Old Station - Subway Cave Lava Tube
Highway 89Old Station, California 96071
Shasta County
Phone: 530-336-5521
Formed just less than 20,000 years ago, the Subway Cave was formed by lava that flowed in large volumes from a series of fissures within Lassen National Forest. The rock above cooled and became solid while lava continued to run through what is now the cave. It's a really cool adventure that only takes a few minutes to walk through but you'll probably want to do it at least twice!
How to get there:
The entrance to the park is 1/4 mile north of the Highway 89 and Highway 44 junction. You get little notice before the turn-off so look for signs for the Subway Cave Campground which is located right across the street.
Camping info:
The Subway Cave Campground has 17 sites available with no reservation needed. The campground also offers Hat Creek fishing access with day-use parking.
More info:
Bring a jacket as it is cool in the cave and you'll need a flashlight to see. The ground is uneven and rocky although easy to navigate. Call the number to the park for more information.
Things to do in the area:
Up Highway 89 north, you'll find the Hat Creek Radio Observatory and further north, Burney Falls. Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park is also a cool place to visit although only reachable by boat. Check out our Trails section for some great hikes in the area.
*Click on the photos below to enlarge them