Mojave Lava Tubes

My husband and I love to explore the area surrounding Las Vegas, and we have recently taken a couple trips to Mojave National Preserve, a 1.9 million acre park located just a short drive south of town.
On our last visit, we decided to check out the Lava Tubes. While the Lava Tubes are within the preserve, finding them can be a little difficult. Aiken Mine Road (the dirt road that leads to the tubes) is unmarked, we found by keeping track of how many miles we had driven past Kelso Depot (it’s 15 miles from the Depot).
Despite what the website said, 4 wheel drive wasn’t necessary when we went, however there are washes that cross Aiken Mine Road, so after rain the roads may get washed out. After traveling about 5 miles down the dirt road you come to a old horse corral, which is where you park and start the very short hike to the tubes.
There is a very stable ladder that leads into the tube, which is fairly small and can make you feel a little claustrophobic, if you are prone to it. Even if you are, it’s worth climbing into the tube for a few minutes just for the experience. If you aren’t bothered by claustrophobia, the main chamber is a very interesting geological area to check out. Bring a flashlight and watch your head!
I feel very blessed to live in a part of the country that has such beautiful and interesting areas to experience!

We were surprised by all of the signage that pointed us to the lava tubes. (they don’t exist) I kind of knew where they were before I arrived but it was getting dark and we needed to set up camp. The tubes are very easy, fun and you get to see some nice simple stuff.

If you’re out camping and exploring in the Mojave Desert, the Lava Tubes are definitely worth the drive and hike.
The tubes are not maintained by the Park Service, but enough people go there on a regular basis to confirm its safe enough to enter, and the ladder going down is very sturdy.
Once inside the tubes, there is enough room to stand up and walk around (except for a small portion that you need to crawl under). There are a few air openings, and right around sunset as the light shines through, standing under them and taking a few photos is great.