Burns Piñon Ridge Reserve

Burns Piñon Ridge Reserve is a research protected area covering about 300 acres at the western edge of the Mojave Desert, with weathered boulder outcrops, pinyon pines, and yucca plants scattered across dry terrain. The landscape varies in elevation with rocky soils and diverse plants adapted to harsh desert conditions.

The property was privately owned by the Burns family from 1947 to 1972 before being transferred to the University of California. It then became part of a statewide network of natural reserves dedicated to scientific research and education.

The reserve functions as an educational center for university courses in desert ecology, zoology methods, natural history, and environmental ethics.

Access is primarily for researchers and university students doing field studies, not for casual visitors. A converted residence on the property serves as a field station offering accommodation for those working on research projects.

The location sits where three distinct plant regions meet: the Transverse Range, the Sonoran Desert, and the Mojave Desert. This rare convergence creates an exceptional setting for botanical study and observation.

Website: http://burns.ucnrs.org

GPS coordinates: 34.14917,-116.45417

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:01