Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve encompasses nearly 1.6 million acres of protected desert habitat in southeastern California, bridging the Mojave Desert and the Great Basin. The preserve's geography is marked by expansive sand dunes, rugged mountains, volcanic cinder cones, and dense Joshua tree forests, providing an exceptional setting for desert ecology. The area supports a variety of wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep, roadrunners, and rare desert tortoises. Historically, the preserve contains remnants of old railroad towns, mining operations, and the historic Kelso Depot, reflecting the human history shaped by transportation and resource extraction in the desert. Recreational opportunities abound—hiking trails traverse volcanic features and historic sites, camping areas provide star-studded night skies, and scenic drives offer access to iconic landscapes such as the Kelso Dunes and the Mitchell Caverns. This preserve is a destination for solitude and wide-open spaces, appealing to those interested in desert flora and fauna, geology, and cultural history. Its remote location ensures a quieter, undisturbed experience far from urban centers.