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DesertUSA is a guide to the American Southwest. Our stories feature topics ranging from rockhounding and boating to desert parks and unique points of interest. DesertUSA’s content includes in depth information about the natural history of the desert regions of the United States.
Just 6 Months till the Quartzite Rock & Mineral Shows
2022 Dates Announced
The Desert Gardens Gem & Mineral Show has announced their 2022 dates. The show runs 7 days a week from 9 am – 5 pm in Quartzite, Arizona. etc. There is a huge variety of rocks, gems, minerals and crystals products for sale at the various booths. Raw rock and mineral specimens from all over the world are represented at this show. You will also find beads, jewelry, home décor products, art and much more. Read more…
Desert Caves and Caving
Speleology
“Underground caves and caverns represent some of the most unique, fascinating (and cool) features of the North American deserts. Many varieties of caves occur in all of the deserts of the Southwest, but are most common in limestone mountains where conifers abound. Cave and karst systems are important because most of the nation’s freshwater resources are groundwater, of which about 25% is located in cave and karst regions. Caves are also repositories of information on natural resources, human history and evolution, containing anthropologic, archaeologic, geologic, paleontologic and mineralogic resources. Read more…
Wild Burros
Equus asinus
The wild burro was first introduced into the Desert Southwest by Spaniards in the 1500s. Early prospectors relied heavily on burros as they trekked long distances across the deserts in search of gold and silver. Many of these burros survived, even though their owners perished under the harsh desert conditions. Many more burros escaped or were released during the settlement of the West. Because of their hardiness, Wild burros have thrived throughout the North American deserts, and their numbers have increased to perhaps 20,000. Read more…
Night Blooming Cereus
Queen of the Night
One of the strangest plants of the desert, the night blooming cereus, is a member of the cactus family that resembles nothing more than a dead bush most of the year. It is rarely seen in the wild because of its inconspicuousness. But for one midsummer’s night each year, its exqusitely scented flower opens as night falls, then closes forever with the first rays of the morning sun. Read more…
News
- Solar Cars to Make Historic Trip on the Santa Fe National Historic Trail to Commemorate the Trail’s 200th Anniversary
- Utah State Route 9 thru Zion Closing Nightly to All Traffic starting July 26th
- Dangling Rope Marina Closed Through 2021
- Lightning Strike Causes Injuries at Grand Canyon National Park
Critter Cam Trail Footage
The secret lives of animals.
If you’re looking for a fun thing to do with your kids, check out our “Break-at-Home” geode kits. This hands on rockhounding experience is a great way for kids to learn about geology, how geodes are formed and to experience the excitement of discovery when they break one open. Learn more about “Break-at-Home” geodes.
An adventure through time. Explore the route used by pioneers on their way to California. The Mojave Road lets your SUV act as a time machine, guiding you on a trail that stretches for 138 miles through country virtually unchanged since prehistoric times. Learn more about the Mojave Road Guide by Dennis Casebier.
