Coso Volcanic Field, Volcanic field in Inyo County, California, US.
The Coso Volcanic Field is a vast volcanic region in Inyo County dotted with numerous domes and craters across the terrain. The landscape displays a rugged, rocky topography with evidence of volcanic activity visible throughout.
The field originated from volcanic eruptions, with the most recent known activity forming Volcano Peak roughly 40.000 years ago. This long geological history demonstrates repeated volcanic cycles unfolding over hundreds of thousands of years.
The Coso people historically extracted obsidian from this volcanic field to craft tools and points for hunting. This practice reveals a deep relationship between Native communities and the land that shaped their survival for millennia.
Access to the area is limited because active geothermal plants operate here for power generation. Visitors should check ahead about which sections are open to the public and take appropriate safety precautions.
The subsurface holds a partially molten rock zone that creates hot springs, steam vents, and boiling mud pots at the surface. These geothermal features reveal the intense internal heat that continues to activate the ground.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
