DTRNA Overview
The Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area (DTRNA) is 39.5 square miles of prime natural habitat set aside for the local wild population of desert tortoise, the official California state reptile. The preserve boasts a rich flora and fauna representative of the intricate Mojave Desert ecosystem. In 1980, the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Department of Interior, recognized the significance of the DTRNA by designating it as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern and as a Research Natural Area. There is no cost to visit the Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area but donations are greatly appreciated!
Open Every Day: 8am-5pm
Interpretive Center
The Interpretive Center, with a parking area and a kiosk containing descriptive panels, shelter and benches, was dedicated April, 1980. The spring months (mid-March to mid-June) are the best times to visit the Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area because of the milder temperatures. A Desert Tortoise Preserve Committee naturalist is present during these months for site protection and interpretation. If you would like to plan a group field trip or special presentation with the Naturalist, please contact us at email hidden; JavaScript is required. The Interpretive Center is the trail head for the self-guiding trails that are the inspiration for this virtual field trip.
Location
The Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area lies in the northwestern Mojave Desert on the western edge of the Rand Mountains in eastern Kern County. It is northeast of California City- a two-hour drive north from Los Angeles or east from Bakersfield.
The Interpretive Center is located about 4 miles northeast of California City just off the unpaved Randsburg Mojave road — marked by the red marker on the map.
Directions
From CA- 58 (California City Blvd. Exit)
Take California City Blvd. North until you reach the first traffic light. Best Western will be on your left as you approach the light. Continue straight and travel 1.3 miles until you reach a fork in the road at the large gazebo. Turn left onto Randsburg- Mojave Rd. Follow this dirt road for approximately 4 miles until you reach the entrance to the Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area.
From California City Proper
Take California City Blvd. East until you reach the edge of the golf course. Best Western will be on your right as you approach the light. Turn left and travel 1.3 miles until you reach a fork in the road at the large gazebo. Turn left onto Randsburg- Mojave Rd. Follow this dirt road for about 4 miles until you reach the entrance to the Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area.
Visiting the DTRNA
The best time to see tortoises is in the morning and evening when they avoid the heat of the day. Please bring a hat, water, sunscreen, and close-toed shoes for your adventure on the hiking trails. Be cautious of Mojave rattlesnakes while on trail. Please leave your pets at home as they are not permitted into the fence at the DTRNA. It is illegal to release captive tortoises or relocate wild tortoises in the natural area or anywhere in the desert. Always check under your car and in front of tires before leaving the DTRNA.