Rainbow Basin Natural Area
Barstow, CA
Free (camping $6/night)
By Simir Shah
★★★★★4.8(189 Google reviews)
What parents say
AI summary of 5 Google reviews — not a first-hand visit. How we write these
Essentially a short unpaved scenic loop you drive rather than a place to play. Reports on the road conflict: some managed it in an ordinary car, one found deep ruts after rain and would only take a high-clearance vehicle. Colors show best near sunset. Bring water, as nothing is sold out there.
About 8 miles north of Barstow off Irwin Road, this BLM area dazzles with candy-striped, multicolored rock formations that feel like another planet. The scenic loop drive is unpaved and best for higher-clearance vehicles, so check road conditions and carry your own water — there's none on site.
Fossil Bed Rd, Barstow, CA 92311, USA
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What visitors say
- Costa Mesa Dave★★★★★
This is such a great part of the desert that everyone should visit especially when you’re on your way to Las Vegas Vegas. The best time to visit this place is at Sunset because that’s when all the colors really pop but even if the time noon everyone should drive through this place. You don’t need four-wheel-drive, technically a Honda Accord will make it, but I would recommend at least bring a pick up truck or an SUV some type of crossover.
5 months ago
- Andrea Christine★★★★★
I made the drive in my Honda Civic. This place is much better in person. The pictures online fail to show all the colors. I didn't find any fossils, but still had fun looking.
5 months ago
Showing 2 of 5 Google reviews · Read them all on Google Maps