Saddleback Butte State Park

Overview

Saddleback Butte State Park was established in 1960 to preserve its high-desert Joshua tree woodland. To the east of the campground and picnic area rises 3,651-foot Saddleback Butte. Key park attractions are the short self-guided Dic Dowen Nature Trail, the Peak Trail climbing 1,000 feet to a dramatic view across the Western Mojave Desert, a Visitor Center featuring natural and cultural history displays, and the unique Joshua Tree/Creosote habitat found only in the Mojave Desert. Springtime brings a show of wildflowers that varies yearly, and fall has clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Summer days are hot but nights are warm with excellent stargazing. Wildlife includes Mountain Bluebirds, Kit Foxes, and the federally-threatened Desert Tortoise.