Barstow

Barstow is a desert town in San Bernardino County, California, located where two major highways cross through the Mojave Desert. The settlement spreads along several parallel corridors shaped by through traffic and low commercial strips.

The settlement began in the late 19th century as a railroad junction and grew over the decades into a supply point for travelers moving between the coast and interior. Highway traffic replaced rail as the main driver of local economy after World War II.

The town still preserves the look of classic American roadside stops with vintage neon signs and mid-century motor lodges along the old highway. Many travelers pause at the diners and gas stations to break up long desert drives between major cities.

The town works well as a midpoint stop on long desert drives, with plenty of lodging and fuel options in all price ranges along the main roads. Summer days can get very hot, so it helps to carry extra water and stock up on supplies in advance.

Nearby sits a large field of retired trains and locomotives visible from the road, a reminder of the former rail operations. Some travelers stop briefly to photograph the abandoned railcars from a distance.

Location: San Bernardino County

Inception: September 30, 1947

Elevation above the sea: 663 m

Shares border with: Fort Irwin National Training Center

Website: http://barstowca.org

GPS coordinates: 34.89333,-117.01889

Latest update: December 14, 2025 10:51