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Introduction to Barstow, California (Barstow, California Travel Guide)
Nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert at the crossroads of historic Route 66 and major interstates I-15 and I-40, Barstow, California serves as a gateway to adventure, history, and natural wonders. This vibrant crossroads city, with a population of around 25,000, boasts a rich tapestry of desert landscapes, railroad heritage, and off-road excitement that draws travelers from around the world. Founded as a railroad hub in the late 19th century, Barstow has evolved into an outdoors lover’s paradise, offering everything from nostalgic Route 66 drives to geological marvels like Rainbow Basin and thrilling off-roading in the surrounding Mojave Desert.
What makes Barstow, California special for tourism? Its strategic locationroughly 110 miles northeast of Los Angeles and 140 miles southwest of Las Vegaspositions it perfectly for road trippers planning a visit to nearby landmarks like the Mojave National Preserve, Joshua Tree National Park, and Calico Ghost Town. The city’s geography features dramatic desert vistas, colorful rock formations, and clear night skies ideal for stargazing, all while providing modern amenities like outlet shopping and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re on a vacation seeking things to do in the desert, history buffs exploring Route 66, or adventure seekers tackling off-road trails, this Barstow travel guide equips you with insider tips for an unforgettable trip planning experience. Expect affordable stays, diverse dining, and events that celebrate its mining, military, and space exploration legacy.
Barstow‘s significance lies in its role as a living museum of American transportation history, from stagecoaches and railroads to the Mother Road itself. Surrounded by military installations like Fort Irwin and the Marine Corps Logistics Base, plus NASA’s Goldstone Deep Space Network, it blends past and future seamlessly. For travelers, this means accessible attractions, petroglyph sites, and annual festivals that highlight its diverse cultural heritage. Dive into this comprehensive guide to uncover why Barstow, California is a must-visit stop on any California desert itinerary.
Historical Significance of Barstow, California
Barstow, California pulses with history, shaped by mining booms, railroad expansion, and the iconic Route 66 era. Its story is one of resilience amid the harsh Mojave Desert, transforming from a dusty outpost to a bustling junction.
The Birth/Foundation of Barstow, California
The area now known as Barstow was first settled during a silver-mining rush in 1880, initially called Fishpond and then Waterman Junction. It was renamed in 1886 to honor William Barstow Strong, president of the Santa Fe Railway, as the railroad brought prosperity and permanence. Mining declined, but the railroads endured, making Barstow a key freight hubtoday, nearly all Southern California rail traffic passes through its BNSF classification yard.
Historical Timeline
- 1881: Calico silver strike sparks a mining boom nearby, leading to ghost towns like Calico.
- 1911: Casa del Desierto (Harvey House) opens as a luxurious railroad hotel and depot.
- 1926: Route 66 is established, cementing Barstow as a Mother Road icon.
- 1940s-1950s: Post-WWII military growth with Fort Irwin and Marine Corps bases.
- 1960s-Present: NASA’s Goldstone facility advances space communications; Route 66 nostalgia revives tourism.
Key milestones include the Old Spanish Trail (pre-1848), a treacherous pack mule route through the area dubbed “the longest, crookedest, most arduous” by explorer John C. Fremont, and camel caravans used by the U.S. Army in the 1850s.
Cultural Heritage
Barstow‘s heritage spans Native American petroglyphs at sites like the Calico Early Man Archaeological Site (20 miles northeast), one of North America’s most important Pleistocene digs with master pits showcasing ancient tools. Railroad culture thrives via museums in the historic Harvey House, while Route 66 thrift shops preserve mid-century Americana. Main Street Murals depict everything from Stone Age life to space exploration, honoring pioneers, miners, and explorers.
Evolution and Modern Development
From mining camps to a modern crossroads, Barstow now promotes economic growth through tourism, outlets, and military ties. The Chamber of Commerce champions public services, housing expansion, and cultural pride, with revitalization via murals and events. Today, it’s a blend of nostalgia (Route 66) and innovation (NASA displays).
Top Attractions in Barstow, California
Barstow, California brims with attractions perfect for any travel guide itinerary. Prioritize these must-sees for history, shopping, and desert drama.
Calico Ghost Town
California’s official Silver Rush Ghost Town (designated 2005), Calico is 10 miles northeast of Barstow off I-15 (27900 Calico Blvd, Yermo, CA 92398). Born from the 1881 silver strike, one-third original structures recreate Old West life. Explore a hard rock silver mine, ride the narrow-gauge railroad (weekends, $4 adults), join historian-led walking tours ($10, daily), shop boutiques, and dine at Maggie Mine’s Café. Camping, events, and outdoor rec abound; entry $10/adult, open 9 AM-5 PM daily.
Casa Del Desierto (Harvey House)
This 1911 Santa Fe Railroad gem at 681 N 1st Ave doubles as Amtrak station, event venue, and museums. Tour the Western America Railroad Museum (free, Thu-Sun 11 AM-4 PM) for locomotives and artifacts, plus Route 66 Mother Road Museum next door (free, same hours). Admire Spanish Revival architecture and NASA exhibits; ideal for railfans.
Rainbow Basin Natural Area
A colorful geological wonder in the Calico Peaks (Owl Canyon Rd, 25 miles north of Barstow), featuring vibrant rock layers from ancient seas. Hike easy trails (accessible by standard vehicles), camp at Owl Canyon ($20/night), and photograph badlands. Free entry, open 24/7; stargazing heaven.
The Outlets at Barstow
Shop 100+ stores at this open-air mall (2796 Tanger Way, open Mon-Sat 10 AM-8 PM, Sun 10 AM-7 PM). Home to the California Welcome Center for maps and tips; brands like Nike, Coach. Perfect vacation shopping stop en route to Vegas or LA.
Skyline Drive-In Theatre
Nostalgic double-feature cinema at 5210 Lena Rd (gates open 6:30 PM Fri-Sun, $10/adult). FM radio audio, concessions; current blockbusters under desert stars.
Outdoor Activities and Recreation
The Mojave around Barstow, California is an off-roader’s dream, with endless trails for things to do beyond pavement.
Off-Roading and Desert Exploration
Miles of dedicated OHV areas near Fort Irwin and Marine Corps Base; rent ATVs locally or join guided tours. Clear skies for meteor showers; horseback riding available.
Hiking Pisgah Crater
Climb this dormant volcanic cinder cone (30 miles east off I-40) for panoramic views. Moderate 1-2 hour hike; free, any vehicle access on main roads.
Mojave National Preserve
Massive preserve (I-15/I-40 loop) with dunes, lava tubes, Joshua trees. Packed dirt roads drivable in sedans; longer loops for RVs. Free entry, but check NPS site for conditions.
Nature Trails and Hiking
Rainbow Basin trails (2-5 miles, easy-moderate), Owl Canyon petroglyph hikes, and Calico’s mining paths. Pack water; spring/fall best to avoid heat.
Cultural Attractions and Events
Barstow‘s scene mixes art, museums, and festivals for cultural immersion.
Annual Events and Festivals
- Mojave Desert Gem & Mineral Show (early Dec, custom jewelry, free entry).
- Slash X Dual in the Desert (Feb, 25-mile off-road race).
- Ft. Irwin March to Veterans Home (38-mile veteran walk).
Calico hosts ghost town events drawing international crowds.
Local Arts and Music Scene
Main Street Murals (30+ downtown, self-guided tours from 1st-7th Ave) depict history; Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch (recycled art); Liberty Sculpture Park; Dolores Lake Park contemporary installs. Barstow College Performing Arts Theater for shows.
Museums and Cultural Sites
Mojave River Valley Museum (free, natural history); Western America Railroad Museum; Route 66 Museum; Goldstone Deep Space NASA Visitor Center (tours by appt, space tech).
Dining and Local Cuisine
Barstow‘s eats blend Route 66 diners with desert comfort food.
Local Favorites
Roy’s Café (historic Route 66, burgers $12); Original Del Taco (birthplace, tacos $2); Black Bear Diner (family meals $15); Dinapolis Firehouse (Italian, pasta $18).
Coffee Shops and Casual Dining
Route 66 staples like Peg’s Coffee; fast-casual at outlets; Stater Bros. Market for picnics.
Fine Dining Options
Limited but solid: Route 66 Hotel & Casino steakhouse; Calico’s Maggie Mine’s for Western fare.
Accommodation Options
Stay options suit every traveler in Barstow, California.
Hotels and Motels
Route 66 Hotel & Casino (301 N 1st Ave, $100/night); Holiday Inn Express ($130); motels along Main St from $80.
Unique Lodging Experiences
Calico Ghost Town camping ($30); Harvey House events (special stays).
Camping and RV Facilities
Owl Canyon (Rainbow Basin, $20); Calico ($30 hookups); Mojave Preserve free dispersed sites. Full hookups at outlets RV park.
Shopping and Local Businesses
Beyond outlets, hunt treasures on Route 66.
Antique Shops and Collectibles
Thrift/antique stores along Main St; Route 66 memorabilia.
Local Crafts and Artisan Goods
Gem Show finds; Calico shops for silver, Western crafts.
Specialty Stores
Barstow Outlets (designer discounts); Walmart, Rite Aid for essentials.
Transportation and Getting Around
Barstow‘s crossroads make access easy.
Driving to Barstow, California
I-15 (LA-Vegas), I-40 (east-west); gas up often in desert.
Local Transportation
Amtrak at Harvey House; limited buses; rideshares; rent cars at outlets.
Accessibility Information
Wheelchair-friendly museums, outlets; some trails ruggedcall ahead for Calico tours.
Seasonal Considerations and Best Times to Visit
Tailor your Barstow, California vacation to weather.
Spring in Barstow, California
Mar-May: Wildflowers, mild 70s°F; hike Rainbow Basin, events ramp up.
Summer Activities
Jun-Aug: Hot (100°F+), but AC outlets, evening drive-ins, off-roading.
Fall Season
Sep-Nov: Cool 80s°F, perfect for preserves, Route 66 drives, Gem Show.
Winter Opportunities
Dec-Feb: 50-60°F, races, stargazing; light snow rare.
Planning Your Visit to Barstow, California
Streamline your trip planning.
Recommended Itineraries
- 1-Day: Calico, Harvey House, outlets.
- 3-Day: Add Mojave Preserve, Rainbow Basin, off-roading.
- Weekend: Events, hiking Pisgah, Daggett ghost town.
Budget Considerations
Daily $100-200/person (gas $50, food $40, attractions $30); free museums save big.
What to Pack and Bring
Sunscreen, water (1 gal/person/day), hat, sturdy shoes, layers, off-road gear, star chart.
Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
Discover Barstow‘s under-the-radar spots.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations
Daggett pioneer cemetery (authentic ghost town); Painted Rocks petroglyphs; Calico Early Man Site digs.
Local Traditions and Culture
Veterans Home marches; camel history murals; space-age NASA tours.
Insider Tips
Visit Welcome Center first (outlets) for maps; fuel Thursday (cheaper); night hikes for bioluminescence rare.
Conclusion
Barstow, California delivers an authentic desert travel guide experience blending Route 66 nostalgia, outdoor thrills, and hidden history. From Calico’s silver mines to Rainbow Basin’s colors, this crossroads gem ensures every visitor leaves with stories. Plan your trip today for timeless adventure.
Also, read Bakersfield, California Travel Guide
