Newest National Parks

America's Newest National Parks

These desert lands are an oasis for those thirsting after beauty

Two new national parks and a new national preserve belie popular myths about American desert lands. Created by the 1994 California Desert Protection Act, Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, and Mojave National Preserve, all in California's Mojave Desert, are not simply cactus-strewn sandboxes. In fact, they are practically teeming with some 700 species of plants and 760 species of wildlife, some of which are extremely rare.

And cultural artifacts also appear on the arid landscape, from mysterious ancient pictographs to the Boeing  burial ground, where the aircraft manufacturer has laid several 748s to rest.

Gas, water, food are few and far between, though, and summer daytime temperatures average more than 100 degrees. Make sure you consult a map carefully before you travel. The best months for visiting are October through May.

Death Valley National Park

At 5,000 square miles, it is now the largest national park in the lower 48 states. Badwater, the lowest and hottest place in the United States, is located here, but many of the mountains in the park can be chilly, even in the summer. Notable sites include Eureka Valley's 700-foot sand dunes and Scotty's Castle, the opulent home of an early prospector. Death Valley is probably the most visitor-friendly of the new national parks, with hotels, campgrounds, and even a golf course within its boundaries.

Joshua Tree National Park

National Monument Dr. Twentynine Palms, Ca.

Ansel Adams shot some of his most famous landscape photographs here. Home of the gnarly, 20- to 40-foot Joshua tree it is also a world-famous spot for rock climbing. Although there are adequate camping facilities in the park, one might want to stay instead in Tewntynine Palms or Palm Springs for the comforts of cilvilization.

Mojave National Preserve

Lake Mead National Recreation Are, 601 Nevada Highway, Boulder City, NV.

Initially proposed as a national park, but downgraded to a national preserve to allow hunting. With 19 mountain ranges, groves of white fir and Joshua trees, limestone caves, and extensive, ancient petroglyphs, there is plenty to keep one occupied. Of the new parks, however, the Mojave is probably the least equipped for visitors, with a few campgrounds and no towns nearby.

And cultural artifacts also appear on the arid landscape. Photo by Elena.