Welcome . . .

The Desert Studies Center (DSC) is a field station of the California State University, located within the Mojave National Preserve, at the oasis of Soda Springs (aka: Zzyzx).   The DSC is centrally located within a region of diverse geological, biological, and cultural resources, and provides support facilities for those engaged in research or academic field studies in a rich variety of disciplines.

About the Desert Studies Center

The Desert Studies Center provides the opportunity for individuals and groups to conduct research, receive instruction, and experience the desert environment. Established in 1976 under a cooperative agreement with the Bureau of Land Management, the Center is operated for the CSU by the California Desert Studies Consortium, an organization of seven southern California CSU campuses: Dominguez Hills, Fullerton, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Northridge, Pomona and San Bernardino. With the passage of the California Desert Protection Act of 1994, the Desert Studies Center was placed into the Mojave National Preserve, and the National Park Service became our federal partner with the signing of a new cooperative agreement.

The DSC facilities provide housing for up to 75 individuals in dormitory rooms, and two Research Residences (self-contained with kitchen and bath) are available for up to 5 individuals each. Meal service is available, as well as classroom, laboratory and library facilities.