Barstow, California is a small city located in San Bernardino County in the Mojave Desert region of Southern California. The city is best known as a major transportation hub, as it is located at the intersection of Interstate 15 and Interstate 40, two of the most heavily traveled highways in the United States. It is also home to a number of military and other government installations, including the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Fort Irwin National Training Center, and the Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex.
Barstow is located just over 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles and is part of the Inland Empire metropolitan area. The city has been experiencing a population boom in recent years, with the population estimated to be approximately 23,000 as of 2020. Despite its small size, Barstow is a vibrant community with a number of attractions, including two casinos, numerous restaurants and shops, a vibrant art scene, and a number of outdoor activities.
History and Demographics of Barstow
The area that is now Barstow was first settled by Native Americans, and was later part of the Spanish and Mexican land grants. The city was founded in 1858 by William Phipps Blake and incorporated in 1915. The city was named after William Henry Barstow Strong, a general in the Union Army during the Civil War.
Barstow is a diverse city with a population that is 47.7% White, 5.3% African American, 3.2% Asian, and 42.7% Hispanic or Latino. The median household income is $40,841, and the median home value is $136,500. The city is located in a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters.
Attractions and Things to Do in Barstow
Barstow is home to a number of attractions and activities, including two casinos, an abundance of restaurants, and a vibrant art scene. There are also several outdoor activities to enjoy in the area, including hiking, camping, fishing, and off-roading.
The city is home to the Calico Ghost Town, a former mining town that has been turned into a living museum. The town is open every day of the year and offers a variety of activities, including panning for gold, exploring an old silver mine, taking a stagecoach ride, and more. Visitors can also explore the Mojave River Valley Museum, which offers a variety of exhibits about the area's history and culture.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Mojave National Preserve, which offers a variety of hiking trails, camping sites, and off-roading opportunities. There are also several lakes in the area, including Silverwood Lake and Lake Havasu, both of which offer excellent fishing and boating opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What county is Barstow CA in?
Barstow is located in San Bernardino County in the Mojave Desert region of Southern California.
What is the population of Barstow CA?
The population of Barstow is estimated to be approximately 23,000 as of 2020.
What is the median household income in Barstow CA?
The median household income in Barstow is $40,841.
What is the median home value in Barstow CA?
The median home value in Barstow is $136,500.
What is the climate like in Barstow CA?
Barstow is located in a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters.
What attractions are there in Barstow CA?
Barstow is home to a number of attractions and activities, including two casinos, an abundance of restaurants, the Calico Ghost Town, the Mojave River Valley Museum, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and off-roading.
Are there any lakes near Barstow CA?
Yes, there are several lakes in the area, including Silverwood Lake and Lake Havasu, both of which offer excellent fishing and boating opportunities.
What is the history of Barstow CA?
The area that is now Barstow was first settled by Native Americans, and was later part of the Spanish and Mexican land grants. The city was founded in 1858 by William Phipps Blake and incorporated in 1915.
What is the racial makeup of Barstow CA?
Barstow is a diverse city with a population that is 47.7% White, 5.3% African American, 3.2% Asian, and 42.7% Hispanic or Latino.
Are there any military bases in Barstow CA?
Yes, Barstow is home to a number of military and other government installations, including the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Fort Irwin National Training Center, and the Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex.
What is the nearest major city to Barstow CA?
Barstow is located just over 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles and is part of the Inland Empire metropolitan area.