Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park

About Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park

Ripley Desert Woodland was added to the State Parks in 1988 and is located in the Ripley Valley of the San Bernardino National Forest, north of San Diego, California. In the valley, the remaining plots of native Joshua-Hua and juniper trees have been cleared, the rest for agriculture and housing.

Under Arthur B. and Archie Ripley, this park protects and preserves the native Joshua huas, junipers that once grew in abundance in this valley.

The name "Joshua Tree" is attributed to the early Mormon settlers who saw an image of Joshua with his arms raised as he led the Israelites into the Promised Land. The Joshua tree played an important role in the cultural history of the antelope valley and was sacred to the Indians who inhabited the region.

The actual classification, however, is a member of the lily family, and in the early spring months, creamy white flowers begin to grow on the ends and branches of Joshua. The flowers grow larger and larger over the course of the weeks and last for several months.

We invite you to stroll through the majestic Joshua juniper forest, enjoy its beauty and share with others the importance of preserving this precious resource. Set in a wildflower bed, Joshua is a place of stately beauty; a perfect place for hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, hiking and camping.

For your pleasure, the park offers a variety of self-guided nature trails, hiking and camping opportunities. There are no pits, toilets or running water, but the paths are short due to the height differences.