Rock Spring

Tucked into a rocky canyon along the original Mojave Road, Rock Spring has been watering desert travelers since the 1860s. The spring emerges from granite boulders and flows into a small concrete tank, surrounded by desert willows and the occasional palm tree — a genuine oasis in this harsh country. Stone ruins from an old way station still dot the area, along with inscriptions carved by miners, soldiers, and emigrants who stopped here on their way between the Colorado River and Los Angeles.

The spring is reliable year-round but flows can vary with season and drought. It’s about 8 miles east of Kelso on a rough dirt road that requires high clearance. The site sits within Mojave National Preserve and camping is allowed, though most folks just stop to top off water and soak in the history. Bring a flashlight to explore the inscriptions on the rocks.

Original Mojave Road water stop with 150+ years of history