Lawrence Canyon

Lawrence Canyon in Oceanside, CA is a strange little slice of nature tucked away between freeways and neighborhoods. Various fossils have been found here throughout the years including wild horse teeth, megalodon teeth, mammoth bones, and more.  Evidence of water previously through this area can be seen by the shells that litter the sand.

When you enter your canyon, look to your left for the blocks that some taggers have hit as well as some other old remnants.  There is a small hole here that was likely a previous dig site.  As you take the trail around toward the open field, you'll see the cave up on the hill behind you. For such a small area, there is a lot of different geology here it seems and a somewhat diverse population of animals and insects.

 A hill covered with smooth rocks.

 Remains of the road.

This cave was vacant when I checked, but the locals use it. Proceed with caution!

 Most likely this spot was used as part of a dig for fossils.

Bones! Fossils?

Dangers

Vagrants, garbage piles, bees, snakes.  This area is not maintained by the city or the land owner and local homeless often come here to sleep or drink.  Bring a friend or two with you if you are going to explore. In the area by the broken road, there are bees in the tubes near the bottom. Avoid the bushes on left aside from the area with the blocks.  This is where much of the trash is as well as where most of the vagrants sleep.

 Summary

Lawrence Canyon is privately owned and there has been interest by developers over the years as well as a recent push to preserve the canyon.  As the future of this area is up in the air, I'd suggest checking it out sooner than later if you're looking for a peaceful, short walk. Go during the day with a friend.