About Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark
OverviewAmboy Crater, formed of ash and cinders, is 250 feet high and 1,500 feet in diameter. It is situated in one of the youngest volcanic fields in the United States. The site offers picnic tables, restroom facilities, hiking trail to the rim with rest stations along the way, and an ADA ramada overlook for viewing. Amboy Crater was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1973 and is recognized for its visual and geological significance. Amboy Crater is an example of a very symmetrical volcanic cinder cone. There is a breach on the west side of the crater where basaltic lava poured out over a vast area of 24 square miles, which contains lava lakes, collapsed lava tubes and sinks, spatter cones and massive flows of basalt. Amboy Crater lies about halfway between Barstow and Needles (about 66 miles from each) off Historic Route 66 National Trails Highway.Before You GoAmboy Crater and surrounding area are unique volcanic environments where temperatures can get very hot. Make sure to pack plenty of water and check the local weather before your trip. National Weather Service forecast for Amboy Crater and surrounding areas.
How to Get There
From Needles, CA, take I-40 west approx. 65 miles to Kelbaker Road. Exit southbound on Kelbaker Road and drive approx. 10 miles to National Trails Highway. Turn left on National Trails Highway and drive approx. 8 miles to Crater Road. Turn left onto Crater Road. An entrance kiosk will be on your left hand side.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark
Heading to Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark?
No central reservation system listed for Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14854) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark?
From Needles, CA, take I-40 west approx. 65 miles to Kelbaker Road. Exit southbound on Kelbaker Road and drive approx. 10 miles to National Trails Highway. Turn left on National Trails Highway and drive approx. 8 miles to Crater Road. Turn left onto Crater Road. An entrance kiosk will be on your left hand side.
How do I contact Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark?
You can reach the park at phone: 760-326-7000 or email: BLM_CA_Web_NE@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
