Reserve use is restricted to research, education, and public outreach programs and is limited to individuals or small groups.  Use must be in line with our mission to advance understanding and stewardship of the natural environment.

Before visiting the Reserve, users must submit a visit request, obtain permission, and coordinate all activities and research projects with the Reserve Manager. 

The Burns Piñon Ridge Reserve is a 320 acre property that lies on the western edge of the Mojave Desert, where Joshua trees give way to pinons and junipers.  To the west, the peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains cast a rain-shadow over this boulder-strewn land.  Animal communities from the desert and the mountains, including mountain and Gambel's quail, desert and coastal horned lizards, and desert and dusky-footed woodrats cross paths in the area. The area is also home to the protected Mojave desert tortoise.