A Short History of Adopt-A-Cabin, Rand Mining District, Randsburg & Ridgecrest
The Adopt-A-Cabin program was formed to save all remaining cabins on public land that have historical and recreational use, in the Ridgecrest area.. The cabins are usually located on public lands and not always easily access able. Some are only accessed by an overnight backpack trip. The Adopt-A-Cabin program began in 1989 by Brian Webb along with Ridgecrest BLM Staff Chief Steve Smith. Brian arranged for a group of volunteers to do the work while BLM provide the necessary materials. Today, there are 32 Adopt-A-Cabins and approximately 10 more cabins are being considered for adoption.
Dawson Cabin and Mingus-Mead Cabin located in the El Paso Mountains are a short distance north of Garlock Road. The Mingus-Mead Cabin has a total of 7 buildings at this location. Some of the structures at these locations are well maintained. Rest room is also available. To be assured of getting a cabin you must arrive early in the week.
The Rand Mining District consists of the communities of Randsburg, Johannesburg, Atolia and Red Mountain. Gold was discovered in 1895 at the site of the Yellow Aster Mine which resulted in these boomtowns. Sixteen million dollars in profit was made while in operation. During WWI tungsten and scheeite ores were mined. In 1919 silver was discovered on Red Mountain and more than 100 mines were operated in the area by 1920.
The town of Randsburg is considered a “living” ghost town and includes a general store, saloon, a museum, and several other quaint shops.
Ridgecrest is the home of China Lake Naval Air Weapons Center. The town offers residents a small town atmosphere with the conveniences of a larger city. Many recreational opportunities abound. Four wheeling, motor cycle riding and gold mining are just a few, along with many scenic wonders.
1. Bureau of Land Management, Adopt-A-Cabin Program, Ridgecrest Field Office. Map information
2. Friends of Jawbone, Off Highway Vehicle Riding Areas and Trails 4th addition June 2003 Map information
