The Barker Dam Trail, which starts on a flat surface, is an easy, family-friendly hike in Joshua Tree National Park. Barker Dam offers visitors a window into both the natural beauty and human history of the region. Originally built by early cattle ranchers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including the well-known William “Bill” Keys, the dam was designed to collect and store precious water for livestock in the desert. Today, this man-made reservoir has become an oasis, attracting not only visitors but also desert wildlife.
This peaceful oasis, with its historical significance and striking beauty, is one of the most memorable parts of the Joshua Tree Tour, offering something for everyone.
