Mitchell Caverns
| Mitchell Caverns | |
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| Location | San Bernardino County, California, United States |
| Coordinates | 34°56′27″N 115°30′52″W / 34.9408247°N 115.5144356°WCoordinates: 34°56′27″N 115°30′52″W / 34.9408247°N 115.5144356°W |
| Elevation | 4,300 feet (1,300 m) |
| Geology | Solutional cave |
| Access | Show cave, closed |
| Designated | 1975 |
The Mitchell's Caverns, within the Mitchell Caverns Natural Preserve, are a trio of limestone caves, located on the east side of the Providence Mountains at an elevation of 4,300 feet (1,300 m), within the Providence Mountains State Recreation Area. They are located in the Mojave Desert, at the north-western end of Essex Road, off of Interstate 40 (Needles Freeway) in San Bernardino County, California.
The caverns were created during the epoch, when ground water with a high carbonic acid content ate into the surrounding marble and sedimentary limestone. Stalactites, stalagmites, and other cave formations were formed from calcium carbonate left by dripping mineral water. For many years the caves were thought to be "dead", that is, the formations were no longer growing. However, recent studies have found some signs of life.
Numerous paleontological and archaeological finds have been made in and around the caverns. Scientists have found the remains of several prehistoric animals, including a sloth. The caverns were a sacred place for the Chemehuevi Indians, and a number of tools and fire pits have been found. The Chemihuevi knew the caves as "the eyes of the mountain" due to their easily spotted dual entrances located near the top of the mountain.
The caverns are named after Jack Mitchell, who owned and operated the caves from 1934 to 1954 as a tourist attraction and rest stop for travelers on nearby U.S. Route 66. Mitchell also held mining rights to the area and dug several prospect holes and tunnels, some of which are still visible.
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