Lavic Lake volcanic field

Lavic Lake volcanic field is an area with four separate cinder cones rising from broad lava plains made of dark basaltic rock. The landscape consists of hardened lava flows in various shapes and patterns spread across an expansive terrain.

Pisgah Crater within this field experienced eruptions spanning thousands of years, with the oldest phase occurring roughly 25,000 years ago. These eruptions created the lava formations and cones that shape the landscape today.

Mining operations at Pisgah Crater supplied black sand for the film 'Letters from Iwo Jima', connecting this site to cinema history. Local sand became part of a larger creative vision, linking the desert landscape to storytelling beyond the region.

The best way to reach this area is from Interstate 40, which runs between Barstow and Ludlow. Visitors should bring plenty of water since the terrain is extremely dry and exposed to desert heat.

SPJ Cave within the lava field extends deep underground through hollow passages and tunnels carved by flowing lava. Visitors can explore these underground channels and observe how volcanic rock formed and changed over time.

Location: California

GPS coordinates: 34.74639,-116.37500

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:04