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West Mojave Desert Ecological Reserve

Description

The West Mojave Desert Ecological Reserve is an approximately 18,000 acre property. The dominant vegetation is burro-weed, with creosote bush also abundant though not as evenly distributed. Other plants present are cheese bush, beavertail cactus, desert marigold, and the desert aster. Wildlife observed on or known to inhabit the property includes rabbits, coyotes, mice, larks, ravens, doves, and lizards.

For more information, call the Inland Deserts Region Bishop office at (760) 872-1171.

Recreational Opportunities

Wildlife Viewing Hiking Trails Quail Hunting

Activities: wildlife viewing, hiking, hunting (seasonal)

NOTE: Visitors are responsible for knowing and complying with all regulations pertaining to the use of Department lands.

Refer to the Public Uses on State and Federal Lands section of the Waterfowl, Upland Game, and Public Use Regulations (PDF) booklet for both statewide and property-specific regulations.

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You may not operate a drone on CDFW Lands without a Special Use Permit.

Area History

This section of land was an annex to the nearby Boron Air Force Station, and sheep grazing has occurred in the vicinity for at least 30 years. Off-road vehicles users have also used this area in the past, causing habitat degradation. This parcel was obtained for the purpose of preserving a representative portion of the West Mojave Desert and to protect it from the damaging influences of off-road vehicle use and sheep grazing. The property was designated as an ecological reserve by the Fish and Game Commission in 1988. Signs have been installed to discourage off-road vehicle use and it appears that use has declined in recent years.

Map of West Mojave Desert Ecological Reserve location - click to enlarge in new window
Click to enlarge

Location

Inland Deserts Region (Region 6)

San Bernardino County

Directions: Hwy 395 north of Kramer Junction (Hwys 58 and 395) about 7 miles. East on dirt road to reserve.

CDFW Lands Viewer

Wildlife Branch - Lands Program
Mailing: P.O. Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090