Vasquez Rocks Natural Area is renowned for its dramatic rock formations that jut out of the earth at unusual angles, creating an otherworldly landscape. The rocks are predominantly composed of sandstone and date back millions of years, shaped by the forces of nature over time. Vasquez Rocks is an iconic site that has been featured in numerous television series, movies and documentaries. The site is named after the notorious bandit Tiburcio Vasquez who used these rock formations to hide from the law in 1874. As of today, the site is sought out for hiking, picnics, and horseback riding. Owing to its prehistoric significance, the site was added to the US National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
The Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park makes for an interesting visit when in Los Angeles County. It was established in 1979 and the museum building is on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum showcases the heritage and culture of aboriginal Native Americans with H. Arden Edwards' collection of artifacts and memorabilia. Also on site are nature trails and several picnic spots.
Located in Antelope Valley, the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is an enchanting sight to behold, with a carpet of orange poppies and a few other kinds of wildflowers like owl's clover, goldfield, coreopsis, and lupine draping the expanse. Each of these lends the reserve a beautiful aura, and the pristine natural beauty of the area will not only render you breathless but will also have you marveling at the gorgeousness of the colorful landscape. Although the best time to visit the Poppy Reserve is during the months of spring between March and April when the flowers are in full bloom, calling ahead to check whether it is an ideal time to stop by is advisable.
Unfurling around the eponymous landform which looms over its surroundings, the Saddleback Butte State Park features a striking desert landscape replete with Joshua Tree habitats and diverse wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for coyotes and desert tortoises among other species, or bask in the beauty of blooming wildflowers if you happen to visit between February and May. Hiking excursions to the summit of the butte will reward you with splendid views of the surrounding vistas.
This wonderful sanctuary houses big cats, such as leopards, lions, bobcats, and tigers. The Shambala Preserve cares and protects exotic felines that were either abandoned or suffered from neglect. On select days the Shambala Preserve is open to the public and you can take a safari tour where you get up close to these beautiful creatures. Watch as a huge tiger leaps across his large enclosure or lions take a nap. You'll get closer and learn more than you would at any zoo while knowing that this facility is about helping and caring for these once neglected felines. Visitors must be 18 or older and reservations are required.
Featuring a semi-arid desert landscape enlivened with junipers and Joshuas, Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park invites visitors to take a closer look at the plant life embedded in the cultural and historical fabric of the region. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these natural wonders when they are in full bloom following the arrival of Spring, with colorful wildflowers accentuating their striking beauty. Hiking through this woodland makes for an exhilarating excursion. Visitors can also opt to settle down for a picnic amid the park's picturesque environs.
A Center for feline breeding and research, The Cat House protects 70 endangered feline species from extinction. Visitors can see these animals from a distance of 5 feet (1.5 meters). Some of these include leopards, tigers, jaguars, cougars, Canadian lynx, Bobcat, Margay and Ocelot, among many others. The Cat Center does well to preserve the future of these animals and give them a home where they can breed, as well allow research on all of these 19 species. The institute is run entirely on public funds. For all those who love big wild cats, a visit to The Cat House is a must.
Vasquez Rocks Interpretive Center serves as a gateway to the park's unique geological formations and rich cultural history. It is a modern and informative facility, thoughtfully designed to educate and inspire. Visitors to the interpretive center can explore informative exhibits that delve into the park's distinct rock formations, showcasing their origins and the forces of nature that shaped them over millions of years. There are also educational programs, guided hikes, and special events that cater to visitors of all ages and levels of expertise.
This wonderful sanctuary houses big cats, such as leopards, lions, bobcats, and tigers. The Shambala Preserve cares and protects exotic felines that were either abandoned or suffered from neglect. On select days the Shambala Preserve is open to the public and you can take a safari tour where you get up close to these beautiful creatures. Watch as a huge tiger leaps across his large enclosure or lions take a nap. You'll get closer and learn more than you would at any zoo while knowing that this facility is about helping and caring for these once neglected felines. Visitors must be 18 or older and reservations are required.
Vasquez Rocks Natural Area is renowned for its dramatic rock formations that jut out of the earth at unusual angles, creating an otherworldly landscape. The rocks are predominantly composed of sandstone and date back millions of years, shaped by the forces of nature over time. Vasquez Rocks is an iconic site that has been featured in numerous television series, movies and documentaries. The site is named after the notorious bandit Tiburcio Vasquez who used these rock formations to hide from the law in 1874. As of today, the site is sought out for hiking, picnics, and horseback riding. Owing to its prehistoric significance, the site was added to the US National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
The Bravery Brewing Company is a popular local brewery that's dedicated to the service of the country's veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice. They use fine ingredients and unique brewing techniques to produce beers that are flavorful and have loads of individuality. On offer are over twenty varieties of their core as well as seasonal beers among which the Smoking Gun and Blackberry IPA are favorites. They also sell beer by the barrel and keg. The outdoor sitting area is especially lively and upbeat and is the perfect setting to enjoy some great beers with even better company.