Desert crossroads with railroad history on Route 66
Daggett is a small unincorporated community in San Bernardino County, California, situated in the Mojave Desert along the historic National Trails Highway, a predecessor to Route 66. With a population of only a few hundred, it retains a quiet, rugged character shaped by its days as a railroad stop, mining supply hub, and solar energy pioneer.
The town sits near Barstow and the Mojave River, making it a convenient base for exploring the broader high desert region. Visitors typically pass through while tracing Route 66 or heading toward nearby natural and historical attractions, but Daggett rewards those who slow down to absorb its authentic, unhurried desert atmosphere.
- •Stone Hotel — one of California's oldest surviving adobe structures, dating to the 1870s mining era
- •Daggett Desert Studies Center — a California State University field station open for educational visits
- •Mojave River — a unique desert waterway offering birdwatching and quiet nature walks
- •Calico Ghost Town — a well-preserved silver mining ghost town just a short drive away
- •Harper Dry Lake — a vast playa popular with aviation enthusiasts and photographers
- •Route 66 Heritage Drive — cruise the original alignment for classic Americana roadside scenery
Getting around: Daggett has no public transit of its own; a personal vehicle is essential. Barstow, about five miles west, offers Amtrak service and Greyhound bus connections. Rideshare availability is very limited in this rural area, so renting a car before arrival is strongly recommended.
Best time: Late October through April offers the most pleasant temperatures, avoiding the extreme summer heat that regularly exceeds 100°F.
Local food: Stop at roadside diners in nearby Barstow for classic Americana fare, and look for date shakes and Mojave-style BBQ at local spots along the Route 66 corridor.
This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.