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Map Satellite Kennedy Table Mountain is the northernmost of a series of basalt-capped mesas in the region (see Big Table Mountain). These "table mountains" were formed some 9.5 million years ago, during the Pliocene, when lava poured down the ancient channel of the San Joaquin River. The basalt is underlain by up to 100 meters (320 feet) of interbedded gravel and rhyolitic tuff, dating perhaps to the Miocene.
Vegetation is primarily grassland. However, there is a marshy area which may harbor a disjunct population of the rare Gratiola heterosepala.
Animal life is representative of the central Sierran foothills. Several species of raptors have bred here.
Integrity: There are jeep trails and various buildings in the area. The mountain has been grazed, severely in portions.
Use: Private
January 1980
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2008 Steven Louis Hartman
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