An oasis is hidden in a desert valley; the China Ranch Date Farm is off the beaten path and worth a side trip on your next journey across the Mojave Desert.
As you wander down into this little palm-lined haven between Death Valley and the Dumont Dunes, you will discover a gorgeous little river valley with interesting geological formations and many hiking trails.
Nestled among a small group of homes is a working farm, a tiny date shop about half the size of Starbucks, and a clever little shed called the “Modest Museum” depicting the ranch’s history.
It includes exhibits and artifacts from early Indian sites and archeological digs, the pioneer families in the area in the early 1900s, and the mysterious Chinese man who is thought to have settled the Mojave Desert Canyon.
Inside the shop are local goods specially made for or by China Ranch. Of course, you have your typical date-related items; cookies, muffins, date balls, and the ever-important date shake.
The store has a small fridge with Ziploc bags filled with fresh dates labeled with the variety.
Not sure what to choose? Not a problem as visitors can sample their way through the dates, getting a sense of freshness and quality that China Ranch is bringing to the table.
Every date here is a winner, and there is a date for every taste. My hands-down favorite is the purple label “Hybrid” variety. These dates are jet black, almost looking like elongated black olives.
They are highly meaty with a creamy, rich, smooth texture, just like butter. October through April are the best months to visit the ranch if you want to take a few hiking trails, as summer temperatures can soar well above the century mark.
Hiking China Ranch Date Farm
The Crack Trail provides a modest hike, and the reward is a captivating view of a small waterfall on the Amargosa River as it flows south through the eastern edge of China Ranch.
A trail guide is available at the gift shop for .50 cents. Destinations include old mines, slot canyons, or mountain trails if you drive up the Kingston Range.
Nearby in Tecopa, visitors can immerse themselves in the desert mystique of the Amargosa Valley, the gateway to Death Valley National Park.
Finally, a Death Valley National Park tour will highlight your visit to Southeast Inyo County. China Ranch is located near the southern end of Death Valley National Park.
Getting to China Ranch Date Farm
The ranch is about 50 miles north of Interstate 15. Eighty-five miles west of Las Vegas, Nevada, off Highway 127. Open every day. www.chinaranch.com
China Ranch Date Farm address #8 China Ranch Road, Tecopa, Ca 92389. Most car nav systems will be able to direct you to the ranch. The last few miles of China Ranch road are not paved but can easily be made by all but the lowest cars. There are several old mines adjacent to the road in the lower canyon. They are fenced off for a good reason. Enjoy the dates, and stay out of the mines.
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