Naturalists At Large

Sites by Region

Deserts

California's deserts offer a wealth of outdoor educational opportunities.

Our naturalists help your students discover the uniqueness of the Mojave, Sonoran or Great Basin deserts.

We can establish a desert outdoor learning center for you at any time of the year.

Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent outdoor educational site. Located along the transition between the Mojave and the upper Sonoran deserts, the Park is a mosaic of Joshua Tree woodland, cholla-covered slopes and sparkling springtime wildflowers. Deer, coyote, bobcat, desert big horn sheep and numerous species of bird inhabit Joshua Tree. A study of the varied human history of Native Americans, ranching and mining will enrich your Joshua Tree program. The Park has excellent rock-climbing and desert backpacking opportunities.

Anza-Borrego State Park, the largest state park in the United States, is an excellent example of the Sonoran Desert. Unique plants and animals, combined with the excellent camping facilities, make Anza-Borrego a perfect place to study this amazing desert. The Palm Canyon oasis and an excellent museum and visitor center add to the Anza-Borrego experience. The site is ideal for novice campers!