Rainbow Basin: California’s Multicolored Geologic Wonderland
Rainbow Basin Natural Area, located north of Barstow, California, is a geological marvel known for its vibrant, multi-hued rock formations and intricate canyon networks.
The basin’s layered cliffs, mesas, and rolling hills draw nature enthusiasts, photographers, and geologists alike. They offer a unique look at the Mojave Desert’s natural beauty, with its scenic canyons, striking geological features, and desert wildlife.
Rainbow Basin provides hiking, photography, wildlife viewing, and camping options, and the area’s Fossil Canyon Loop Road offers a popular driving route for those with high-clearance vehicles, allowing visitors to experience the landscape up close.
Destination Details
| Season | October to April (best in cooler months) |
| Location | North of Barstow, California |
| Coordinates | Approx. 34.9262, -117.0936 |
| Management | Bureau of Land Management (BLM) |
| Nearest major city | Barstow, CA |
| Camping | Owl Canyon Campground (first-come, first-served) |
Getting to Rainbow Basin
From Barstow, take Irwin Road north for about eight miles. Then turn left onto Fossil Bed Road, leading you into the Rainbow Basin area. The main loop, Fossil Canyon Loop Road, is a one-way dirt route best suited for high-clearance vehicles or four-wheel drive. Avoid bringing RVs or trailers, as the road is narrow and can be challenging.
Overview
Rainbow Basin’s landscape is marked by a vivid palette of geological formations and intricate canyon systems shaped over millions of years. The area’s geological layers, ranging from red, green, and brown to shades of yellow and gray, reflect various mineral deposits and are especially striking during sunrise and sunset when the sunlight enhances the colors.
Activities
Hiking and Canyoneering
The basin’s numerous washes, such as Fossil, Coon, and Owl Canyons, offer scenic hiking routes. These dry riverbeds wind through the area, providing relatively easy access to Rainbow Basin’s unique rock formations and desert plant life. The washes are closed to vehicles to protect delicate ecosystems, allowing for a peaceful hiking experience.
Owl Canyon Trail begins north just of Owl Canyon Campground at the end of Owl Canyon Road at the turnabout (GPS: 35.025087, -117.022476)
Photography
The multicolored walls of Rainbow Basin are a draw for photographers, especially in early morning or late afternoon light. Visitors can capture the basin’s layered textures, vivid rock colors, and rugged terrain.
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife sightings are common, especially in the cooler morning and evening hours. Desert tortoises, lizards, and a variety of bird species can be seen throughout the basin. The dense vegetation in certain washes attracts birds and provides essential resources for wildlife in this arid region.
Vehicle Touring
The Fossil Canyon Loop Road offers a scenic drive through Rainbow Basin, taking visitors close to several geological and paleontological sites. High-clearance vehicles are recommended, as the road can be uneven and is narrow in places.
Camping and Amenities
Owl Canyon Campground, located nearby, offers 22 campsites on a first-come, first-served basis. Campsites include picnic tables and fire rings. Visitors should bring their own water, as potable water may not always be available. Vault toilets are provided, but there are no dumping facilities.
Safety and Conservation Tips
- Environmental Awareness
Rainbow Basin is an Area of Critical Environmental Concern, and visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails and routes to protect the delicate ecosystem. Off-highway vehicles are prohibited within the area and at Owl Canyon Campground. - Weather and Hazards
The basin is subject to extreme desert temperatures and flash flooding. Avoid hiking in low-lying areas during storms, as rain from upstream can cause rapid flooding even on clear days. Additionally, be aware of desert wildlife, such as poisonous snakes, and pack sufficient water, food, and first aid supplies. - Leave No Trace
Camping and hiking in Rainbow Basin require adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Be sure to pack out all trash and respect private land boundaries in the area.
Rainbow Basin’s vibrant landscape offers a rare glimpse into the geological history of California’s high desert. Whether hiking through its colorful canyons, photographing its striking rock formations, or simply soaking in the desert solitude, Rainbow Basin promises a memorable experience for those who appreciate the natural wonders of the Mojave Desert.
