Kelso Mountains facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kelso Mountains |
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Kelso Mountains seen from Kelbaker Road south of Kelso
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 1,226 m (4,022 ft) |
| Geography | |
 Location in California
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| District | San Bernardino County |
| Range coordinates | 35°5′20.951″N 115°44′22.998″W / 35.08915306°N 115.73972167°W |
| Topo map | USGS Kelso |
The Kelso Mountains are a mountain range in the Mojave National Preserve in southeastern California. They are located just north of the small community of Kelso and the famous Kelso Dunes. The city of Baker is about 18 miles (29 km) northwest of the mountains.
The highest point in the range is Kelso Peak. It stands tall at 4,764 feet (1,452 meters). Like most of the Mojave Desert, these mountains don't get much rain. They usually receive less than 5–6 inches (125–150 mm) of precipitation each year.
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Where are the Kelso Mountains?
The Kelso Mountains are found in San Bernardino County. This is a large county in the southeastern part of California. The mountains are a key part of the Mojave National Preserve. This preserve is a special protected area. It helps keep the desert's natural beauty safe.
Nearby Places to Explore
The mountains are very close to the town of Kelso. This small town is known for its historic Kelso Depot. It was once a busy train station. Today, it serves as a visitor center for the preserve.
Another famous spot nearby is the Kelso Dunes. These are huge sand dunes. They are known for making a "singing" sound when the sand slides down. This happens because of the unique shape and dryness of the sand.
What is the Mojave Desert like?
The Kelso Mountains are part of the vast Mojave Desert. This desert is known for its hot summers and cool winters. It doesn't get much rain, as mentioned earlier. This dry climate means that only certain plants and animals can survive here.
Plants and Animals of the Mojave
Even though it's dry, the Mojave Desert is full of life. You can find unique plants like the Joshua tree. This iconic tree is a type of yucca. It grows only in the Mojave Desert.
Many animals also call the Mojave home. You might see desert tortoises, which are a protected species. There are also coyotes, jackrabbits, and many types of lizards. Birds like roadrunners and golden eagles also live here. These animals have special ways to cope with the desert heat and lack of water.
