Mojave National Preserve
- California
photo: National Park Service
Mojave National Preserve is a special place, and not just if you like Joshua Trees. It's the third largest unit of the National Park System in the lower 48, and the largest National Preserve. The preserve was created within the Pacific West Region of the National Park Service to protect and manage a unique and diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. The Mojave Desert is a harsh and beautiful place, and the preserve encompasses some of its most iconic features, including the Kelso Dunes, the Marl Mountains and the Cima Dome, as well as volcanic formations such as Hole-in-the-Wall and the Cinder Cone Lava Beds. The preserve is also home to an abundance of plants and animals, including many that are rare or endangered. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in the preserve, from hiking and camping to bird watching and stargazing.