Lava Beds National Monument, CA

Lava Beds National Monument in the northeastern section of California, features over 700 lava tube caves, and result from the many eruptions of the Medicine Lake Volcano over the last 500,000 years. Molten lava can be as hot as 2000 degrees Fahrenheit.  There are dozens of caves open for exploration, many with ladders and steps to help visitors to easily access them.

 

Lava Tubes in California's Mojave National Preserve

 

The Lava Tubes in the Mojave Desert south of Baker, CA are impressive.  In order to experience them, first you must descend into an open chamber via a ladder.  The light streaming in from different angles, depending on the time of day, is dramatic.