Mojave Narrows Regional Park

Amidst the arid landscapes that the city of Victorville is known for, lies a surprising natural oasis — Mojave Narrows Regional Park. This unique destination in the USA covers 886 acres, where the underground Mojave River rises to the surface, creating a lush green zone in the middle of the desert. The park is framed by majestic granite walls and rocky "gates," which create a sense of seclusion and peace.

The heart of the park is a 50-acre lake, bordered by dense thickets of willows and cottonwoods. Thanks to the constant water supply, a rich ecosystem has flourished here: the park is home to more than 250 species of birds and resident beavers, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Visitors can find shady meadows and quiet channels that seem almost surreal against the backdrop of the surrounding sands.

This park is more than just a place for a walk; it is a true living natural monument of San Bernardino County. Located along the historical river, it serves as a wildlife refuge and offers travelers a rare chance to see a real desert oasis in all its diversity.

To plan your visit and clarify details, you can use the official contact information for the park. It is recommended to save the address in your navigator in advance, as cellular connection can be unstable in some parts of the desert.

Everyone will find something to enjoy in this park, whether it’s active sports or quiet contemplation. One of the main draws is fishing on the large lake, available year-round. Hiking fans can explore numerous trails, while equestrian enthusiasts can take advantage of specially designated horse trails that wind through picturesque groves.

For family outings, the park features picnic and barbecue areas, modern playgrounds, and even tennis courts. The disc golf course is particularly popular, combining the thrill of the game with a hike through rugged terrain. If you visit in the spring, you’ll catch the park in full bloom when the meadows are covered in a vibrant carpet of wildflowers, and in the summer, you can enjoy water activities, including the popular paddleboarding.

The changing seasons bring fresh experiences: in the autumn, the park hosts themed haunted hay rides, while winter is ideal for peaceful observation of migratory birds. With over 1,500 animal species recorded in the park, be sure to bring your binoculars — the chances of spotting rare desert and wetland inhabitants are very high here.

The easiest way to reach this natural getaway is by car. If you are driving from Los Angeles, the journey takes about an hour and a half along I-15 North towards Las Vegas. Take exit 153A onto Mojave Drive, then turn right, and after a mile, turn left onto Amargosa Road. The final stretch of the journey follows Yates Road, where the park entrance will be visible on the left side.

For those who prefer public transport, Victor Valley Transit Authority buses are available. The stop is within walking distance of the main entrance, although it's wise to check current schedules in advance. If you are staying in the city center, a convenient option is a taxi or ride-sharing service, which can get you to the park gates in 10–15 minutes.

Interestingly, the park is located along the historic Frost Santa Fe railway route. Travelers by car often notice BNSF freight trains passing nearby, which adds a distinct American West flavor to the trip.

The lands that today comprise Mojave Narrows Regional Park have a deep history, rooted in the times when the ancient Mojave River was the primary source of life for Native American tribes. For centuries, this oasis served as a vital stopover, providing water and food amidst the harsh desert sands.

During the era of Western expansion, this territory became part of the famous Old Spanish Trail. It served as a true sanctuary for pioneers, ranchers, and migrants seeking a path to the Pacific coast. The presence of permanent water made this location strategically important for cattle drives and resting caravans.

Before becoming a public park, the land was privately owned and known as North Verde Ranch, and later as Kemper Campbell Ranch. San Bernardino County purchased the territory in the late 1960s to preserve the unique ecosystem and transform it into a recreational area for future generations.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of the park, it is worth allowing 3 to 6 hours for your visit. This is ample time for a leisurely stroll along the nature trails, some bird watching, and a small picnic on the lakeshore.

If your plans include fishing or a full-day outing with a large group and a barbecue, you can easily spend the entire day in the park. Active recreation enthusiasts often spend 1–2 hours just on the disc golf course or a horseback ride, so plan your time according to your interests.

For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the nature of this desert oasis, the park offers camping areas. In this case, stays can extend to 24 hours or more, allowing you to witness a picturesque sunrise and watch the sunset behind the granite cliffs.

The park is open to visitors daily, making it a great option for a getaway on both weekdays and weekends. Standard operating hours are from 07:30 AM to 05:00 PM. This schedule allows visitors to catch both the soft morning light and the golden hour before sunset.

Please note that hours may vary on holidays, and access to certain camping areas or sports facilities may be seasonal. Before your trip, it is recommended to check the official website of San Bernardino County Regional Parks to ensure there are no temporary restrictions or closures.

A visit to the park can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites in the vicinity. The city offers both historical landmarks and modern entertainment venues that help visitors better understand the culture and lifestyle of this part of California.

Within a few minutes' drive, you will find museums dedicated to America's legendary roads, as well as cozy establishments to relax in after an active day in nature. Below is a list of nearby attractions: