Rainbow Basin, National Natural Landmark in San Bernardino County, California.
The geological formation features sedimentary rocks with multiple colors including gray, red, pale green, and buff, forming bluffs and intricate ledges.
The basin contains fossil beds from the middle Miocene epoch, between 12 and 16 million years ago, preserving remains of ancient camels, horses, and mastodons.
Scientists and geology students examine the site for educational purposes, studying rock formations and analyzing different visible strata in the landscape.
Visitors can access the area through a 3.7-mile one-way loop road from Barstow, with Owl Canyon Campground providing 22 basic sites for overnight stays.
During heavy rainfall periods, the normally dry basins transform as water cascades through the formations, creating temporary waterfalls in the desert environment.
Location: San Bernardino County
GPS coordinates: 35.02940,-117.03700
Latest update: May 11, 2025 14:26
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