Rainbow Basin: Natural Area

RAINBOW BASIN

NATURAL AREA

By John Wease

RAINBOW BASIN IS A VERY PICTURESQUE geologic formation and part of the Calico Range. It is located approximately eight miles north of Barstow. It has been designated a National Natural Landmark and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management as the Rainbow Basin Natural Area. The location is off of Irwin Road (not Fort Irwin Road). Turning on the graded dirt road “Fossil Bed Road”, and driving about three miles, the access road to Rainbow Basin is clearly marked. To see Rainbow Basin, take the one-way scenic loop road at the junction.

“Graded dirt road” means the dirt road was graded smooth. The actual condition depends on how cooperative the weather has been, and how many visitors have driven through since it was last graded. Unless there has been a significant rain storm, the roads should be manageable by any car with reasonable ground clearance. The loop road itself is at times very narrow and closed to RV’s and vehicles with trailers.

The five-mile scenic loop road through the canyon has a 15mph posted speed limit. There are many places where you can stop and take photos. Driving slowly, and stopping frequently to take photos, you can easily take two hours to make the loop drive. There

are designated hiking trails for those so inclined. Also, a limitless number of hills to climb for the entertainment of “kids” of all ages.

Fossil Bed Road was named for the well-known, Miocene era fossil beds there. Collecting is prohibited except with a permit. Collecting is generally restricted to university or museum groups with permits. Any fossils found by the public should be left in place and reported to the BLM. Between 19 million and 13 million years ago, camels, mastodons, three-toed horses, rhinoceros, and saber-toothed cats all called the area home.

For those that want to spend more time, Owl Canyon Campground is located at the junction where the one-way loop road begins. It is a semi-primitive BLM campground and costs only $6 per night. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings. There are vault toilets and a limited water supply. It is open to RV’s but there are no hook-ups, or dump facilities. Any trash has to be packed out. It is a popular place for stargazing as it is well away from city lights.

The geological formations and colors appear different at different times of day as shadows change. Much of the loop road is a desert wash, so avoid visits if rain is forecast. The undercut hillsides offer evidence of past flash flooding through the canyon. Summertime visits would require the usual precautions for desert exploring. Carry plenty of water. Always tell someone you are going, and what time you plan to return. Or, better yet, go in a group with more than one vehicle. During the cooler months it is a very enjoyable place to spend some family-friendly time outside. Away from the city, but not too far away. For a few hours, or for the day, a place to enjoy a very scenic local area. And, admission is free.