Fossil Falls, Archaeological site and waterfall in Coso Range, California
The black basalt formations at Fossil Falls create a deep chasm with polished surfaces shaped by ancient water flows from the Owens River.
Between 400,000 and 10,000 years ago, volcanic activity from the Coso Volcanic Field and Red Hill produced basalt flows that formed the current landscape.
Native American tribes, including the Coso People, established camps near the falls to harvest resources and create tools from obsidian found in the area.
Located 36 miles northwest of Ridgecrest, the site features an 11-site campground with water, restrooms, picnic tables, and designated parking areas.
The smooth, circular potholes in the basalt rock were created by spinning granite rocks caught in water eddies during periods of glacial runoff.
Location: California
GPS coordinates: 35.96995,-117.90896
Latest update: May 14, 2025 18:25
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