Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park

Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park Enjoy a picnic or a nature hike in one of the last pristine Joshua Tree/California Juniper forests in Park along Lancaster Road and walk in by the main gate.

This rare Joshua tree-California Juniper habitat once covered much of the valley floor, but most was lost to the agricultural boom beginning in the late 1800’s. The habitat is a haven for animals, and in favorable conditions, the Joshua trees bloom with a soft white pineapple-shaped flower. Enjoy the self-guided nature trails and educational display, and relax in the shade of the picnic ramada. Free admission.

07/04/2026
01/31/2026

Single and ready to mingle? Do you like a man who will serenade you? One with a long, curved beak? Well, Ripley has the bachelor for you! He goes by the name California Thrasher and is active and vocal right now at the park. Named thrashers for the sound they make as they use their long, curved beak to flip over leaf litter. This guy has come out looking to settle down with someone nice before Valentine’s Day. Listen and enjoy the sounds of nature enjoying this unseasonably warm weather.

Storm blowing in on January 7th above the Joshua trees.
01/21/2026

Storm blowing in on January 7th above the Joshua trees.

It is still winter in the Mojave, but early winter rains and warm temps kick started plant growth. Tiny pink red stem fi...
01/07/2026

It is still winter in the Mojave, but early winter rains and warm temps kick started plant growth. Tiny pink red stem filaree are opening and the leaves of annual purple flowered chia have pushed up from the soil. Winter and early spring are notorious for brutally chilly strong winds, so check the forecast before going for a winter desert stroll.

One of our wonderful volunteers braved the storm on 12/26/25 and snapped a photo of 2 flower buds growing on the Joshua ...
12/27/2025

One of our wonderful volunteers braved the storm on 12/26/25 and snapped a photo of 2 flower buds growing on the Joshua tree at Ripley. Rare blossom formation in December. A true Christmas present.

Address

20501 Lancaster Road
Lancaster, CA
93536

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 8pm
Tuesday 8am - 8pm
Wednesday 8am - 8pm
Thursday 8am - 8pm
Friday 8am - 8pm
Saturday 8am - 8pm
Sunday 8am - 8pm

Telephone

+16619466092

Website

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