The Mojave National Preserve has varied desert landscapes including seas of black volcanic rock and tall classic desert sand dunes, with an abundance of free camping where its just you, the wildlife and the dark desert skies.
It also contains one of the few state parks in Southern California: Providence Mountains State Recreation Area, and it’s nestled in those mountains is a hidden gem that is a great Saturday or Sunday getaway for locals who want to get out of town… you just have to plan ahead.
Mitchell Caverns used to be a private resort before the previous owners handed it over to the state recreation area in 1972. They consist of two main caves with impressively lit caverns full of limestone cave formations created through millions of years of water working its way through the mountain. The caves are only accessible through a guided tour – that’s the planning ahead part – but it’s worth it. I went a few weeks back and the two hour cave tour was charming and informative with an earnest and friendly State Park Ranger and about ten other folks. The tours tend to sell out so you’ll need to plan ahead and get tickets early.
If you’ve been underground in the last year and wear the same clothes or shoes – prepare to disinfect them to prevent the spread of the fungal bat killer called white nose syndrome.
Right around the Mitchell Caverns are camping spots with stunning views of the preserve as well as a few hiking loops that run into the rocks and foothills, showing off the incredible difference in desert biodiversity that the Mojave National Preserve has to offer.
You can find more about the Mojave National Preserve and Mitchell Caverns at their website, and if you have a daytrip that you think deserves attention, email me.
