2012 Map of Mud Hills

About this map

Rainbow Basin forms a geological focal point within the Mud Hills of San Bernardino County, where the desert landscape is defined by its dramatic erosion patterns and dry washes. This 2012 survey by the U.S. Geological Survey captures the specialized infrastructure of this arid region, from the remote Coolgardie Camp to the Owl Canyon Campground near the southeastern margin. The map follows a network of primitive and unpaved routes like Coolgardie Rd and Fossil Bed Rd, which connect the various natural features such as Fossil Canyon and Coon Canyon. The presence of these named basins and canyons suggests a landscape shaped by intermittent water flow and significant paleontological interest, characteristic of the Mojave's interior drainage basins.