Rock Springs Loop

Rock Spring is one of several springs that pop up in the Mojave Desert, providing much needed water to residents and passersby. The spring was home to Native American tribes, a short-lived military outpost in the 19th century, and a couple of homesteaders in the 20th century. 

The short trail passes several interpretive signs that tell the natural and human history at the spring. The first sight you'll see is the Rock House, a sturdy structure that provided a home for a sick war veteran in the early 1900s and an artist in the 1980s. The shrubs, trees, and burrows surrounding the trail have provided shelter for the native animals for many centuries. On your visit, you're likely to see a number of lizards scurrying from one shady patch to another and jack rabbits bounding away as they sense you coming.

Continue along the trail to explore the natural spring. Wander up the wash and see if you can find running water. If you do, you're likely to see some wildflowers, critters, and maybe even some mushrooms nearby.

After visiting the spring, the trail passes the site of an old army camp that was infamous for being a particularly hostile site for its inhabitants. Many military personnel defected due to its remote location and scarcity of water.

As you round out the loop, enjoy views of the New York Mountains to the north. Enjoy some shade near the trailhead at the lone picnic table. And savor the peaceful solitude of this desert trail.