California's 25,000 square miles of desert can be divided into two basic zones; the Mojave,
or high desert, and the Colorado, or low desert. Each of these areas contains unique fauna and
flora, as well as other natural resources that make them an important part of California's present
and future. California's deserts are home to two National Parks (Death Valley and Joshua Tree),
a National Reserve (East Mojave), and California's largest state park, Anza- Borrego.
The desert is a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors and spend time participating in
recreational activities. Many desert visitors go to the desert to camp, hike, fish, explore and
to experience the unique environment only found in the American Southwest and its deserts. Other
pastimes that are popular in the desert are, auto touring - off-roading, biking & cycling, desert
caves and caving, hiking & climbing, horseback riding, desert photography, rock and treasure
hunting, water sports - fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Places of interest:
- Palm Springs
- Death Valley National Park
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Mojave National Preserve
- Anza Borrego Desert State Park
