Zzyzx Soda Springs
A surprising desert oasis and historic site in the Mojave National Preserve, offering a unique glimpse into the past and present.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Zzyzx Soda Springs
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surprising desert oasis and historic site in the Mojave National Preserve, offering a unique glimpse into the past and present.
"Worth the little detour. Super cool scenery and oasis."
🚗 Take the Scenic Detour
Worth the short drive off I-15 for unique scenery and a historical break.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Great spot for a walk and photos, but do not enter buildings.
Quick Facts
Rating
3.7 · 12 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Desert Oasis
Central Springs Area
Discover a surprising pocket of life and water amidst the arid Mojave Desert. A unique geological and historical site.
Historic Soda Springs Desert Resort Ruins
Abandoned Structures
Explore the remnants of a bygone era at the former health spa. A photographer's dream with a rich, albeit controversial, past.
Mojave National Preserve Scenery
Surrounding Landscape
Enjoy the vast, rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert. Perfect for a scenic drive and a break from the highway.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Detour Off the Beaten Path
Respect the Active Campus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Take the Scenic Detour
Worth the short drive off I-15 for unique scenery and a historical break.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Great spot for a walk and photos, but do not enter buildings.
💧 Discover the Springs
Experience the surprising desert oasis and learn about its unique geology.
📚 Read Up on History
Understanding Curtis Springer's story adds depth to your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Take the Scenic Detour
Worth the short drive off I-15 for unique scenery and a historical break.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Great spot for a walk and photos, but do not enter buildings.
💧 Discover the Springs
Experience the surprising desert oasis and learn about its unique geology.
📚 Read Up on History
Understanding Curtis Springer's story adds depth to your visit.
📸 Perfect for Photos
The ruins and desert landscape offer great photographic opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often find Zzyzx Soda Springs to be a worthwhile and scenic detour, appreciating the unique desert oasis and historical remnants. However, some note that it's an active campus and not an abandoned site, advising against entering buildings. The historical context of Curtis Springer adds an interesting layer for those who research it beforehand.
"Drive a few miles off the I-15 and take a walk! Beautiful spot to take a break from driving."
j tulli
"NOT ABANDONED. This is an active California State University campus. Do NOT enter the rooms.
That being said, it is a beautiful place to hike and take pictures."
Boyd Edmonds
"worth the little detour. Super cool scenery and oasis."
Gladius Torwusch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take the Zzyzx Road exit off Interstate 15. The drive is a few miles into the Mojave National Preserve, offering a scenic detour from the main highway.
Zzyzx Road is generally paved for a significant portion, making it accessible for most vehicles. However, conditions can vary, so drive cautiously.
Yes, a regular car can reach Zzyzx Soda Springs. The road is usually well-maintained for the initial stretch.
It's a worthwhile detour for those seeking scenery and a unique historical stop, offering a break from the typical slog.
The nearest major city is Las Vegas, Nevada, which is a drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the grounds of Zzyzx Soda Springs. It's part of the public lands managed by the National Park Service.
As an outdoor area and active campus, Zzyzx Soda Springs is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, do not enter any buildings.
Yes, the grounds are accessible year-round, though visiting during cooler months like spring and fall is recommended for comfort.
The primary restriction is that visitors must not enter any buildings, as it is an active university campus.
Yes, Zzyzx Soda Springs is located within the Mojave National Preserve and managed by the National Park Service (NPS).
📸 📸 Photography
The abandoned resort structures, the desert oasis, and the surrounding Mojave landscape offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is subject to NPS regulations within the Mojave National Preserve. Check current NPS guidelines before flying.
Absolutely. The vast desert vistas and unique geological features make it a prime location for landscape photographers.
The main restriction is to respect the active campus and not photograph or enter private research facilities.
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for desert photography.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic grounds, admire the desert oasis, take photos of the ruins, and enjoy the unique Mojave Desert scenery. +1
Yes, it's a beautiful spot to take a break from driving, offering a unique landscape and a chance to walk around.
It was formerly the site of the Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Spa, established by Curtis Springer, and is now an active research campus.
While not formal trails, the grounds offer opportunities for walking and exploring the unique desert environment.
You might spot desert-dwelling animals like lizards, birds, and possibly coyotes in the surrounding Mojave National Preserve.
Social
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