Lava Butte

Lava Butte is a cinder cone rising 500 feet (150 meters) above the forest floor, with a crater nearly 160 feet (50 meters) deep at its northern summit. Basalt flows extend westward from the base, covering the surrounding landscape with dark volcanic rock.

The cone formed around 7,000 years ago during a period of volcanic activity that sent lava flowing toward the Deschutes River. This flow created Lake Benham when it blocked the river's course.

The United States Forest Service established a fire lookout tower on the summit in 1931, marking the beginning of continuous monitoring of the surrounding forest lands.

A paved road leads to the summit, where visitors can walk around the rim and view the crater and surrounding volcanic field. Interpretive panels explain the geology and volcanic processes that shaped the area.

In 1966, NASA brought 22 astronauts here to train for lunar missions because the landscape resembles the moon's surface. The volcanic terrain provided a realistic setting for practicing moon landing procedures.

GPS coordinates: 43.91761,-121.35593

Latest update: December 6, 2025 11:00