Issue 24, 2014 (PDF, 2.9MB)

Home , Kelbaker Road, Kelso Dunes, Lanfair Valley, Mojave Road, New York Mountains, Piute Range

National Park Service Park News & Guide U.S. Department of the Interior

Issue 24 / 2014 Mojave National Preserve

Refortifying Fort Piute Welcome to Mojave!

STONE WALLS ARE ALL THAT REMAIN OF FORT PIUTE, WHICH WAS BUILT Cooler temperatures make winter a during the 1860s by the US Army in the Piute Range near the east perfect time to visit the Mojave Desert, boundary of Mojave National Preserve. The old stone walls won’t and the softening light as the sun passes remain standing without periodic maintenance. They have been lower in the sky offers a bolder, warmer reinforced a number of times over the years. Thanks to the efforts palette for desert photographers. of a dedicated group of volunteers, this work was completed again Spring often brings splashes of color as in April 2013, fortifying this distinctive reminder of our history for wildflowers bloom after winter rains. We another decade. have several photography exhibitions planned for the winter and spring months in the Desert Light Art Gallery To complete the project, Mojave National Preserve worked with at the Kelso Depot Visitor Center. These HistoriCorps and Cornerstones Community Partnerships, public- exhibits run from two to three months, private partnerships formed to save and sustain historic sites. Group so stop in often to see what’s new. leaders used the project as a training session. Master stone mason Terry Alexander from HistoriCorps and Mojave National Preserve Mojave’s landscape varies tremendously archaeologist David Nichols trained a group of ten volunteers in as you travel around the preserve, and techniques used to stabilize the masonry walls using earthen mortar I encourage you to take short walks in mined onsite. various areas. Inside this guide, you’ll find information on visiting the Kelso Volunteers Christa and Tony Torres reported on the training: Dunes, Cinder Cones & Lava Beds, and the Joshua tree woodland on Cima We located, evaluated, and mixed earthen mortar from local Dome. On the east side of the preserve, campgrounds and hiking trails are avail- sources. This meant finding good sources of sand, clay, and water able for those who have more time to along Piute Creek and then carrying the heavy sandbags and water explore. buckets up a steep embankment to the ruins located about 100 me- ters away. The next step was to make the “mud” or mix the ingredi- Over 1,000 miles of dirt roads await desert explorers in street-legal vehicles, providing access to old mining sites, Piute Springs has a long history springs, and roadside camps. Some routes require high-clearance vehicles, and road conditions change rapidly during rainy weather, so check with a ranger before heading out.

If you would like to learn more about what to see and do, talk to the rangers at Kelso Depot Visitor Center or Hole- in-the-Wall Information Center, visit top: Volunteers at work rebedding and repointing the stone walls of Fort Piute. our website, or call the headquarters bottom: The group shows off their work. information desk. Websites and phone numbers are listed on page two. ents for the mortar. After a period of experimentation, a mix of one part clay and three parts sand was chosen as the best compromise of strength and pliability. Stephanie R. Dubois Superintendent With careful observation and planning, we ensured that stones were Long before the US Army came to Piute Spring, the Mojave replaced in their original locations. We concentrated our efforts on and Chemehuevi Tribes lived off this land for countless the horizontal surfaces of the stone walls, which ranged from five to generations. Numerous artifacts and petroglyphs scattered six stone courses high (about four feet). The top surface had been throughout the Piute Creek area testify to the time they heavily weathered, and much of the mortar was in poor condition. spent here. Old, loose mortar was raked from the joints. Stones were rebedded, As originally built in 1867 by men of Company D, 9th U.S. or set back in place using a layer of mortar. The finish work is called Infantry, the fort had walls up to eight feet high, with gun repointing, which involves placing additional mortar into the cracks ports and a roof. and smoothing for a neat appearance after the stones have been set. When the horizontal sections were complete, we then moved to the Fort Piute was one of many small forts and outposts along vertical portions of the interior and exterior walls. Essential Information…2 the Mojave Road linking California and Arizona, providing Exploring Mojave...3 a military presence to protect travelers and mail routes. The Several historic artifacts were observed mixed into the existing outpost was staffed only briefly, until the end of 1868, when mortar: a percussion cap from a rifle, a small metal buckle, and an Features...4 & 5 the mail shifted to another route. With its location near the embossed metal button. abundant waters of Piute Spring and within protected can- Camping…6 yons, the fort served as a resting stop for travelers for many We hope that our experience—and all the blood, sweat, and tears it years after. Hiking…7 provided to us—will ensure that Fort Piute will endure for another ten years. Mojave National Preserve Map…8 National Park Service Desert Safety Tips U.S. Department of the Interior The main cause of death in Mojave Flash Floods Dangerous Animals More people die in single-car accidents While driving, be alert for water running Never place your hands or feet where you due to speeding than by any other means. in washes and across dips in the road. cannot see first. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, or Mojave National Preserve Reduce your speed. When hiking and camping, avoid canyons black widow spiders might be sheltered there. and washes during rain storms, and be Established in 1994, Mojave National Do not depend on a GPS navigation prepared to move to higher ground. Mine Hazards Preserve encompasses 1.6 million acres ranging in elevation from 800’ near system Never enter a mine. They are unmaintained Baker to 7,929’ at Clark Mountain. GPS maps of remote areas, including Dress properly for hiking and unstable, and you might encounter Although most of the park lies in the Mojave National Preserve, are notoriously Wear loose-fitting clothing and sturdy pockets of bad air or poisonous gas. Stay Mojave Desert, the southeast section unreliable. Carry a folding map. shoes that protect your feet from rocks out, and stay alive! grades into the Sonoran Desert, and and cactus. Use sunscreen and wear a hat. elements of the Great Basin Desert are Carry and drink plenty of water Carry a light jacket as temperatures drop In Case of Emergency found at higher elevations east of the Carry a minimum of a gallon per person dramatically when the sun goes down. Cell phones do not work in many areas. Granite, Providence, and New York per day in your vehicle even if you are just Try moving uphill to get a signal. To call mountains. passing through. You will need it in an Avoid hiking in extreme heat for help, dial 911 or the Federal Interagency emergency. Carry more if you plan to be Do not hike in the low elevations when Communications Center at 909-383-5651. active. Fluid and electrolyte levels must be temperatures are high; the mountains are After calling, stay with your car until help Newspaper Editor balanced, so have salty foods or “sports cooler in summer. comes. Norma Sosa drinks” handy as well. left: Carefully assess conditions before driving Mailing Address Watch for signs of trouble on hot days across a flooded roadway. Backcountry Travel If you feel dizzy or nauseated, or if you de- 2701 Barstow Road center: Hikers, carry and drink plenty of water. Barstow, CA 92311 Hikers, backpackers, and those traveling velop a headache, get out of the sun imme- Salty snacks or sports drinks keep electrolytes on dirt roads need to be self-reliant and diately, and drink water or sports drinks. in balance. Web and E-mail well-prepared. Plan ahead, carry detailed Dampen clothing to lower body tempera- right: Stay on trails to avoid unexpected www.nps.gov/moja maps, and let someone know your plans. ture. Be alert for symptoms in others. encounters with rattlesnakes. For e-mail, click “Contact Us”

Park Headquarters ph: 760-252-6100 fax: 760-252-6174

National Park Service employees care for America’s 401 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities.

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Essential Information

Dates and Hours of Operation Pets The preserve is always open. Information centers (see below) maintain regular hours of operation. Although not allowed inside information centers, pets are welcome elsewhere. They must be leashed and never left unattended. Dogs used during hunting activities must be under the owner’s Fees and Reservations control at all times. Pet excrement must be collected and disposed of in garbage receptacles. There are no entrance fees. See page 6 for information about campground reservations and fees. Permits Information Centers Permits are required for all organized events, group events (more than 15 individuals or 7 vehicles), Three information centers provide orientation, information, and trip-planning advice. Park rangers and commercial activities such as filming. Fees apply. Proof of insurance and posting of a bond are on duty. Western National Parks Association (WNPA) bookstores offer books, maps, and more. might also be required. Call 760-252-6107 or visit www.nps.gov/moja for more information. Kelso Depot Visitor Center Located 34 miles south of Baker, Calif. on Kelbaker Road. Open Friday through Tuesday, 9 a.m.–5 Hunting and Firearms p.m. Closed Wednesday and Thursday. Hunting is permitted in accordance with state regulations. All hunting activities require a license; Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center additional permits and tags might apply. Visit the California Department of Fish & Wildlife website Located near Hole-in-the-Wall Campground. Winter hours (October–April): Friday through Sunday, at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/ for more information. 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. Summer hours (May - September) Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Headquarters Information Center Target shooting or “plinking” is prohibited. All firearms transported within the preserve must be un- Located at 2701 Barstow Road, Barstow, Calif. Open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–4:00 p.m. loaded, cased, and broken down, except during lawful hunting activities. No shooting is permitted within 1/2 mile of developed areas, including campgrounds, information centers, Kelso Dunes, Fort Food Piute, Sweeney Granite Mountains Desert Research Center, and the Desert Studies Center at Zzyzx. Limited snacks are available in the Western National Parks Association stores at Kelso Depot Visitor Center and Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center, but there is no restaurant. Restaurants are located Collecting and Vandalism along I-15 at Barstow and Baker, Calif. and along I-40 at Ludlow, Fenner, and Needles, Calif. Disturbing, defacing, or collecting plants, animals, rocks, historic or archeological objects is prohibited. Leave these resources as you find them for everyone to enjoy. Metal detectors are not allowed. Water Drinking water is available only at Kelso Depot Visitor Center, Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center, Private Property Hole-in-the-Wall, Black Canyon and Mid-Hills campgrounds. Private inholdings are found throughout the preserve. Please respect the rights of our neighbors. It is your responsibility to obtain permission before hunting, hiking, or entering private property. Gasoline There are no gasoline stations within Mojave National Preserve. Gasoline can be purchased along Cattle and Fences I–40 at Needles, Fenner, and Ludlow, Calif., along I–15 at Baker, Calif., the Cima Road exit, and Most grazing within Mojave National Preserve occurs on public land. This land is open to you to Primm, Nev., and along U.S. 95 at Searchlight and at the Nev.163 junction south of Cal-Nev-Ari, Nev. explore, but please don’t disturb cattle, fences, or water tanks. Leave gates as you find them. Watch for cattle on roadways. Lodging There are no motels within Mojave National Preserve. Lodging may be available in Barstow, Nipton, Firewood & Campfires Ludlow, Needles, Baker, and Twentynine Palms, Calif., and in Primm and Searchlight, Nev. Wood is scarce in the desert. Cutting or collecting any wood, including downed wood, is prohibited. All firewood, including kindling, must be brought in. Firewood might be available for purchase Bicycles at Baker, Fenner, Needles or Nipton, Calif. Campfires are allowed in campground fire rings and Bicycles are allowed in parking areas, on paved roads, and on existing, open dirt roads. Bicycles are other established sites. To minimize your impact, use a firepan and pack out the ashes. Please do not allowed in Wilderness Areas or for cross-country travel. not leave fires smoldering or unattended.

2 Mojave National Preserve Exploring Mojave nps / linda slater Scenic Cima Road connects I-15 with Cima, Calif., traversing the world’s largest concentration of Joshua trees.

Avenues to Adventure Dirt Road Driving nps collection Mojave National Preserve is vast. At 1.6 million acres, it is the third-largest unit of the National Park System in the contiguous United States. While much of Mojave’s wild and historic splendor is avail- Prepare Your Vehicle able only to those who travel its trails and unmaintained roads, the primary roads of the preserve Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition: check tires, oil, and gas gauge. offer endless opportunities for exploration (see map on page 8). Kelbaker Road Cima Road For emergencies, carry tools, tire jack, towrope, extra water, and fluids for your vehicle. A 56-mile paved road stretching from I-15 at About 26 miles east of Baker, Calif., the paved Know the Rules of the Road Baker, Calif. in the north to I-40 east of Ludlow, Cima Road connects I-15 with Cima, Calif., 16 All vehicles operating within Mojave National Preserve must be street-legal in accordance Calif. in the south, Kelbaker Road winds past miles to the southeast. with California DMV requirements, including current registration and tags, lights and turn cinder cones, lava flows, Kelso Depot, Kelso signals, and valid insurance. California “Green Sticker” and “Red Sticker” programs are not Dunes, and the Granite Mountains. Cima Dome & Joshua Tree Woodland recognized within the preserve. Self-guiding trail, no water. Cinder Cones & Lava Flows The near-perfect symmetry of Cima Dome rises Off-pavement travel is allowed only on existing, open dirt roads. Do not travel cross-coun- No signs or services. 1,500 feet above the surrounding desert and try or create new routes. This rule is strictly enforced; violators will receive citations. Driving About 14 miles southeast of Baker, Kelbaker is home to the world’s largest concentration of in washes is not permitted. Watch for and respect Wilderness Boundary signs; motorized Road traverses a 25,600-acre area of lava flows Joshua trees. The top of the dome is located vehicles and bicycles are not allowed in designated Wilderness Areas. and volcanic cinder cones thought to range west of Cima Road, this unusual geologic fea- in age from 10,000 to 7 million years old. ture is best seen from a distance. Try the view Check Road Conditions In 1973, the area was designated as Cinder looking northwest from Cedar Canyon Road, Road conditions vary widely. Dirt roads might be rough, sandy, or muddy, rendering them Cones National Natural Landmark due to its 2.5 miles east of Kelso Cima Road. impassable, and the unprepared motorist could be trapped many miles from help. Watch for scenic beauty and exceptional geological value. cattle, burros, and other wildlife on roadways. Aiken Mine Road (19 miles southeast of Baker, White Cross World War I Memorial Calif.) offers an interesting side trip through Located 12 miles south of I-15 on Cima Road, Not all roads are shown on all maps; traces and illegal shortcuts add to the confusion. Carry a the heart of the area and access to a lava this memorial is owned and operated by the good map, and ask a park ranger for current road conditions. tube. High clearance and four-wheel drive Veterans of Foreign Wars. recommended. Cedar Canyon & Black Kelso Depot Visitor Center Information, exhibits, orientation film, art gal- Canyon Roads Mostly unpaved, the 20-mile Cedar Canyon Zzyzx Road Sand & Mud Driving Tips lery, bookstore, restrooms, water, picnic area. Six miles southwest of Baker on I-15, Zzyzx Open Friday—Tuesday, 9 am to 5 pm. Road connects Kelso Cima Road in the west Road leads 5 miles south into the preserve along •Be sure to carry plenty of drinking water Located 34 miles southeast of Baker, Kelso De- with Ivanpah Road in the east, paralleling (and the western shore of Soda Dry Lake. and emergency supplies. pot began operation in 1924 and served as train sometimes joining) the historic Mojave Road. Black Canyon Road (unpaved north of Hole-in- station, restaurant, and employee housing on Zzyzx/Soda Springs the-Wall) connects Cedar Canyon Road with •Engage four-wheel drive before entering the Los Angeles and Salt Lake route of the Union Self-guiding trail, wayside exhibits, pit toilets, Essex Road, 20 miles to the south. deep sand or mud. Pacific Railroad. Now Mojave National Preserve’s non-potable water, picnic area. principal information center and museum, ex- Historically known as Soda Springs and later Rock House •Don’t gun the engine—this will spin the tensive exhibits describe the cultural and natural renamed Zzyzx (pronounced ZYE-zix), this oasis Loop trail, wayside exhibits, pit toilet, picnic table. tires, dig you in deeper, and could bury history of the preserve. Historically furnished is home to the California State University Desert 5 miles east of Black Canyon Road on Cedar your vehicle to the frame. Smooth, easy rooms offer a glimpse into Kelso’s past. Studies Center. The buildings and pond were Canyon Road. The Rock House is emblematic power is better than too much power; developed in the 1940s by Curtis Springer, who of creative desert building styles. Nearby Rock use low gearing and just enough throttle Kelso Dunes operated a health resort at the site. Zzyzx is open Spring, located along the loop trail, was the site to maintain forward movement. Self-guiding trail, pit toilets, no water. to the public—stroll around Lake Tuendae and About 42 miles southeast of Baker (8 miles of a military outpost along the Mojave Road. along the shore of Soda Dry Lake. Please do not •If you detect a loss of traction, turn the south of Kelso Depot), then 3 miles west on disturb participants when classes are in session. steering wheel rapidly from side-to-side— a graded dirt road. Nearly 700 feet high and Mid Hills this might help to generate traction. covering a 45-square-mile area, the Kelso Campground, trailhead, pit toilets, water. Not Dunes were created over the course of 25,000 recommended for RVs. Nipton, Ivanpah & Lanfair •If your vehicle gets stuck, place solid years by winds carrying sand grains from the About 2 miles west of Black Canyon Road at the north end of Wild Horse Canyon Road, Mid Roads materials (such as floor mats) under the dried Soda Lake and Mojave River Sink located Eleven miles south of Primm, Nev., Nipton Road Hills supports pinyon-juniper woodland habitat. tires to provide traction. to the northwest. The Providence and Granite begins at I-15 and passes through Nipton, Calif., mountains served as barriers that trapped the The effects of a fire that swept through the 11 miles east. Ivanpah Road (only the 10 north- •If you’re really stuck, it’s best to stay blowing sand. The dunes produce a “boom- area in June 2005 are evident, although several ernmost miles paved) heads southeast of Nipton with your vehicle. A stationary, stranded ing” or “singing” sound when sand with the campsites in the popular campground still con- Road, through the Ivanpah and Lanfair valleys, vehicle is much easier to locate than a right moisture content slides down the steep tain shady stands of pinyon pine and juniper. eventually connecting with the paved Lanfair person traveling on foot. Avoid strenuous slopes. Try it for yourself—run down a dune Road and the Fenner Valley. Together stretching Hole-in-the-Wall activity during the heat of the day; stay in slope (but don’t trample vegetation!) to initiate 46 miles, Ivanpah and Lanfair roads connect the Information center, bookstore, campgrounds, the shade of your vehicle. the sound. northern preserve boundary (bordering Nipton picnic area, trailhead, restroom, water, telephone. Road) with the southern near Goffs, Calif. Just north of the junction of Black Canyon and Granite Mountains the south end of Wild Horse Canyon Roads, No signs or services. Hotel Nipton rhyolite cliffs riddled with holes and hollows are An imposing jumble of granite marks the south NPS exhibits; privately operated hotel, store, the backdrop for Hole-in-the-Wall. entrance to the preserve, 50 miles southeast of & campground; for information call 760-856- Baker on Kelbaker Road. Portions of the Granite 2335 or email at [email protected]. Lanfair Valley Mountains lie within the University of Califor- Piute Spring Built in 1910, this charming hotel reflects the No signs or services. Mojave Desert Outpost, a nia’s Desert Research Center; please respect the About 7.4 miles west of U.S. 95 on the un- railroad, ranching, and mining history of the privately-owned campground, is located here. signs that mark the boundary. High clearance marked and unpaved Mojave Road, then 3.1 small community at Nipton. For information call 951-780-3179. and four-wheel drive recommended. miles west on an extremely rough unmarked South of the New York Mountains along Ivan- dirt road. High clearance and four-wheel Caruthers Canyon pah and Lanfair roads, this high valley shelters Clark Mountain drive recommended. Primitive camping, hiking, no signs or services. an impressive Joshua tree forest and was an No signs or services. About 5.5 miles west of Ivanpah Road on New early ranching and homesteading center. From The only portion of Mojave National Preserve Fort Piute and Piute Spring York Mountains Road, then 2.7 miles north on 1893 until 1923, the Nevada Southern Railway north of I-15, Clark Mountain is also its highest Trails, wayside exhibits, no services. an unsigned road, Caruthers Canyon is located ran up the valley from Goffs, providing services point, at 7,929 feet. A relict white fir grove Willows, cottonwoods, and rushes thrive along in the rugged New York Mountains. Surrounded to homesteaders and ranchers in the valley and near the top is one of only three in the Mojave a half-mile section of Piute Creek. Fort Piute (still by mountains rising over 7,500 feet, a botani- to miners in the mountains beyond. While little Desert. Check detailed maps or ask a ranger for visible) was one in a string of military outposts cal “island” of chaparral plants remains from evidence remains of homesteads that once access information. High clearance and four- built along the Mojave Road. Please don’t climb wetter times of the past. High clearance and dotted the valley, tracts of private property still wheel drive recommended. on the foundations or remove anything. four-wheel drive recommended. exist. Please respect the rights of landowners.

Mojave National Preserve 3 Did you see that? By Christina Mills, Park Ranger

FROM SPRING THROUGH FALL, VISITORS ture they need to survive from the leaves, frequently glimpse something small–less seeds, flowers, and occasional bugs that than a foot long and low to the ground– they eat. racing across the roads or trails. When asked to describe the animal’s tail, visitors There are two species of ground squir- often didn’t see one. If the critter was seen rels commonly found in the preserve, the in the campground, chances are it tried white-tailed antelope ground squirrel and to beg food or darted in to grab any food the round-tailed ground squirrel. They are that was dropped on the ground. If folks both about seven to nine inches long, with get a good look at it, they usually say that it tails about two inches long that are usually looked like a chipmunk. curled over their backs when they move. The antelope ground squirrel has stripes But desert chipmunks and rock squir- on its sides; the round-tailed ground rels live in rocky areas with pinyon and squirrel does not. Ground squirrels often The Desert Tortoise- juniper forests. Have you seen many trees dig several burrows for different purpos- or forests in Mojave National Preserve? es, and mounds of dirt mark the entrances That pretty much rules out chipmunks to their tunnels. Many desert animals are Engineer of the Mojave and rock squirrels in most parts of the nocturnal, but ground squirrels are most By Seth Shteir preserve! active during daylight hours. They gener- ally live one to three years in the wild, and THEY ARE THE MOJAVE DESERT’S FOUR-LEGGED but don’t disturb, these amazing animals! Chances are that you saw a ground they serve as food for predators such as engineers, excavating burrows with gi- When people see tortoises, they often squirrel. gopher snakes, rattlesnakes, coyotes, and ant claws. This armor-plated reptile can think the animals need help. They some- hawks. be mistaken for a rock, dines on tender times take the tortoises home or to pre- Ground squirrels are specially adapted to vegetation and flowers, spends most of its serve visitor centers. “The most important arid desert conditions. They dig extensive Ground squirrels can survive in some of life underground, and can survive without thing you can do to protect tortoises is burrows under plants such as creosote. the hottest and driest places on Earth, in- drinking water for more than a year. to enjoy viewing them from a respectful Highly efficient kidneys conserve water, cluding the Mojave Desert in America and distance,” says Linda Slater, Chief of In- so ground squirrels can get all the mois- the Kalahari Desert in Africa. Summer Desert tortoises (Gopherus Agassiz) are terpretation at Mojave National Preserve. found in eastern California, southern “Once tortoises are caught, they cannot Nevada, southwestern Utah, southern be returned to the wild.” Arizona, and parts of Mexico. Once a common desert dweller, it is now listed as Handling a tortoise can cause it to empty a threatened species. The animal’s home its bladder as a self-defense mechanism includes sandy flats and washes, pebble- that can result in a tortoise becoming strewn alluvial fans, and rocky canyons dehydrated. It can also kill them. Han- between 1,000 and 4,000 feet above sea dling of these ancient reptiles by humans level. Almost a million acres of land within can also lead to the spread of a respiratory Mojave National Preserve is suitable tor- tract virus in the population. toise habitat, with the Ivanpah and Fenner Valleys being two of the best locations. Tortoises are an ancient type of reptile that has stood the test of time. But, with Desert tortoises are remarkably adapted so many changes in the desert in recent to life in the extreme temperatures and years, tortoise populations have declined. scant rainfall of the Mojave Desert. Tor- Development in the desert has increased toises are ectothermic, which means they trash and standing water, and this has depend upon the external air and ground inflated populations of ravens and other temperatures, as well as upon their own predators that eat young, soft-shelled des- behavior, to regulate their body tempera- ert tortoises. Cars and off-road vehicles,

Why is the tail down? The white-tailed antelope ground squirrel is most often spotted with ture. With their large front claws, tortoises traveling at high speeds, run over tortoises his tail flipped up over the back. dig burrows for protection from extreme and sometimes crush their burrows. temperatures and wind. The animals cope People also take tortoises home for pets. Mojave Temperatures: daytime temperatures in portions of both with hot summer temperatures by estivat- Renewable energy development, which is Average High / Low deserts regularly exceed 110 degrees for ing, or remaining dormant for periods of likely to increase in the future, degrades months at a time, while the actual ground time, in shallow summer burrows. During habitat and blocks movements by the Granite Zzyzx temperature can reach 140 degrees! dawn and dusk, they patrol the desert for tortoise. Invasive plants out-compete na- Mountain Elevation Elevation tender vegetation, and they sometimes tive species that are important sources of 4,200 feet 930 feet So how do ground squirrels survive in sleep outside in shallow depressions tortoise food. And finally, drought, which such harsh conditions? Instead of hiber- beneath a creosote bush or other vegeta- may become more common due to cli- January 50°F / 36°F 61°F / 34°F nating like other animals do in the winter, tion. During the winter, desert tortoises mate change, decreases annual wildflower

February 54°F / 38°F 69°F / 40°F ground squirrels estivate or sleep lightly hibernate in deep burrows to avoid freezing displays in spring and summer. These are through most of the hot summer months temperatures; this slows their heartbeat and the best food for tortoises. March 59°F / 41°F 74°F / 46°F to conserve energy. While active during breathing to conserve energy and water. the day, they prefer the cooler periods of Scientists seeking to monitor tortoise April 68°F / 48°F 83°F / 53°F dawn and dusk for feeding. If they must Although tortoises don’t listen to televised populations find that this is no easy forage during the heat of the day, ground weather reports, they can sense when task. Tortoises spend most of their time May 75°F / 54°F 93°F / 61°F squirrels leave their burrows for only it’s going to rain. At these times, desert below ground, so counting them is dif- short periods of time then quickly return tortoises clamber to water holes to drink ficult. However, most scientists agree that June 85°F / 63°F 103°F / 70°F to cool down. Squirrel burrows remain at and even scoop out shallow depressions tortoise populations crashed in the early a constant temperature year-round, pro- that can serve as their own personal res- 1990s. Today, their numbers appear to be July 90°F / 67°F 109°F / 77°F tecting them from the extreme highs and ervoirs. Like the camels of the Arabian somewhat stable, but extensive renew- lows of desert temperature variations. Desert, the tortoise is able to store water. able energy development outside preserve August 89°F / 66°F 107°F / 75°F The bladder serves as its water tank, boundaries could precipitate another

September 83°F / 61°F 100°F / 68°F Wait, there it goes again, racing across the recycling water so efficiently that they decrease in tortoise populations. ground in front of you! can go without drinking for more than a October 73°F / 52°F 77°F / 55°F year. Drivers should slow down on desert Rangers and biologists are working to Now that you know what to look for, you roads, especially during rainy weather, as reduce tortoise mortality from a variety of November 59°F / 41°F 73°F / 46°F might see the tail curled over its back and tortoises often drink from puddles along causes. Park rangers have increased road maybe even whether it has stripes or not. the highway after rain storms. patrols to slow traffic speeds. Wildlife December 50°F / 34°F 62°F / 34°F These cute ground squirrels, along with Biologist Neal Darby is keeping a watchful reptiles and birds, are the animals that If you are lucky, you might see a tortoise eye on power lines and railroad bridges Average 8.5 inches 3.37 inches Annual you are most likely to see while hiking or munching on multi-hued spring wild- for evidence of predatory ravens, known Precipitation sightseeing at Mojave National Preserve. flowers along Kelbaker Road. Observe, continued on page 5

4 Mojave National Preserve Protect the desert tortoise The Beanery Lunch Don’t dump or litter. Garbage attracts ravens and other predators that feed on tortoise eggs and hatchlings. Counter closes...again

Don’t release pet tortoises into the wild. They may carry diseases that will spread to wild tortoises. Contact a ranger to learn about tortoise adoption programs.

Check beneath your vehicle before driving away. Tortoises sometimes rest in the shade of a car.

Do not take a tortoise. It is illegal to remove tortoises from the wild.

If you see a tortoise, stay back. Approaching too closely may cause a tortoise to spray urine in self-defense–a potentially fatal loss of fluid.

Reduce driving speeds and watch for tortoises on desert roadways.

Desert Tortoise- Engineer of the Mojave continued from page 4 to devour young tortoises whose shells throughout the year to teach young peo- have not yet hardened. He encourages ple about this marvelous desert animal,” drivers to check for tortoises in the shade says Darby. “Desert residents are big fans under their cars before driving away. of the desert tortoise. If the public knows Darby is restoring native plants in old live- and understands how their actions affect stock corrals, springs, and around water the tortoise, they will do what they can to tanks–places where tortoise like to search help protect this symbol of the desert.” for juicy plants. Seth Shteir is California Desert Field Repre- According to Darby, education is also an sentative for the National Parks Conserva- important component in protecting the tion Association in Joshua Tree, California. Mike Williams operated the lunch counter at Kelso Depot Visitor Center from 2009 to 2013. desert tortoise. “Rangers visit classrooms ...... Meet Mojave’s Volunteer Coordinator tional Park Service, eventually took over the building and started to make repairs. IF YOU VOLUNTEER AT MOJAVE NATIONAL and equipment. Some enjoy sharing their Kelso Depot became part of the National Preserve, the first ranger you are likely in-depth knowledge by providing inter- Park Service when Mojave National Pre- to meet is Volunteer Manager Christina pretive programs during busy months. serve was established by Congress in 1994. Mills. Originally from Youngstown, Ohio, Ranger Mills worked at Big Bend, Carls- Volunteers are of all ages and have di- The National Park Service began renovat- bad Caverns, and Guadalupe Mountains verse backgrounds. Typically they are ing Kelso Depot in 2002, and the ribbon National Parks before moving to Mojave self-reliant, don’t mind living in a remote cutting ceremony occurred in 2005. Once National Preserve in 2000. “I didn’t plan environment, and share an interest in the By Christina Mills, Park Ranger again visitors could enter the historic to spend my career living and working in out-of-doors—and especially in National building, climb the original wooden stairs, desert parks, but that’s just the way things Parks. The experience provides volunteers COMMERICAL SERVICES SUCH AS RESTAURANTS watch the many trains go by, and relax on worked out,” explains Chris. with the opportunity to immerse them- and hotels that are operated inside na- the inviting covered porch. But some- selves in the resource as they contribute in tional parks are provided by contracted thing was still missing–visitors couldn’t As the volunteer manager, Ranger Mills a meaningful way. businesses called concessions. This get something to eat. Plans were made recruits and coordinates placement for includes the Beanery lunch counter at for a concessioner to re-open the Bean- more than 100 volunteers per year. “Vol- Sue Ryan, park volunteer, had this to say Kelso Depot Visitor Center. Concession ery to provide food service. Funding was unteers are vital for park operations, and about the program: “My husband, Tom, contracts are let for a defined period of obtained, kitchen and food service equip- I work with so many wonderful people and I have volunteered for the National time. When the Beanery concession con- ment was purchased and installed, and a through the volunteer program,” says Park Service for four assignments—three tract was nearing its end in early 2012, and concession contract was developed. Chris. “In the National Park Service, ‘VIP’ of them at Mojave. Because of Chris’s the existing concession operator was not stands for Volunteer-in-Park, in addition professionalism and attention to detail, we interested in extending, the National Park The business prospectus was opened to to the more common meaning of Very- have everything we need to do the job and Service developed a business prospectus all interested bidders in 2008, but no bids Important-Person.” have fun, too, so we keep coming back. and opened it to all interested bidders. were received. The prospectus deadline Mojave is a very special place, and Chris is But despite a search of over a year, a new was extended again and again, and finally While some volunteers participate in a a big part of why it is so special.” concessioner has not been found. As of a bid was approved. The Beanery opened one-day project, many live and work in November 1, 2013, the Beanery is closed. in March 2009, and the decades-old eat- the preserve for two to three months at a Volunteer positions are found on the park ery came alive again. Mike and Marilyn time. Volunteers staff information desks; website, www.nps.gov/moja. For addition- But this isn’t the first time that Beanery Williams of Yucca Valley ran the lunch serve as camp hosts; maintain park trails; al information, contact Ranger Christina operations have ended. counter, and Mike became a familiar survey cultural sites; monitor springs, Mills at [email protected] or at friendly face to the new and returning wildlife, and plants; and repair buildings 760 252-6123. Kelso Depot was built in 1924 by the visitors to Kelso Depot. The Beanery Union Pacific (UP) Railroad. The graceful proved popular with passing visitors, local Mission-Revival style of the building was residents, and men and women assigned chosen to compete with the elegant Har- to area military bases. vey Houses of that time period along the Santa Fe Railroad. While not as fancy as a But the Beanery contract expired on Oc- Harvey House restaurant, the Beanery at tober 31, 2013. The concessioner, ready to Kelso served UP passengers and employ- retire for a second time, declined to sub- ees, as well as local residents, for more mit a bid to continue his contract. “I’ve than 60 years before the Kelso Depot enjoyed meeting people from around closed in 1985. the world here at Kelso,” Williams said. “But it’s time for me to move on to other Union Pacific planned to demolish the activities.” Since no new operator has depot after closing it, anticipating vandal- been found, the Beanery lunch counter ism and liability issues, but local residents is closed. Mojave National Preserve is banded together to save Kelso Depot now exploring various options to provide from destruction. The Bureau of Land limited food service to visitors until a con- Management (BLM), which managed Volunteers Tom Ryan, Sue Ryan, and Leigh Lindstom study maps with volunteer coordinator cessioner is found to operate the Beanery Christina Mills. this part of the desert before the Na- again.

Mojave National Preserve 5 Camping & Backcountry Travel nps collection

Friends and family enjoy the spectacular setting of Hole-in-the-Wall Campground.

Backcountry Guidelines & Regulations Campgrounds

Backcountry travel and camping—backpacking, roadside camping, Hole-in-the-Wall Campground and horsepacking—require careful planning in order to ensure a Facilities: pit toilets, trash receptacles, potable water, fire rings, picnic tables, dump sta- safe and rewarding experience. Visitors should adhere to National tion; no utility hookups. Park Service regulations and are further encouraged to follow Leave Fees: $12 per site per night, $6 for America the Beautiful Senior/Access Pass holders. No Trace guidelines to minimize their impact on the fragile desert Reservations: not accepted; campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. nps collection environment. Additional regulations apply for roadside camping At 4,400 feet in elevation, Hole-in-the-Wall Campground is surrounded by sculptured (see below) and horsepacking (talk with a park ranger or visit us volcanic rock walls and makes a great basecamp for hikers (see p.7) and for exploring online for more information: www.nps.gov/moja). nearby Mitchell Caverns in the Providence Mountains State Recreation Area. Thirty- five campsites accommodate RVs and tents; two walk-in sites are also available. Leave No Trace principles are rooted in scientific studies and common sense. The message is framed under seven Leave No Trace Mid Hills Campground Principles presented below with accompanying regulations and Facilities: pit toilets, trash receptacles, potable water, fire rings, picnic tables; no guidelines specific to Mojave National Preserve: dump station or utility hookups. Fees: $12 per site per night, $6 for America the Beautiful Senior/Access Pass holders. 1. Plan Ahead and Prepare Reservations: not accepted; campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. •There is no permit or registration system for backcountry The Hackberry Fire swept through the Mid Hills area in June 2005, burning much of camping at Mojave National Preserve; be sure to notify others of the vegetation. About half of the 26 campsites were left unharmed, however—they your travel itinerary. remain surrounded by pinyon pine and juniper trees. At 5,600 feet in elevation, Mid •Few established trails exist; carry a good map and familiarize Hills is much cooler than the desert floor below. The access road is unpaved and is not

yourself with desert travel and survival skills before beginning

collection

recommended for motorhomes or trailers. nps your trip. Black Canyon Equestrian & Group Campground 2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Facilities: corrals, pit toilets, trash receptacles, potable water, fire ring, grill, picnic •Reuse existing campsites (required for roadside camping—see shelter with tables. below). Fees: $25 per group per night. •Do not make camp in a dry wash—flash floods develop quickly Reservations: required; call 760-928-2572 or 760-252-6104 in the desert. Located across the road from Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center. Ideal for both •Camping is limited to a maximum of 14 consecutive days per large groups and for riders - bring your own horse! Permits required for large groups visit/stay and 30 total days per year. (see p.2 for permit information). •Campsites must be more than 200 yards from any water source. nps collection •Camping is not permitted: within 1/4 mile of any paved road; within 1/2 mile of Fort Piute or Kelso Depot; within 1 mile north Nearby Camping Areas (i.e., the crest of the dunes) or 1/4 mile south of the Kelso Dunes access road. (Exceptions may apply for roadside camp- Afton Canyon ing—see below.) 25 miles southwest of Baker on I-15, has a BLM campground with tables and fire rings for $6 per night.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly Commercial camping is also available at Baker, Barstow, Needles, and Nipton, Calif. •Store all food and garbage in a manner that will prevent access by wildlife. Carry plastic bags and pack out all trash. Inside Mojave National Preserve, Mojave Desert Outpost is a private campground on Lanfair Road. For infor- •Bury human waste in catholes 6-8 inches deep, at least 200 mation call 951-780-3179 or check www.mojavedesertoutpost.com. feet from water, camp, and trails. Pack out all toilet paper and hygiene products. •Pet excrement must be collected and disposed of in garbage receptacles. Roadside Camping 4. Leave What You Find Roadside vehicle camping is permitted in areas that have been traditionally used for this purpose. •Disturbing, defacing, or collecting plants, ani- By reusing existing sites, you help protect the desert from further damage. Sites with existing rock mals, rocks, and historic or archeological objects is fire rings should be considered disturbed and suitable for roadside camping. Many roadside camp- prohibited. As part of our national heritage, these ing sites cannot accommodate multiple vehicles; please don’t enlarge them. Do not camp along resources should be left as they are found for all to paved roads or in day-use areas, and stay at least 200 yards from all water sources.

enjoy. Metal detectors are not allowed.

collection nps The National Park Service encourages roadside campers to use the following, selected sites: 5. Minimize Campfire Impacts Near Kelbaker Road: Near Cima Road: •Campfires are allowed in established Rainy Day Mine Site Sunrise Rock fire rings only, or with use of a por- 15.2 miles southeast of Baker on Kelbaker 12 miles south of I-15 on the east side of Cima table firepan (be sure to pack out Road, then 0.3 miles northeast on the unsigned Road. Campsites are behind the White Cross ashes). Do not leave fires smoldering and very sandy road to the Rainy Day Mine. World War I Memorial. Trailhead for Teutonia Peak or unattended. Four-wheel drive recommended; no RVs. Trail is nearby on the opposite side of Cima Road. •Cutting or collecting any wood, in- Granite Pass cluding downed wood, is prohibited. 6.1 miles north of I-40 on Kelbaker Road, just Near Black Canyon Road: All firewood must be brought into the north of Granite Pass, then west on one of Black Canyon Road (East) preserve. several access roads. Campsites are located 4 miles south of Hole-in-the-Wall Information just north of the granite spires. High clearance Center on the east side of Black Canyon Road, 6. Respect Wildlife vehicle recommended; no RVs. above a wash and near a hill with views of the Kelso Dunes Mine Providence Mountains. Another site is located 7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors 4 miles west of Kelbaker Road on the un- about 4 miles further south, near rock piles. paved Kelso Dunes Road. One campsite is This copyrighted information has been reprinted with located south of the road, 1/4 mile past the Near Ivanpah and Cedar Canyon Roads: permission from the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor marked trailhead. Several others are available Caruthers Canyon Ethics. For more information or materials, please visit 3/4 mile beyond, near a clump of trees. Except 5.5 miles west of Ivanpah Road on New York

www.LNT.org or call 303-442-8222. at these sites, roadside camping is prohibited Mountains Road, then 1.5 to 2.7 miles north to

schlegel christine / nps along Kelso Dunes Road (including at the campsites. High clearance and four-wheel drive trailhead). recommended; no RVs.

6 Mojave National Preserve Hiking nps collection

Sweeping vistas and opportunities for solitude are a part of every hike in Mojave. Options range from short loop trails to all day cross-country hikes.

Although there are few established hiking trails in Mojave National Preserve, abandoned dirt roads, washes, and ridge lines offer an abundance of cross-country hiking opportunities. Numbers on map PRIMM Repairs are underway show general locations of trails and routes listed below. at Mitchell Caverns Nipton Road All trails and routes listed below are shown on the National Geographic Trails Illustrated topographic map for Mojave National NIPTON SEARCHLIGHT Providence Mountains State Recre- Preserve. This and other maps are available for purchase at all ation Area, home to Mitchell Cav- Cima Road Ivanpah Road information centers (see page 2 for locations and other info.). NEVADA erns, is a California State Park located CALIFORNIA within the boundaries of Mojave

Star Mine Road 12 National Preserve. State park of- 15 2 95 ficials shut down operations there in Morning 10 BAKER Kelbaker January 2011. Employee retirements CIMA 11 coincided with the development

Road (4 x 4) 163 of serious problems with the water Mojave Cedar Canyon system, and state officials decided to 1 ZZYZX Road Mid Hills 8 Road 13 close the park until the system could

5 be repaired. 6 Road 3 Lanfair Road Kelso Cima Road 4 Hole-in-the-Wall KELSO Meanwhile, shortfalls in the Cali-

Kelbaker Road fornia state budget led lawmakers in Providence Mountains Sacramento to ask that state agencies State GOFFS Rec Area identify possible budget cuts. In May 7 Black Canyon Essex Road 2011, California State Parks released FENNER a closure list, and Providence Moun- 9 tains was among the 70 parks includ- 40 ed. While other parks targeted for the

closure were able to remain open with

collection nps support from non-profit organiza- Developed Trails tions, California State Parks officials decided not to invest in repairs to Providence Mountains State Recre- 1) Lake Tuendae Nature Trail 6) Barber Peak Loop Trail 10) Keystone Canyon Trailhead: Zzyzx parking area, 5 miles south of Trailhead: Hole-in-the-Wall Picnic Area, beyond Start: 18 miles south of Nipton Road on Ivanpah ation Area’s infrastructure during a I-15 on Zzyzx Road. Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center. The Road, then 2.5 miles west on an unmarked time of shrinking budgets, so the park Enjoy an easy, self-guided, 1/4-mile stroll around preserve’s newest trail, this 6-mile loop encircles dirt road. Bear left at the first fork, right at the remained closed. Lake Tuendae. Wayside exhibits along the trail Barber Peak just west of Hole-in-the-Wall second, then continue to a parking area. reveal the rich cultural and natural history of this Campground, passes the Opalite Cliffs, and Four-wheel drive recommended. Mitchell Caverns was initially devel- oasis on the preserve’s western boundary. returns to Hole-in-the-Wall via Banshee Canyon. Hike the deteriorating road into Keystone oped as a privately operated tourist Canyon, ascending the New York Mountains. attraction by Jack and Ida Mitchell 2) Teutonia Peak Trail 7) Kelso Dunes Continue cross-country to the top of the ridge in the early 1930s. Jack Mitchell died Trailhead: 12 miles south of I-15, or 5 miles Start: 3 miles west of Kelbaker Road on the for spectacular views. Hike is 3 miles one way. in 1954, and his family turned the north of Cima, Calif. on Cima Road. well-graded, but unpaved Kelso Dunes Road. property over to the state. Providence Explore the world’s densest Joshua tree forest Hikers at sunrise and sunset are treated to both 11) Caruthers Canyon Mountains State Recreation Area was en route to a rocky peak with expansive views cooler temperatures and the rose-colored glow Start: Primitive campsites in Caruthers Can- added to the California State Park of Cima Dome and beyond. 3 miles round-trip. of the dunes. The roughly 3-mile round-trip hike yon, 5.5 miles west of Ivanpah Road on New might take several hours as you slog through York Mountains Road, then 2.7 miles north system in 1956. 3) Hole-in-the-Wall Nature Trail the sand, then slide down the slopes. on unsigned road. Four-wheel drive recom- Trailhead: Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center mended. Over the years, California State Parks and Campground, 20 miles north of I-40 on 8) Rock Spring Loop Trail Hike on an abandoned road through a rocky has made many improvements to Essex and Black Canyon roads. The 1 mile loop trail starts at the Rock House basin. Mine shafts and abandoned structures the caverns, including the develop- Learn to identify desert plants on this easy, 1/2- and leads to a well-known watering hole and are on private property. Do not enter or climb ment of a safe pathway through the mile round-trip hike. Trailheads at Hole-in-the- site of an 1860s military outpost. Trail starts at on them as they are unstable and dangerous. caverns, a tunnel connecting the two Wall Information Center and Campground. Rock House, 5 miles east of Black Canyon Road principal caves, and installation of a on Cedar Canyon Road. 12) Castle Peaks Corridor lighting system. However, the remote 4) Rings Loop Trail Start: 4.9 miles east of Ivanpah Road on signed location of the caverns and the lack Trailhead: Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center Recommended Routes Hart Mine Road; left at fork, then 0.9 miles, of a connection to the electrical grid parking area, 20 miles north of I-40 on Essex Warning: the routes described below are left at fork, then 3.4 miles, crossing an earthen have contributed to the difficulties in and Black Canyon roads. not established trails; trailheads might berm; left at fork, then 1 mile more to where Discover how Hole-in-the-Wall got its name as be unidentifiable or nonexistent. Check a road ends. Four-wheel drive recommended. the operation and maintenance of the you ascend narrow Banshee Canyon with the detailed map or guidebook—available at For excellent views of the Castle Peak spires, caverns. help of metal rings mounted in the rock. The 1 all information centers—and consult a park walk 4 miles one way up the closed road to the mile round-trip hike connects to the Mid Hills to ranger for route information. ridgetop and beyond into a small canyon. The state budget has stabilized over Hole-in-the-Wall Trail abd Barber Peak Loop Trail the past year, and work has begun to (see below). 9) Quail Basin 13) Piute Creek repair and renovate housing, the visi- Start: 12.5 miles north of I-40 on Kelbaker Start: 9.5 miles east of the junction of Lanfair tor center, and electrical and water 5) Mid Hills to Hole-in-the-Wall Trail Road, then 1 mile east on an unmarked dirt Valley and Cedar Canyon roads on a dirt utility systems. With new investment in this Trailheads: Across the road from the entrance to road. Park at junction with closed dirt road road, then 0.5 miles north. High clearance unique and remote holding of the Mid Hills Campground, and about 2 miles west heading south. High clearance and four- and four-wheel drive recommended. California State Park system, officials of Black Canyon Road on the south end of Wild wheel drive recommended. Hike 6.5 miles round-trip through colorful Piute hope to reopen Mitchell Caverns for Horse Canyon Road. Follow the route to the south to a road that Gorge and explore the ruins of Fort Piute, built tours in 2014. Hike 8 miles, one-way, through a maze of loops around a small valley. After walking the and manned in the 1860s to protect mail and washes decorated with barrel and cholla cacti, loop, return via the same route. The 6.5-mile travelers on the Mojave Road. A perennial then through the Hackberry Fire burned area. round-trip route leads past jumbled rocks into stream near the fort, rare in the Mojave, sup- Total elevation gain from south to north is 1,200 a small valley of Mojave yucca and juniper sur- ports riparian plants and animals. Return to your feet. Watch carefully for trail route markers. rounded by granite outcroppings. vehicle via an unused trace of the Mojave Road.

Mojave National Preserve 7

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5mi 8km US Federal government jobs US Federal government Leave No Trace Desert California information Wilderness Desert Discovery Center Desert Tortoise data and information DesertUSA wildflower reports Sweeney Granite Mtns. Desert Research Ctr. Bureau of Land Management CSU Desert Studies Center (Zzyzx) store) Western National Parks Association (book - Providence Mountains State Recreation Area Lake Mead National Recreation Area Joshua Tree National Park Death Valley National Park Mojave National Preserve National Park Service Website Directory Providence Mountains State Recreation Area Lake Mead National Recreation Area Joshua Tree National Park Death Valley National Park Calico Ghost Town Bureau of Land Mgmt. - Needles Field Office Bureau of Land Mgmt. - Barstow Field Office Anza Borrego Desert State Park Nearby Parklands Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center Hole-in-the-Wall Fire Center The Beanery @ Kelso (lunch room) Center Kelso Depot Visitor Barstow Headquarters Office Mojave National Preserve San Bernardino County Sheriff - Needles San Bernardino County Sheriff - Baker Federal Interagency Communications Center Emergency 911 Telephone Directory

Mileages Mojave National Preserve U.S. Department of the Interior National Park Service www.usajobs.opm.gov www.lnt.org www.californiadesert.gov www.wilderness.net www.discoverytrails.org/welcome1.html www.deserttortoise.gov www.desertusa.com/wildflo/wildupdates http://nrs.ucop.edu/Sweeney-Granite.htm www.blm.gov http://biology.fullerton.edu/dsc/ www.wnpa.org http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=615 www.nps.gov/lame www.nps.gov/jotr www.nps.gov/deva www.nps.gov/moja www.nps.gov 760-928-2586 702-293-8990 760-367-5500 760-786-2331 760-254-2122 760-326-7000 760-252-6000 760-767-4205 760-928-2572 760-252-6104 or 760-928-2573 760-252-6165 760-252-6108 760-252-6100 760-326-9200 760-733-4448 909-383-5651