Desert Discovery Center
The Desert Discovery Center is temporarily closed.
For the latest news and events at the Desert Discovery Center, please visit the Facebook page.
Overview
The Desert Discovery Center (DDC) is a 7,000 square foot facility surrounded by 12 acres of public land located in the heart of Barstow, CA. The DDC is comprised of a unique partnership between several government, educational, and non-profit organizations originally established in 2005. They include the BLM who own the DDC and surrounding property, National Park Service, Barstow Unified School District, Barstow Community College, Mojave River Valley Museum, City of Barstow, National Park Conservation Association, Off-Limits Design, The Mojave Desert & Mountain Recycling Authority, Southern California Edison and Main Street Murals non-profit Corporation.
Exhibits
Old Woman Meteorite
It is 38" long, 30" wide and 34" high. It's mostly composed of iron, contains about 6% nickel and has trace amounts of cobalt, phosphorus, chromium and sulphur.
The meteorite was discovered in late 1975 in the southwestern portion of the Old Woman Mountains. Its authenticity was verified by Dr. Roy Clarke of the Smithsonian Institute. In 1980 the Smithsonian sent the meteorite back to the California Desert where it was placed on permanent display at the Desert Discovery Center in Barstow where it continues to amaze and inspire our visitors.
Native Plant and Animal Habitat
A native plant and animal habitat is also housed in the secret garden and pond area where visitors can enjoy the peaceful environment with art installations and meet our popular resident tortoises.
Phone
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
From Highway 15, exit north onto Barstow Rd. (Also Hwy 247). Travel .3 miles. The Desert Discovery Center will be on the right.