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Kelso Depot

Kelso, CA

History

A Mission Revival railroad station from 1924, alone in the Mojave and now the visitor center of Mojave National Preserve. Freight trains still thunder past.

Nearest town
Kelso, CA
Category
History & culture
GPS
35.0122, -115.6531

Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.

Good to know

Best time to go

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

The most pleasant months are usually March–April and October–November. Still fine, with some compromises, in May, September and December–February. Hot in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

Featured in these trip guides

Nearby

Campsites nearby

All campsites in California · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026

FAQs

Where is Kelso Depot?

Kelso Depot is in Kelso, CA, at GPS 35.0122, -115.6531. It is about 29 mi from Baker.

Can you camp near Kelso Depot?

Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Vulcan Mine Road, about 4 mi away; within 25 mi there are 15 campsites and motorhome stopovers.

Which road trips pass Kelso Depot?

Kelso Depot is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Mojave National Preserve: dunes, depot and cinder cones and Salt, dunes and Joshua trees: by camper from Las Vegas through Death Valley and the Mojave.

What is there to see near Kelso Depot?

Places worth a stop nearby: Kelso Dunes (9 mi), Hole-in-the-Wall (15 mi), Roy's Motel & Café (32 mi) and Amboy Crater (33 mi).

When is the best time to visit Kelso Depot?

The most pleasant months are usually March–April and October–November. Still fine, with some compromises, in May, September and December–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)