The Zzyzx Desert Studies Center is a research facility located within the Mojave National Preserve in California. It was established in the 1940s by an eccentric radio evangelist who named it after himself and claimed the area was healthful due to its mineral springs. Now owned and operated by the California State University system, the center hosts researchers and students studying the desert ecosystem and offers educational programs for visitors.

The Zzyzx Desert Studies Center is a unique destination for nature lovers and those interested in desert ecology. Visitors can tour the facilities, which include a small museum, gardens, and buildings constructed from repurposed materials. The area is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including the threatened desert tortoise, bighorn sheep, and a variety of birds. Hiking and birdwatching are popular activities, and several trails lead to nearby sand dunes and other natural features. The center also offers workshops and classes on topics such as geology, astronomy, and sustainable living. Get driving directions.