EXTRAORDINARY LANDSCAPES. ENDURING STORIES.

Castle Mountains National Monument

Mojave grasslands & desert mountains
California
Scenic header: Red rocks frame a stand of Joshua trees and sage brush in the desert floor.. · NPS Photo · Photo credits
TAKE TIME TO DISCOVER

Mojave grasslands & desert mountains

Joshua trees, desert grasslands and mountain views distinguish this remote corner of the Mojave. It is a landscape outing for travelers prepared for sparse facilities and unpaved approaches.

Red rocks frame a stand of Joshua trees and sage brush.
Red rocks frame a stand of Joshua trees and sage brush in the desert floor..
NPS Photo · Photo credits
Foreground is desert greenery. The isolated spires of the Castle Peaks rise up in the background
From Walking Box Ranch road, visitors to Castle Mountains can enjoy the stunning view of the Castle Peaks, which are located in surrounding Mojave National Preserve lands.
NPS Photo · Photo credits
BUILD A MEMORABLE VISIT

What to explore

  • 01Joshua tree grasslands
  • 02Castle Peaks views
  • 03Desert wildlife habitat

Before you go

Use current NPS access guidance, suitable vehicles and adequate supplies. Do not assume paved roads or reliable cell service.

Give the place time

Choose a manageable walk, viewpoint or tour, and allow time for interpretation. Gateway areas help orient the visit; they are not exact entrance directions.

Make the details easy

Confirm the specific facilities, walking surfaces and vehicle access your group needs. Tours, transport and special access may require separate arrangements.

Official visitor information ↗Plan your visit →

Check the official source for current access, hours, fees, reservations, permits and alerts. Photos may show earlier conditions. Suggested highlights are visit ideas, not a guarantee that every area is currently open.