For nearly 30 years, The Wildlands Conservancy’s California Desert Preserves have protected the beauty of the natural world, serving as a refuge for those seeking solace and solitude, and a safe place for family and friends to create lasting memories. After extended closures due to recent storm damage, and an incredible effort made by staff, we are fortunate to invite you back to all three of the California Desert Preserves. However, much work remains ahead of us. 

Floodwaters washed away large sections of Mission Creek Road, severely damaged critical flood control berms at Whitewater Preserve, and did extensive damage to the trails across the Desert region. You can help us continue to recover from the impacts of Tropical Storm Hilary by making a donation, volunteering your time, or sharing this information with family and friends. One hundred percent of your cash gift, no matter the size, will support this ongoing work and the continued stewardship of these cherished landscapes. If you’d like to provide sustaining support throughout the year, consider setting up a monthly recurring gift.

For those who would like to contribute to our recovery through volunteering, the storm has left us with plenty of trail work, especially at Pioneertown Mountains and Whitewater Preserve. Please look out for upcoming volunteer days where we can roll up our sleeves and get our hands in the earth. 

The Wildlands Conservancy’s Desert Preserves are a hub for desert protection, a place of learning, and a place where exclusivity does not exist. In addition to rallying for the protection of more than 1.6 million acres through the Mojave Trails and Sand to Snow National Monuments, with your help, we’ve hosted over a million and a half visitors and provided free outdoor education programs to over 50,000 children to date. These accomplishments would not be possible without your support and are a testament to our shared belief that together, we can change the world.

Thank you all, and welcome back.