Amboy Crater
Amboy, CA
A near-perfect cinder cone rising from a black lava field next to Route 66. The trail to the rim is exposed; go early in the morning and carry plenty of water.
- Nearest town
- Amboy, CA
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 34.5448, -115.7917
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually March–April and October–December. Still fine, with some compromises, in January–February, May and September. Hot in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Kelbaker BouldersCampsite16 mi from Amboy Crater
- Van Winkle MountainCampsite19 mi from Amboy Crater
- Hidden HillsCampsite20 mi from Amboy Crater
- Kelso Dunes MineCampsite24 mi from Amboy CraterFree
All campsites in California · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Amboy Crater?
Amboy Crater is in Amboy, CA, at GPS 34.5448, -115.7917. It is about 32 mi from Twentynine Palms.
Can you camp near Amboy Crater?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Kelbaker Boulders, about 16 mi away; within 25 mi there are 4 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Amboy Crater?
Amboy Crater is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Mojave National Preserve: dunes, depot and cinder cones.
What is there to see near Amboy Crater?
Places worth a stop nearby: Roy's Motel & Café (3 mi), Kelso Dunes (25 mi), Kelso Depot (33 mi) and Jumbo Rocks Campground (41 mi).
When is the best time to visit Amboy Crater?
The most pleasant months are usually March–April and October–December. Still fine, with some compromises, in January–February, May and September. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)