In the California desert, there are many reasons to celebrate the National Park Service Centennial and all of our public lands. Especially, given that earlier this year, and after urging from Senator Dianne Feinstein, President Obama designated the Mojave Trails, Sand to Snow, and Castle Mountains National Monuments here. These public lands are now permanently protected for generations to explore and enjoy.  

To mark the Centennial and the creation of Mojave Trails National Monument, Amargosa Conservancy and Por la Creación Faith-based Alliance organized a camping trip to encourage local families and residents to explore one of these special places.

Here is how Estrella Ruiz, from Victorville, CA described her experience: