Desert Center, Census-designated place in Riverside County, California.
Desert Center is a place where Interstate 10 and State Route 177 intersect in the Colorado Desert, positioned halfway between Los Angeles and Phoenix. The settlement consists of a handful of buildings spread across the flat desert landscape.
A founder purchased land here in 1921 after his vehicle broke down near an old well in the area. From this chance encounter, an outpost began to develop in the desert.
The community preserves its rural roots through original buildings, including a concrete structure built by its founder. These structures tell the story of early settlement in this remote location.
The location is easily accessible by road from both directions along the interstate corridor. It is best to arrive with supplies of fuel and water, as services and amenities here are minimal.
A physician operated a clinic here that developed an insurance model later adopted by a major health insurance company. This remote desert venture had unexpected ripple effects on healthcare nationwide.
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