Mojave River Valley Museum
Discover Barstow's rich history through diverse artifacts, from pioneer life to natural wonders, all curated by passionate volunteers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the midday heat
Mojave River Valley Museum
Best Time
Avoid the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Barstow's rich history through diverse artifacts, from pioneer life to natural wonders, all curated by passionate volunteers.
"A true hidden gem containing a wealth of knowledge, prestigious artifacts, and humble people."
🐶 Pet-Friendly Welcome
Friendly staff welcome your furry friends and even provide water! :dog:
🤝 Support Volunteer Efforts
This museum is run by passionate volunteers. Donations are highly encouraged to keep history alive. :heart:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Barstow Relics
Indoor exhibits
Discover artifacts, newspapers, and photos detailing Barstow's rich past from the 1700s to today.
Geology & Natural Wonders
Indoor and outdoor displays
Explore fascinating collections of rocks, gemstones, meteorites, and even dinosaur bones.
Outdoor Artifacts
East of the front door
See historical items and displays set up outside, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Donations Welcome
Beat the Heat Inside
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐶 Pet-Friendly Welcome
Friendly staff welcome your furry friends and even provide water! :dog:
🤝 Support Volunteer Efforts
This museum is run by passionate volunteers. Donations are highly encouraged to keep history alive. :heart:
📍 Adjacent Park Access
Check out the park next door for geocaches and a nice place to relax. :park:
🕰️ Check Operating Hours
Open daily from 11 AM to 4 PM. Confirm hours before your visit. :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐶 Pet-Friendly Welcome
Friendly staff welcome your furry friends and even provide water! :dog:
🤝 Support Volunteer Efforts
This museum is run by passionate volunteers. Donations are highly encouraged to keep history alive. :heart:
📍 Adjacent Park Access
Check out the park next door for geocaches and a nice place to relax. :park:
🕰️ Check Operating Hours
Open daily from 11 AM to 4 PM. Confirm hours before your visit. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Mojave River Valley Museum for its free admission and the passionate, friendly volunteers who operate it. While some note the museum can get warm and is organized more like an antique shop, the diverse collection of historical artifacts, natural wonders, and welcoming atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in local history.
"Stopped here on our way to Big Bear Lake and to discover a couple of Geocaches in the park adjacent to this museum. There is a small free parking lot in front, a park area and outdoor display to the east of the front door, and it is open from 1100 to 1600 hours daily, and it is free, but they do accept donations. The museum is not very large, but is full of historic items, from photos, newspapers, clothing, rocks, household goods, artifacts, etc., some dating back to the 1700s and all associated with Barstow and the surrounding area. There are restrooms inside the museum and the person minding the store was nice and willing to answer any questions we had. The only drawbacks to this location were how hot it was inside, and it is not well organized, reminds us more of an antique store than a museum. Still, it was worth a look, especially since we were able to find some Geocaches nearby and at least they are doing something to keep the local history alive. Even though we rated this museum “3-stars”, it does not take away from the museum’s purpose and we recommend supporting their efforts with a small donation if you visit."
Thomas B
"Very friendly ladies inside . Made me feel right at home . Kind women who cared about my doggie and made sure he has water . Welcome to come in and sit . Interesting exhibits with Bones ,Rocks , gemstones ,meteorites,old guns, Indian history ,paintings and Historic Barstow relics . I recommend highly ."
Howard Dover
"True hidden gem containing a wealth of knowledge, prestigious artifacts, and humble people. To our understanding, the museum is operated solely by volunteers. Staff were actively organizing/planning future displays during our visit which exhibits just how passionate they are about the preservation of rich history and vivid storytelling. It truly was a pleasure and find it admirable what they do. Additionally, Oliver the Museum Mascot was a wonderful greeter to visitors!"
Braedyn Beal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Barstow, California. It has a small, free parking lot directly in front. It's easily accessible by car and is situated across from Barstow Park.
Yes, there is a small, free parking lot available directly in front of the museum. :car:
Absolutely! The museum is a great educational stop for those exploring historic Route 66, offering insights into the area's past. :route66:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is free! The museum operates on donations, so any contribution is greatly appreciated to support their volunteer staff and exhibits. :moneywithwings:
Yes, donations are gratefully accepted and are essential for the museum's operation, as it's run by volunteers. :gift:
The museum is typically open daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It's always a good idea to verify hours before your visit, especially on holidays. :calendar:
While the museum itself may not allow pets inside, visitors have reported that the staff are very welcoming to dogs and even provide water for them. The adjacent park is also a great place to bring your pet. :paw_prints:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse collection including historical newspapers, photos, clothing, rocks, gemstones, meteorites, old guns, Native American history, paintings, and various Barstow relics dating back to the 1700s. :mag:
Some visitors describe the organization as reminiscent of an antique store rather than a traditional museum, but this also contributes to its unique charm and discovery feel. :sparkles:
Yes, restrooms are available inside the museum for visitors. :toilet:
Some reviews mention that the museum can get quite hot inside, especially during warmer weather. It's advisable to visit during cooler parts of the day. :thermometer_face:
Yes, it's considered a great little stop for young kids learning about local history and Route 66. The variety of artifacts can be very engaging for them. :child:
📸 📸 Photography
While not explicitly stated, most small museums allow personal photography for non-commercial use. It's always best to ask staff if you're unsure. :camera:
The outdoor displays offer unique historical backdrops. Inside, the diverse artifacts, from old tools to vintage clothing, provide plenty of interesting subjects for photos. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the heat, as the museum can get warm. The adjacent park is also a great spot for kids to burn off some energy before or after your visit. The friendly volunteers are often happy to chat and share interesting tidbits, making the experience more interactive for children. Don't forget to check out the outdoor displays for a different perspective on the local history. :child: :park:
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the free parking lot and the adjacent Barstow Park for a complete, cost-free outing. It's a perfect way to spend an hour or two learning about the region's past while keeping your expenses low. Supporting their donation box is a great way to give back to a community-run initiative. :moneywithwings: :park:
🐶 Pet Owners
Take advantage of the adjacent Barstow Park for a walk with your dog before or after your museum visit. The outdoor displays at the museum also offer a chance for your pet to be nearby while you take a quick look. It's a thoughtful touch that makes this local museum stand out for its hospitality. :dog: :park:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Barstow's Past
Beyond the typical museum fare, the Mojave River Valley Museum also boasts an impressive collection of natural wonders. This includes fascinating rocks, gemstones, and meteorites, providing a glimpse into the geological history of the desert landscape. For those interested in the area's indigenous heritage, there are also exhibits on Native American history and artifacts. The museum's commitment to education extends to its outdoor displays, which feature historical items and offer a unique perspective on the region's past. It's a place where history truly comes alive, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone curious about the American West.
One of the most endearing aspects of the museum is its community-driven spirit. Operated solely by volunteers, the staff's passion for local history is palpable. They are often seen actively organizing and planning, demonstrating a deep commitment to their mission. This personal touch makes the visitor experience even more special, with friendly individuals eager to share their knowledge and answer questions. The presence of 'Oliver the Museum Mascot' further adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making visitors feel right at home.
Navigating the Museum Experience
A practical consideration for visitors is the internal temperature. Several reviews mention that the museum can get quite warm, particularly during the summer months. To make your visit more comfortable, it's advisable to plan your trip for the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. The adjacent Barstow Park offers a pleasant outdoor space to cool down or explore before or after your museum visit.
Despite these minor points, the warm and friendly nature of the staff is consistently highlighted. Visitors often feel welcomed and at home, with volunteers happy to share insights and answer questions. This personal interaction is a key part of the museum's charm. The fact that they are welcoming to pets, even providing water for them, further underscores their hospitable approach.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit