Explore A Lush Desert Oasis Then Dine At A Small-Town Cafe On This Delightful Adventure In Nevada
By Natasha Kayes|Published May 08, 2023
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Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
The Silver State is home to some absolutely stunning natural wonders and attractions, from epic rock formations to majestic mountains to pristine wilderness. Nevada has bustling cities and suburbs as well as tiny remote desert towns. There is just so much to explore. I know from experience that sometimes, we need to feel a world away but don’t have the time, or perhaps the desire, to go too terribly far, in which case this day trip to a desert oasis in Moapa, Nevada, followed by a great small town meal, is simply perfect.
In the tiny town of Moapa, Nevada, you will find the Warm Springs Natural Area, a huge 1,250-acre desert oasis. It features bubbling springs, flowing streams, and vibrant wetlands.
This protected natural area is a delicate ecosystem encompassing more than 24 natural springs that flow forth to form the Muddy River. This 32-mile-long waterway flows to Lake Mead which provides most of Southern Nevada’s drinking water.
This “island in a sea of desert” is full of life, water, and greenery. This environmental island sits in stark contrast to the dry Mojave desert surrounding it.
Because of this, it has attracted and sustains a wide range of wildlife, including large and small mammals, reptiles and amphibians, butterflies, dragonflies, beetles, over 200 species of birds, and many species of fish, including the endangered Moapa dace.
There are over 260 plant species found in the Warm Springs Natural Area, in at least ten diverse ecosystems. There are woodlands, shrubs, marshes, meadows, and pastures.
A 2/3-mile trail - featuring benches, informational kiosks, and a scenic overlook - meanders along two main streams through the lush green space so you can fully enjoy the unique natural beauty of the area.
Enjoy hearty servings of classic comfort foods, including juicy steaks and burgers, ribs, hardshell tacos, stacked sandwiches, fish and chips, and loaded salads.
Have you explored this special desert oasis? Are you ready to plan a little day trip to Moapa? Learn more about the oasis on the Warm Springs Natural Area website. Want to spend more time exploring the natural beauty of Moapa Valley? Check out another exciting desert adventure idea.
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