Kelso Train Depot: Your Guide to This Historic Mojave Desert Landmark

Kelso Depot is a historic train depot located in the Mojave National Preserve in California. It was built in 1924 by the Union Pacific Railroad and served as a stop for passenger and freight trains until 1985. The depot was then closed and threatened with demolition, but it was saved by a group of preservationists and reopened in 2005 as a visitor center for the Mojave National Preserve.

The Kelso Depot is a beautiful example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. It is made of red brick and has a white tile roof. The depot has a large waiting room, a ticket office, and a baggage room. There are also several dormitory rooms that were used by railroad employees.

The Kelso Depot is now a popular tourist destination. Visitors can learn about the history of the railroad in the Mojave Desert and the role that the depot played in the development of the region. The depot is also a great place to learn about the natural history of the Mojave Desert. There are several exhibits on the geology, plants, and animals of the desert.

The Kelso Depot is a must-see for anyone visiting the Mojave National Preserve. It is a beautiful and historic building that is full of interesting information about the desert.

Here are some tips for visiting Kelso Depot:

• The depot is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily. For an up-to-date schedule, please see here.
• Admission is free.
• There is a gift shop and a bookstore on-site.
• There are several picnic tables and a playground outside the depot.
• The depot is located about 35 miles south of Baker, California.
• The nearest gas station is in Baker.
• There is no cell phone service in the area.
• Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. Stay hydrated and avoid heat exhaustion!
• The desert can be very hot, so dress in layers and wear sunscreen.
• Be aware of the rattlesnakes and other wildlife in the area.
• Have fun and enjoy your visit to Kelso Depot!