Mojave National Preserve
Overview
Rose-colored sand dunes, volcanic cinder cones, Joshua tree forests, and mile-high mountains are all part of the scene at Mojave National Preserve. Located in the heart of the Mojave Desert, this new park was established in 1994 through the California Desert Protection Act. The Preserve encompasses 1.6 million-acres of mountains, jumble rocks, desert washes, and dry lakes; outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the opportunity for solitude here not easily found at other southern California parks. Plant and animal life varies by elevation. Desert tortoises burrow in creosote bush flats, while the black and yellow Scott's oriole nests in Joshua trees higher up the slopes. Mule deer and bighorn sheep roam among pinyon pine and juniper in the Preserve's many mountain ranges. 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; hikers and campers explore 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 offer year round opportunities to explore by 4-wheel drive vehicle.
Activities
Bicycling
Bike trails may be available; please contact park services for more information.
Auto/Motorcycle
If you plan to drive between Las Vegas and Los Angeles and have even an hour to spare, you can at least sample some of Mojave National Preserve's spectacular scenery. Heading northeast toward Las Vegas, exit I-15 at Kelbaker Road in Baker, Calif. Travel south for 34 miles past cinder cones and lava flows to Kelso. The Kelso Dunes are visible in the distance. Be sure to stop at the Kelso Depot Visitor Center. From Kelso, turn north on Kelso-Cima Road and travel along the Providence Mountains. You'll see more Joshua trees as you gain elevation up this easy grade. The Cima Store, 19-miles from Kelso, sells cold drinks and snacks. At Cima, bear right onto Morning Star Mine Road for a ride up the Ivanpah Valley. After 22-miles, turn left on the Nipton Road for a four mile drive back to I-15 just south of Primm, Nev.
Camping
Mojave National Preserve is a camper's paradise. Developed campgrounds, roadside camping, and backpacking offer opportunities for individuals and groups of diverse ages, interests, and skills.
Climbing
Climbing is allowed.
Hiking
Although there are few established hiking trails, abandoned dirt roads, washes, and ridge lines offer an abundance of cross-country hiking opportunities.
Horseback Riding
Horses and riders are welcome in Mojave National Preserve! Horses and/or other pack animals (llamas and mules) are permitted on all trails, backcountry roads, and open country (including wilderness areas) within the preserve.
Hunting
Hunting is permitted in accordance with California Department of Fish & Game (DFG) regulations. A California Hunting License is required; additional permits and tags may apply. Please be prepared to present your hunting license and/or tags if requested by an NPS park ranger or state game warden.
Picnicking
There are picnic opportunities throughout the park.
Directions
Driving
The Preserve is easily reached via I-15 or I-40 east of Barstow, CA, and west of Needles, CA and Las Vegas, NV. There are six freeway exits that provide visitor access.
Flying
The nearest airports are in Ontario, CA (140 miles from the western boundary of the Preserve) and Las Vegas, NV (60 miles from the eastern boundary of the Preserve).
Phone Numbers
Primary
(419) 368-4712Links
Official URL
http://www.nps.gov/moja- Login or register to post comments
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