25 Secluded Towns Deep in the Desert Region of Southeast California

Let me take you to the quiet corners of Southeast California, where the desert cradles towns so secluded they seem to have forgotten the world beyond their borders. These places are hidden in valleys, tucked behind jagged mountains, or nestled along rivers that carve their own paths through the arid landscape. With their unchanged rhythms and rooted histories, these towns feel like a gentle secret shared only by the few who seek them out.

Here, life moves at its own pace, untouched by the rush of modernity, offering a rare stillness where the desert whispers its stories. In this collection of 25 secluded towns, you’ll find no crowds or noise, just the peaceful embrace of nature and history.

Some are forgotten remnants of the past, others quietly thriving in their own timeless way. Whether it’s for the solitude, the vastness of the landscape, or the pull of nostalgia, these towns offer an invitation to step away from it all and embrace the quiet beauty of the desert.

25. Mecca

Mecca is a small community on the edge of the Salton Sea, offering breathtaking views of the desert and agricultural lands. With its sparse population, Mecca remains relatively untouched, perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat amidst nature’s beauty. Despite being close to the bustling Coachella Valley, Mecca’s remote location allows visitors to experience true desert solitude. Its unique combination of salt flats, wildlife, and agricultural fields offers a peaceful escape for those who enjoy nature’s contrasts.

While Mecca may be known for its agriculture, especially dates and other crops grown in the nearby Coachella Valley, it remains a serene, secluded haven. Visitors can explore nearby nature reserves or simply enjoy the solitude that comes with this quiet desert town.

Mecca’s charm is enhanced by its proximity to the Salton Sea, where birdwatchers and nature lovers can enjoy the peaceful environment. The surrounding desert landscape provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and photography, making it an ideal spot for adventurers looking for tranquility.

Where is Mecca?

Mecca lies in Riverside County, situated near the southeastern edge of the Salton Sea. Its secluded nature comes from the surrounding agricultural lands and desert terrain, which keeps the town quiet and far removed from larger population centers.

Visitors can easily reach Mecca by driving along State Route 86, which runs through the Imperial Valley, offering an opportunity to experience the calm desert landscape along the way.

24. Niland

Nestled on the southeastern shore of the Salton Sea, Niland is a quiet desert town with a population of under 1,000 people. Known for its nearby attractions like the Salvation Mountain art installation, Niland offers a unique mix of artistic charm and desert isolation. The town’s close proximity to the Salton Sea adds to its allure, offering a peaceful and somewhat eerie landscape perfect for those who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.

The small, tight-knit community makes Niland a perfect place for those seeking both a sense of peace and creative inspiration. It remains largely unaffected by urban sprawl, offering solitude amid expansive desert views.

Niland’s tranquil atmosphere and the colorful art installations nearby provide a perfect balance of artistic exploration and quiet retreat. Visitors can enjoy the serenity of the area while engaging with the unique cultural elements scattered around the town.

Where is Niland?

Niland is located in Imperial County, California, and lies just a few miles from the Salton Sea. The town is positioned between the cities of Brawley and the larger Coachella Valley area, making it accessible but still removed from bustling urban life.

Visitors can reach Niland via State Route 111, a road that takes them through vast agricultural and desert landscapes.

23. Bombay Beach

Bombay Beach is one of the most intriguing desert towns near the Salton Sea, with a population of just over 300 people. Once a popular resort destination, it has since transformed into a community that attracts visitors seeking quiet solitude or the unique vibe of this isolated place. The town’s proximity to the Salton Sea, with its desolate landscapes and eerie atmosphere, creates a captivating yet peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the crowds.

Bombay Beach is well-known for its artistic expression, with many abandoned structures and art installations scattered throughout the area. The combination of nature, art, and isolation provides visitors with a distinct experience, away from the noise of larger cities.

The town’s unique blend of desert beauty and artistic flair creates a truly one-of-a-kind destination, perfect for those seeking inspiration or simply a quiet retreat in the vast open desert.

Where is Bombay Beach?

Bombay Beach is located in the southeastern part of the Salton Sea, within Imperial County, California. It is accessible via State Route 86, making it an easy stop for those exploring the desert or heading towards nearby towns like Niland.

The town’s location next to the Salton Sea contributes to its distinctive character and its reputation as a quiet, artistic community.

22. Desert Center

Desert Center is a small, quiet community tucked away in the southern California desert, offering a unique historical and natural landscape. Originally a bustling spot along the historic Route 66, Desert Center is now a peaceful, isolated town that has attracted both history buffs and nature lovers. Despite its small size, Desert Center is a gateway to nearby attractions like the Joshua Tree National Park and the nearby desert wildlife.

The area around Desert Center offers opportunities for hiking and exploring, making it a perfect destination for those who love the outdoors. It remains an ideal location for those seeking solitude and a connection to the desert’s quiet beauty.

Desert Center is known for its historical Route 66 charm and the scenic desert landscapes that surround it, creating a serene environment for visitors to enjoy and explore.

Where is Desert Center?

Desert Center is located in Riverside County, approximately halfway between the Coachella Valley and the Arizona border. It sits off Interstate 10, making it easy to visit while traveling through the desert region.

The town is set amidst vast desert expanses, offering a serene and remote setting far from major cities.

21. Chiriaco Summit

Chiriaco Summit is a small desert town with a unique history, originally established as a gas station and restaurant stop along Route 66. Today, it’s a quiet pit stop for travelers heading toward the desert and is also home to the General Patton Memorial Museum. With a population of fewer than 100 people, Chiriaco Summit maintains a remote, peaceful atmosphere perfect for those interested in exploring desert history and solitude.

Despite its small size, the town offers rich historical insights and serves as a perfect launching point for nearby desert adventures. Its historical significance and remote location make it a fascinating yet secluded destination for history enthusiasts and solitude seekers.

Chiriaco Summit stands out for its unique role in desert history, providing a quiet and reflective space for visitors to explore the past while embracing the calm of the surrounding desert.

Where is Chiriaco Summit?

Chiriaco Summit is located along Interstate 10 in Riverside County, California, between the cities of Indio and Blythe. The town’s location in the desert makes it a secluded retreat, far from larger population centers.

Travelers can easily access it from the interstate, offering an ideal stop for those on a cross-country road trip through the desert.

20. Palo Verde

Palo Verde is a tiny town nestled along the banks of the Colorado River, offering stunning views of the surrounding desert. With a population of just over 1,000, Palo Verde is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect place for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Its proximity to the river makes it a popular spot for boating and fishing, offering visitors a refreshing escape from the desert heat.

The area surrounding Palo Verde remains sparsely developed, which adds to its charm and tranquility. Those looking to immerse themselves in desert beauty and enjoy water activities will find Palo Verde to be an ideal getaway.

Palo Verde’s tranquil environment and water-based recreation opportunities make it a unique and peaceful destination for anyone seeking both adventure and solitude in the desert.

Where is Palo Verde?

Palo Verde is located in the southeastern part of California, in Riverside County, and is situated along the Colorado River. It lies close to the Arizona border, making it a secluded escape for those wanting to experience the calm desert landscapes.

Visitors can access Palo Verde from the nearby Interstate 10 and California State Route 78.

19. Thermal

Thermal, located in the Coachella Valley, is a small desert town with a population of just over 1,000 residents. Known for its agricultural industry, Thermal is surrounded by vast fields and desert landscapes, offering a peaceful, rural atmosphere. Although it remains small and quiet, Thermal has recently seen some growth due to its proximity to the larger city of Indio, making it a hidden gem in the region.

The area offers a serene lifestyle for those looking to escape urban life while being close enough to enjoy Coachella Valley’s amenities. Its remote location and farming community provide a sense of tranquility and privacy, making it ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life amidst the desert.

Thermal is also home to several festivals and events that highlight its agricultural heritage, adding a touch of local culture to its serene environment.

Where is Thermal?

Thermal is situated in Riverside County, in the Coachella Valley, just a short drive from the city of Indio. The town’s location between larger cities and expansive agricultural fields offers visitors a quiet and secluded environment.

Travelers can easily access Thermal via the nearby State Route 86, which runs through the valley, offering scenic views of desert farms and natural landscapes.

18. Corn Springs

Corn Springs is a forgotten oasis nestled deep within the Chuckwalla Mountains, once a stop for Native American travelers and later Depression-era miners. Now it’s home to nothing but silence, saguaros, and sunbaked petroglyphs.

The only visitors are off-grid campers, desert rats, and the occasional geologist trying to make sense of the volcanic ridges that scrape the horizon. There are no shops, no restaurants—just palm trees growing from a cracked wash and the remnants of a life that once flickered here.

The spring still flows, and with it, a trickle of wildlife—desert bighorn, foxes, and mourning doves—reminding you that even the driest places pulse with life. You’ll find an abandoned miner’s cabin, rusting bedsprings, and the slow quiet that stretches time.

Corn Springs is not a town in the civic sense anymore. It’s more of a place carved from memory and grit, perfect for those looking to vanish into the landscape for a while.

Where is Corn Springs?

Corn Springs lies in Riverside County within the Chuckwalla Mountains Wilderness, roughly 10 miles south of Interstate 10 between Desert Center and Blythe. Accessible via the rugged Corn Springs Road, it sits far from any urban grid, shielded by harsh desert and folded mountain ranges.

To reach it, take I-10 east from Desert Center, exit at Chuckwalla Valley Road, then follow dirt tracks south through open desert. The road gets rough, but the remoteness pays off with utter stillness and stars sharp enough to cut the sky.

17. Idyllwild

Idyllwild is a charming mountain town nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, offering a peaceful retreat from the desert heat below. Known for its artsy vibe, Idyllwild has attracted musicians, artists, and nature lovers for decades. With a population of just over 3,000, this town offers a perfect mix of artistic expression and outdoor adventure, making it a unique escape from the city.

The town is famous for its beautiful hiking trails, including those that lead to the summit of Mount San Jacinto. Idyllwild’s cool, pine-scented air and tranquil atmosphere make it a welcome contrast to the arid desert below.

Idyllwild is also home to a thriving arts community, with galleries, live music venues, and festivals that add to its allure as a creative retreat.

Where is Idyllwild?

Idyllwild is located in Riverside County, in the San Jacinto Mountains, approximately 80 miles southeast of Los Angeles. Its location above the desert floor offers visitors a cool, forested escape that feels worlds away from the surrounding desert landscapes.

To reach Idyllwild, visitors typically take Highway 243, which winds through the mountains, providing stunning views of the surrounding terrain.

16. Sky Valley

Sky Valley is a small, quiet community nestled between the Coachella Valley and the San Bernardino Mountains. Known for its peaceful, residential atmosphere, Sky Valley offers a quiet escape with scenic views of the desert and the surrounding mountain ranges. The town’s remote location makes it an ideal place for those seeking privacy and tranquility in a desert environment.

Sky Valley offers limited amenities, making it perfect for visitors who enjoy the simplicity of desert life. The town is particularly popular among those who want to avoid the larger crowds of the nearby resort towns while still enjoying the beauty of the desert landscape.

The area’s rugged desert beauty and its seclusion provide a serene backdrop for those who want to connect with nature without the distractions of city life.

Where is Sky Valley?

Sky Valley is located in Riverside County, just to the east of the city of Palm Springs in the Coachella Valley. It lies near the San Bernardino Mountains, offering a secluded atmosphere with sweeping desert vistas.

Visitors can easily reach Sky Valley via Interstate 10 or through local desert roads that lead into the valley.

15. Mecca Hills

Mecca Hills is an isolated desert area known for its stunning rock formations and rugged landscapes. The area is home to the Mecca Hills Wilderness Area, where visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in a serene environment. With its remote location, Mecca Hills offers a tranquil escape into the desert, providing ample opportunities to connect with nature.

The landscape here is characterized by dramatic canyons, jagged cliffs, and expansive desert views, making it a favorite for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. Despite its proximity to the larger Coachella Valley, Mecca Hills remains a peaceful and secluded destination, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

Its rugged beauty and isolation make Mecca Hills a hidden gem for those seeking adventure and serenity in the California desert.

Where is Mecca Hills?

Mecca Hills is located in Riverside County, just east of the Salton Sea and near the town of Mecca. The area is easily accessible from State Route 86, which runs through the Imperial Valley, offering scenic drives and views of the surrounding desert terrain.

The remote nature of the Mecca Hills Wilderness Area ensures its seclusion, providing visitors with a truly peaceful desert experience.

14. Thousand Palms

Thousand Palms is a serene desert town located in the Coachella Valley, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquil landscapes. With a population of under 5,000, it offers a peaceful environment for residents and visitors alike. The town is named after the thousand-year-old palm trees in the nearby Thousand Palms Oasis, a lush area that attracts both wildlife and nature lovers.

The town’s seclusion is enhanced by its proximity to the larger cities of the valley, yet it remains a quiet, rural haven away from the hustle and bustle. Thousand Palms is also known for its proximity to the Coachella Valley Preserve, a fantastic location for outdoor activities like birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife observation.

Whether you’re looking to explore nature or simply enjoy the quiet desert life, Thousand Palms offers a unique, peaceful experience.

Where is Thousand Palms?

Thousand Palms is located in Riverside County, California, in the heart of the Coachella Valley. It is situated between the cities of Palm Springs and Indio, offering easy access to nearby desert attractions while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere.

Visitors can reach Thousand Palms from Interstate 10 or by taking the scenic roads through the valley, surrounded by vast desert landscapes.

13. Indio Hills

Indio Hills is a small desert town located just south of the city of Indio, offering a blend of quiet living and proximity to the larger Coachella Valley. This town is home to a diverse landscape that includes desert scrub, mountain views, and hidden hiking trails. It’s a great spot for those looking to experience desert life with a more secluded feel, far from the crowds of Palm Springs or Indio.

The area’s isolation provides ample privacy and tranquility, perfect for people who enjoy nature and solitude. Residents and visitors can enjoy the beauty of the desert, with opportunities to explore the nearby Indio Hills Palms State Park and the surrounding mountain trails.

Indio Hills offers a unique mix of desert isolation and accessibility to the valley’s amenities.

Where is Indio Hills?

Indio Hills is situated in Riverside County, to the south of Indio, within the Coachella Valley. Its location along the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains ensures it remains a peaceful and secluded area, with great access to both desert wilderness and nearby urban areas.

It is easily accessible from Interstate 10, allowing travelers to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Coachella Valley while heading towards more remote desert locations.

12. Cahuilla

Cahuilla is a quiet, remote town located in the eastern part of Riverside County, surrounded by the vast desert landscape of the Coachella Valley. The town, which is home to a small population, is known for its rich Native American heritage, particularly that of the Cahuilla tribe, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. Today, it remains a peaceful place, offering a glimpse into the area’s cultural history while maintaining a strong sense of desert isolation.

The town is surrounded by open desert, with minimal development, offering a perfect setting for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature. Cahuilla offers a rare combination of natural beauty, history, and seclusion, making it a great stop for those exploring the desert.

Cahuilla’s remote nature allows for true tranquility and an authentic desert experience.

Where is Cahuilla?

Cahuilla is located in Riverside County, in the southern part of the Coachella Valley. It lies near the town of Anza and is surrounded by expansive desert lands, offering a secluded environment that feels worlds away from the valley’s more populated areas.

Visitors can access Cahuilla by taking local desert roads, with the journey offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

11. Joshua Tree Village

Joshua Tree Village is a small desert town located in the Mojave Desert, just a short distance from the famous Joshua Tree National Park. Known for its iconic Joshua trees and rugged desert landscapes, this village offers a unique combination of art, nature, and seclusion. The town has a thriving local arts scene, with galleries, live music, and events that draw artists, musicians, and visitors from all over.

Although it’s small, Joshua Tree Village is a cultural hotspot for those who want to explore the desert while enjoying a vibrant, creative community. The town’s location, nestled between the park and the surrounding desert, provides both privacy and a chance to connect with nature.

Joshua Tree Village offers visitors the perfect opportunity to explore the desert’s beauty while enjoying the solitude and serenity of a small town.

Where is Joshua Tree Village?

Joshua Tree Village is located in Riverside County, just outside Joshua Tree National Park. It lies along Highway 62, which makes it easily accessible to travelers heading to the park or exploring the Mojave Desert region.

The village’s proximity to the national park ensures that visitors can easily access the park’s natural wonders while enjoying the peaceful environment of this small desert community.

10. Blythe

Nestled along the Colorado River, it serves as a gateway to the desert’s natural beauty and a hub for outdoor recreation. With its warm climate and scenic landscapes, Blythe offers a unique blend of tranquility and activity.

The city is known for its proximity to the Blythe Intaglios, ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor by Native American cultures. These mysterious figures are a testament to the region’s rich history and attract visitors from around the world.

Blythe’s location makes it a popular destination for boating, fishing, and kayaking, providing endless opportunities for adventure. Despite its desert surroundings, Blythe boasts a welcoming community and a variety of amenities, making it a great base for exploring the area’s natural and cultural treasures.

Where is Blythe?

Blythe is situated in eastern Riverside County, approximately 224 miles east of Los Angeles and 150 miles west of Phoenix. Its location along Interstate 10 makes it easily accessible for travelers seeking a desert escape.

The city is also near the Arizona border, offering a convenient stop for those journeying between California and the Southwest. Visitors can reach Blythe by following Interstate 10, which runs through the heart of the city.

The drive offers stunning views of the Colorado Desert’s vast landscapes, with the river providing a refreshing contrast to the arid surroundings. Blythe’s position along the Colorado River enhances its appeal as a destination for water-based activities and relaxation.

The city’s accessibility and natural beauty make it a unique and inviting destination for those looking to experience the charm of California’s desert region. Whether you’re drawn by its historical landmarks or its outdoor adventures, Blythe has something to offer every traveler.

9. Ocotillo Wells

Ocotillo Wells is a small community with an approximate population of 200 people, known primarily as an off-road enthusiast’s haven. The vast desert landscapes here offer endless opportunities for off-highway vehicle recreation, attracting me and others who love the thrill of exploring open terrain.

While tourism related to off-roading is a key industry, the area remains largely undeveloped, with large properties that provide ample privacy.

What makes Ocotillo Wells secluded is its expansive desert setting and distance from bustling city life, allowing residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the wide-open spaces of the California desert.

Where is Ocotillo Wells?

Located in San Diego County, Ocotillo Wells sits east of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Its seclusion is heightened by the surrounding desert and the sparse population spread across large plots of land.

To get there, I usually take State Route 78, a scenic drive that winds through the desert and makes it clear just how far removed this place is from urban areas. The isolation is part of its charm, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking adventure and serenity in equal measure.

8. Essex

Essex is an isolated community along the historic Route 66, with a tiny population that hovers around 100 residents. This town offers a peaceful environment, with minimal traffic and a close-knit community feel that I find heartwarming.

The main industry here has historically been providing services to travelers on Route 66, but with the decline of the highway’s prominence, Essex has become a quiet waypoint.

Its seclusion is due in part to its remote desert location, surrounded by mountains and miles away from major cities, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds.

Where is Essex?

Essex is situated in San Bernardino County, nestled in the Mojave Desert between Barstow and Needles. The town’s remote location along an old stretch of Route 66 adds to its secluded nature.

Reaching Essex involves traveling along Interstate 40 and then diverting onto smaller desert roads, a route that I find both desolate and beautiful. The vast, open desert around Essex contributes to its isolation, providing a serene backdrop that’s perfect for reflection and solitude.

7. Goffs

Goffs is a remote desert outpost with a rich history dating back to the mining and railroad days of the early 20th century. With a population of fewer than 25 people, it’s a place where I feel like I’ve stepped back in time.

The main attraction here is the historic Goffs Schoolhouse, now a museum that offers insights into the area’s past. There are no major industries in Goffs today, which adds to its tranquil atmosphere.

The vast stretches of uninhabited land and the quiet surroundings make Goffs a perfect spot for those seeking a secluded retreat.

Where is Goffs?

Located in the eastern Mojave Desert of San Bernardino County, Goffs lies along the old Route 66, far from the hustle of urban centers. Its seclusion is due to both its small population and its geographic isolation amid desert landscapes.

To get there, I take the Interstate 40 east towards Needles, then venture onto the historic Route 66. The journey through expansive deserts and distant mountains underscores Goffs’ remoteness, making it a hidden gem off the beaten path.

6. Vidal

Vidal is a tiny community near the Colorado River with a population of just a few dozen residents. The town is surrounded by undeveloped land, offering an abundance of natural beauty and privacy that I find truly refreshing.

Agriculture and small-scale trade have historically been part of Vidal’s local economy, but its main allure today is the seclusion it provides. The absence of urban noise and the vast desert landscapes make Vidal ideal for privacy seekers and those looking to reconnect with nature.

Where is Vidal?

Situated in San Bernardino County, Vidal is located near the California-Arizona border, not far from Parker, Arizona. Its seclusion stems from both its remote desert location and its distance from major highways and cities.

I usually reach Vidal by taking U.S. Route 95, which runs through sparsely populated areas, highlighting the town’s isolated setting. The surrounding desert and the nearby Whipple Mountains contribute to the sense of being far removed from the bustle of everyday life.

5. Calipatria

Calipatria is a small city in Imperial County, California, known for its distinctive claim as the lowest incorporated city in the Western Hemisphere. Situated at an elevation of 180 feet below sea level, Calipatria offers a fascinating blend of desert landscapes and agricultural charm.

The city is surrounded by vast fields and farms, reflecting its strong agricultural roots. Visitors can explore nearby attractions like Salvation Mountain, a colorful art installation that has become a symbol of creativity and spirituality in the desert.

Calipatria’s serene environment and sunny climate make it an inviting destination for those seeking a quiet retreat amidst unique surroundings. With its rich history and welcoming atmosphere, Calipatria stands out as a distinctive desert community.

Where is Calipatria?

Calipatria is located in the northern part of Imperial County, approximately 23 miles north of El Centro and 50 miles from the Mexico border. Its position along State Route 111 makes it easily accessible for visitors traveling through Southern California’s desert region.

The city is a short drive from notable destinations like the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The surrounding area offers stunning views of the Colorado Desert, with its vast open spaces and rugged terrain.

Calipatria’s unique location below sea level, combined with its proximity to cultural and natural attractions, makes it a fascinating stop for those exploring the Imperial Valley. Whether you’re drawn by its history, art, or agriculture, Calipatria offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of the desert.

4. Newberry Springs

Newberry Springs is a spread-out community with agricultural roots, boasting a population of about 2,500 people. Known for its pistachio orchards and man-made lakes, I appreciate the blend of farming life and serene landscapes here.

The main industries include agriculture and some tourism, with spots like the historic Bagdad Cafe attracting visitors.

What makes Newberry Springs secluded is its location away from dense population centers in the Mojave Desert, providing residents with large properties and plenty of space.

Where is Newberry Springs?

Situated in San Bernardino County, Newberry Springs lies east of Barstow along Interstate 40. Its seclusion comes from its expansive rural setting and the dispersal of homes over a wide area.

Getting there is straightforward via I-40, but the transition from urban to vast desert landscapes highlights the town’s isolated charm. I find that the open skies and quiet surroundings make it a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle away from city noise.

3. Amboy

Amboy is a historic desert town along the old Route 66, with a population of less than 10 people. The iconic Roy’s Motel and Café is a landmark that I always enjoy visiting, a relic of the golden age of American road trips.

There are few industries here today, but its volcanic landscapes, including the Amboy Crater, offer unique opportunities for exploration. Amboy’s seclusion is profound, surrounded by endless desert and distant from major cities, making it perfect for those who appreciate solitude and desert beauty.

Where is Amboy?

Amboy is located in San Bernardino County, roughly halfway between Barstow and Needles along the historic Route 66. Its remote location contributes significantly to its secluded atmosphere.

Reaching Amboy involves a journey through vast, empty stretches of desert, which I find both humbling and exhilarating.

The absence of major roads and the expansive Mojave Desert that envelops the town enhance its sense of isolation, making it a unique destination for intrepid travelers.

2. Landers

Landers is a rural area known for its spacious properties and natural surroundings, with a population of approximately 2,600 people. Home to the Integratron, a unique dome structure where I often go for sound baths and relaxation, Landers offers a mix of quirky attractions and peaceful living.

The community here is tight-knit, with the main industries being small-scale agriculture and tourism related to its unique sites. Landers is secluded due to its location far from urban centers, offering quiet desert living and a sky full of stars at night.

Where is Landers?

Located in San Bernardino County, Landers sits north of Joshua Tree National Park. Its seclusion arises from the expansive desert that surrounds it and the limited development in the area.

To get there, I usually drive through Yucca Valley, heading north into increasingly open and quiet landscapes.

The journey highlights the transition from populated areas to the serene isolation that Landers provides, making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and a connection with nature.

1. Wonder Valley

Wonder Valley is an unincorporated community east of Twentynine Palms, with a sparse population spread across vast open spaces. I am drawn to its solitude amidst the Mojave Desert, where large lots and minimal development allow for an unparalleled connection with the natural environment.

The main industries are limited, with some art and music communities finding a home here. What makes Wonder Valley truly secluded is the expansive desert landscape that seems to stretch endlessly, offering a peaceful retreat away from the noise of civilization.

Where is Wonder Valley?

Wonder Valley is located in San Bernardino County, east of Joshua Tree National Park and Twentynine Palms. Its seclusion is due to both its remote desert location and the low density of homes and people.

I find that getting there involves a drive along Amboy Road, a route that emphasizes the vastness of the surrounding desert. The quiet and expansive environment of Wonder Valley makes it a haven for artists, writers, and anyone seeking inspiration from solitude and natural beauty.