Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park

Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park is a protected area covering over 560 acres of dense Joshua tree and California juniper forest in the western Mojave Desert. The park displays the typical vegetation of this desert region with mature trees rising against the open landscape.

Arthur Ripley donated this land to California in 1988 to protect one of the last remaining Joshua tree and juniper woodlands in Antelope Valley. The founding marked a key moment in efforts to preserve this endangered desert ecosystem.

The Joshua tree held deep significance for local Native American communities, who gathered its fibers and fruits for daily needs. Walking through the woods today, you can see the same trees that sustained those cultures for centuries.

The park offers marked hiking trails where visitors can explore the woodlands and watch for wildlife without needing special equipment. A visit works year-round, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions with moderate temperatures.

The trees here create striking silhouettes against the sky during sunrise and sunset, making it a favorite spot for photographers seeking that visual effect. This happens because the vegetation is sparse, so individual trees stand out boldly against the open desert landscape.

Location: Los Angeles County

Inception: 1993

Website: http://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=634

GPS coordinates: 34.75920,-118.50300

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:03