The Living Desert in Palm Desert, California
Palm Springs, over the past decade has changed its image. No longer just the haven for the retired, blue-haired, geriatric but still golfing, set, the area has broadened its appeal to all ages and all types of families. The city is courting meeting planners, trying to convince them that it is the ideal spot for convention and conference attendees. So far, it seems to be working.
One of my favorite things to do on an unencumbered Palm morning is to get 
in an early walk at The Living Desert in Palm Desert. Founded in 1970, it is a zoo and botanical garden based entirely on the ecosystem of the desert.
The Living Desert currently occupies about 1,200 acres of land, is a pioneer in environmental education and native wildlife rehabilitation, is active in captive breeding and plant propagation programs, and sustains itself through an aggressive membership and volunteer program.
When you walk around the facility it is hard to imagine that just a few decades ago, this land was barren, litter-covered fallow land.
The 70’s saw the development of the Living Desert concentrate on clearing and construction of the facilities, and the beginning of development of several botanical exhibitions. In the 80’s wildlife was added to the mix, and a fulltime animal curator was added. The 90’s saw the development of additional animal exhibits as well as a train exhibit. And in the 2000’s, a children’s play park and picnic area have been added, in additional to the continuing development of the animal exhibits.
I think the best time to see The Living Desert is shortly after opening. Going early in the day allows you to escape the bulk of the heat, see the animals when they are fresh and a little more active, and, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see some of them having their breakfast. The last time I was there I got to watch the giraffes being hand fed, and got to nuzzle with the goats in the Petting Kraal. In case you didn’t guess — I love animals!
But my very favorite of all the animals at The Living Desert is the playful and mischievous meerkat, also known as the mongoose. They live communally, and I love watching their interaction with other meerkats as well as with their surroundings. I really love these little guys!
A couple of hours should allow you to see everything The Living Desert has to offer, and if you’re a real animal fan, allow yourself 3-4 hours. Bring your camera, wear comfortable walking shoes, and drink plenty of water. Remember, it’s a desert out there.
The Living Desert is located at: 47-900 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert, just a few minutes from Palm Springs and Indio.
Admission: $11.95 for adults, $7.95 in summer. Children (ages 3-12): $7.50, $4.50 in summer. There are reduced rates for seniors, ages 62-plus and for military personnel.
September 1st-June 15th hours are 9 am-5pm. Summer hours (June 16th-August 31st) are 8 am-1:30 pm.
Photo credits: The Living Desert
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POSTED IN: Things to See & Do
1 opinion for The Living Desert in Palm Desert, California
Les Poole
Jul 20, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Hi. While visiting your Living Desert. I noticed a plaque in memory of MICHAEL .POOLE. & DAN. LETTIER. My surname is also POOLE,and at this time I am researching my family history, of POOLE descendants. I would be grateful of any information that might be of interest, I realise that this could be of a private nature to these people mentioned. Therefore I live in hope. Thank you. Regards Les Poole. ( By the way, I thought your Living Desert was absolutely great.)
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