· US

California City

California City, California, United States

California City, located in the heart of the Mojave Desert in California, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by curious travelers. This unique city is known for its vast open spaces, stunning desert landscapes, and a…

#California City#California#United States#Desert#Remote

1/6

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into California City.

Top Hotels in California City

Top Flights to California City

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in California City.

Tours

California City Central Park Exploration

Explore the vast California City Central Park known for its scenic views and family-friendly environment.

Desert Tortoise Natural Area Visit

Discover the natural habitat of the desert tortoise, an endangered species native to the area.

Shopping

Cal City Aviators Shopping Tour

Visit the local stores and boutiques in the area, offering a unique shopping experience.

Outdoor

California City Motorsports Park Adventure

Experience the thrill of off-road motorsports and racing in the desert.

Silver Saddle Ranch & Club Escape

Relax and enjoy recreational activities at the Silver Saddle Ranch, offering a combination of adventure and luxury.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in California City.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of California City, California, is around 14,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

California City

Jan

15°2°

Feb

18°4°

Mar

21°6°

Apr

25°9°

May

30°13°

Jun

35°18°

Jul

39°22°

Aug

38°21°

Sep

34°17°

Oct

27°11°

Nov

20°5°

Dec

15°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on California City.

What people love

California City, located in California, United States, offers several pros for travelers:

Unspoiled Natural Beauty: California City is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, including the nearby Red Rock Canyon State Park and Mojave National Preserve. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and camping in these beautiful natural areas.
Peace and Quiet: California City is known for its tranquility and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Affordable Accommodation: Compared to other popular tourist destinations in California, California City offers more affordable accommodation options, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers.
Unique Attractions: California City is home to unique attractions such as the California City Central Park, the California City Municipal Airport, and the California City Raceway. These attractions offer visitors a glimpse into the local culture and history of the area.
Outdoor Recreation: With its vast open spaces and desert environment, California City is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as off-roading, bird-watching, and stargazing in this unique setting.

Overall, California City offers a peaceful and affordable escape for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of the desert landscape in California.

What to know

California City is a unique destination in California, known for its vast open spaces and desert landscapes. However, there are some cons to consider before traveling to California City:

Limited amenities: California City is a relatively small city with limited amenities compared to larger cities in California. Visitors may find fewer options for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Extreme weather: California City experiences hot and dry weather throughout much of the year, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months. Travelers should be prepared for the intense heat and sun exposure.
Remote location: California City is located in a remote area of the Mojave Desert, making it less accessible than other destinations in California. Travelers should be prepared for long drives and limited public transportation options.
Limited tourist attractions: While California City offers unique outdoor activities such as off-roading and hiking, it may lack the variety of tourist attractions found in larger cities. Visitors seeking a wide range of cultural and entertainment options may find California City lacking in this aspect.
Wildlife encounters: The desert environment of California City is home to various wildlife species, including snakes, scorpions, and coyotes. Travelers should take precautions to avoid encounters with potentially dangerous wildlife.

Overall, while California City offers a unique desert experience, travelers should be aware of the limitations and challenges associated with visiting this remote destination.

California City, located in the northern Antelope Valley in Kern County, California, is a planned city that has an interesting history. It was incorporated on December 10, 1965, and is the third-largest city in California by land area, covering over 200 square miles.

Founding and Development

1958: The city was founded by real estate developer and sociology professor Nat Mendelsohn. Mendelsohn envisioned California City as a major metropolis, hoping it would rival Los Angeles in size and population. He purchased 82,000 acres of Mojave Desert land for his ambitious project.
Mendelsohn's plan included a central park with an artificial lake, a golf course, and a robust infrastructure grid laid out for the future city.

Significant Events

1960s-1970s: Although initial development began, the city did not grow as Mendelsohn had anticipated. While infrastructure such as roads and some residential areas were developed, the city did not attract the expected number of residents or businesses.
1980s: The city experienced some growth due to its proximity to Edwards Air Force Base and the development of its recreational vehicle (RV) park and golf courses.
2000s: California City began to see increased residential development as people sought more affordable housing away from major urban centers.

Historical Figures

Nat Mendelsohn: The founder of California City, he played a crucial role in the vision and initial development of the city, although his dream of creating a metropolis was not fully realized.

Important Landmarks

Central Park: At 80 acres, this is one of the largest municipal parks in California and features a lake, sports fields, and picnic areas.
California City Municipal Airport: Serving the city, it is used for general aviation and is a hub for skydiving enthusiasts.
Borax Bill Park: Named after the famous mule teams that once hauled borax out of the Mojave Desert, this park is a popular spot for off-road enthusiasts.
Desert Tortoise Preserve: Located nearby, this preserve is dedicated to the protection of the desert tortoise and its habitat.

Challenges and Modern Developments

California City has faced challenges typical of many planned communities, such as slower-than-expected growth, infrastructure maintenance, and economic diversification.
The city has been attracting retirees and those seeking affordable living, contributing to a steady increase in population.

California City remains a unique experiment in urban planning, demonstrating both the potential and challenges of creating a city from the ground up in a remote desert location. Despite not reaching its founder's original vision, it continues to grow and develop as a community.