Mojave National Preserve - California

Address:2701 Barstow Road
Barstow, California
Tel: (760) 252-6100

Joshua Tree forests, volcanic formations such as Hole-in-the-Wall, and rustic plants and wildlife dot this rugged desert terrain. While a scenic drive may do it for some, many visitors like to truly get lost in the desert solace through a wilderness hike or climb. If you visit in the spring, you'll want to be ready with your camera to photograph the exquisite wildflowers sprouting up from the desert. The towering Kelso Dunes, which are actually composed of five different sets of dunes, offer a very unique hiking experience.

Mojave Desert experiences change with the seasons. Infrequent winter snows sparkle on the mountains. With enough moisture, spring wildflowers carpet the desert with vivid colors. Summers are hot, so adventurers head for the higher elevations such as Mid-Hills and the New York Mountains. The cooler temperatures of fall mark hunting season. A network of dirt roads provides year round opportunities to explore by four-wheel drive vehicle.