38 Facts About Zzyzx

The Enigmatic Location of Zzyzx

Zzyzx, a small unincorporated community in San Bernardino County, California, is a place shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Its unique name and fascinating history make it a captivating destination for those who love exploring the unusual.

1. Location: Zzyzx is situated approximately 107 miles southwest of Las Vegas, Nevada, and about 7 miles south of the small town of Baker, California.

2. Name Origin: The name "Zzyzx" was created by Curtis Howe Springer in 1944. It is often claimed to be the last word in the English language, although this is not entirely accurate.

Historical Background and Natural Oasis

Zzyzx has a rich history that spans thousands of years, from its origins as a natural oasis to its transformation into a health spa and resort.

3. Historical Background: The area was once part of a massive lake called Lake Mojave, which covered the land thousands of years ago. As the climate warmed, the water evaporated, leaving behind a mineral/salt crust in the dry Soda lake and Silver Lake basins.

4. Natural Oasis: Despite the harsh desert environment, Zzyzx has a natural spring system that has been used by various groups for generations. The Mohave and Chemehuevi people were among the first to utilize these springs, followed by early western explorers and the US Army.

Curtis Howe Springer and His Health Spa

Curtis Howe Springer, an entrepreneur and self-proclaimed doctor, played a significant role in the development of Zzyzx. His health spa attracted many visitors and left a lasting legacy.

5. Curtis Howe Springer: In 1944, Curtis Howe Springer moved to the area and established the Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Spa. Springer claimed a mining right to 12,000 acres surrounding the springs, which he used to bottle and sell water to travelers.

6. Health Spa Operations: During the 1940s and 1950s, Springer developed and operated the health spa, which included a two-story castle, dining hall, library, lecture room, pool house, goat farm, and rabbit rooms. He also broadcast a popular radio show over 300 stations worldwide, attracting hundreds of visitors to his spa.

7. Springer’s Products: Springer marketed various health products, including Antediluvian Herb Tea, Nerve Cell Food, and Hollywood Pep Cocktail. He shipped over 4 million packages across the country, necessitating the construction of a post office in nearby Baker.

8. Community Development: Springer imported animals from around the country to attract more families to visit his ranch. The nearby town of Baker had to build a post office specifically to accommodate the mail generated by Springer’s business activities.

Government Reclamation and Modern Use

After the government reclaimed the land, Zzyzx found new life as a center for desert studies and a part of the Mojave National Preserve.

9. Government Reclamation: In 1974, the government realized that Springer had no legitimate claim to the land and evicted him. The property was reclaimed by the federal government, marking the end of Springer’s operations at Zzyzx.

10. California State University Desert Studies Center: In 1976, California State University took over the facility and established the Desert Studies Center. The center operates under a cooperative management agreement with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the National Park Service (NPS).

11. Mojave National Preserve: The Mojave National Preserve was established in 1994 through the California Desert Protection Act. The preserve includes the former BLM land where Zzyzx is located, further formalizing the partnership between the NPS and CSU Desert Studies Center.

Zzyzx Road and Wildlife

Zzyzx Road leads to a unique destination that offers opportunities for birding and wildlife observation, making it a fascinating spot for nature enthusiasts.

12. Zzyzx Road: Zzyzx Road is a 4.5-mile-long rural collector road that runs from Interstate 15 generally south to the Zzyzx settlement. The road is part paved and part dirt, making it accessible for visitors.

13. Birding Location: Zzyzx is one of the best birding locations in the area due to its pools of water. Visitors can spot various bird species, including the golden eagle, marsh wren, barn owl, long-eared owl, and pied-billed grebe.

14. Wildlife Habitat: The natural spring system at Zzyzx serves as a watering hole for area wildlife. Bighorn sheep, coyotes, gray foxes, ringtails, badgers, and bobcats all use the area for drinking water. The Pacific tree frog breeds in the pool, along with aquatic insects.

Palm Trees and Visitor Facilities

The palm trees and visitor facilities at Zzyzx provide a welcoming environment for those who come to explore this unique location.

15. Palm Trees: The property features a variety of palm trees, including Mexican fan palms, California fan palms, and date palms. These trees were planted during the resort period and provide shade and habitat for local wildlife.

16. Visitor Facilities: The parking area at Zzyzx includes restrooms, shade structures, picnic tables, and an information kiosk. However, there are no services available except in nearby Baker.

17. School and Community Groups: The facility welcomes school groups and organized community groups whose activities are desert-oriented. These groups can make advance reservations through California State University, Fullerton.

Best Time to Visit and Elevation

Knowing the best time to visit and understanding the elevation of Zzyzx can enhance your experience when exploring this intriguing place.

18. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Zzyzx is from October to April, as temperatures can be quite hot during the summer months. The average daily temperature in May can reach as high as 93 degrees.

19. Elevation: Zzyzx is located at an elevation of 938 feet above sea level, which is significantly lower than Las Vegas. This lower elevation contributes to the hotter temperatures experienced in the area.

Cultural Significance and Popular Culture

Zzyzx has made its mark in various forms of media and popular culture, adding to its mystique and allure.

20. Historical Significance: Zzyzx has been featured in various forms of media, including Michael Connelly’s novel "The Narrows" and the TV show "Bosch: Legacy." The community was also highlighted by Huell Howser in "California's Golden Parks" Episode 160.

21. Popular Culture References: The name "Zzyzx" has been referenced in popular culture, including an American rock band’s song "Zzyzx Road" by Stone Sour. The Internet TV show Smartypants S1 E7 (2024) produced by Dropout (formerly CollegeHumor) also features a presentation about the history of Zzyzx.

22. Lexicography: The name "Zzyzx" has been noted for its uniqueness and difficulty in pronunciation. It was declared the "most difficult to pronounce" place name in California by Reader's Digest.

Official Recognition and Historical Maps

The official recognition and historical maps of Zzyzx add to its intriguing story and unique place in history.

23. US Board on Geographic Names: The United States Board on Geographic Names (USBGN) approved Zzyzx as a place name on June 14, 1984. It is the USBGN's lexicographically greatest place name, meaning it is alphabetically last in Latin alphabetical order.

24. Historical Maps: The name "Zzyzx Springs" appeared in Dmitri Borgmann's 1967 book "Beyond Language." Borgmann noted his source as an old, undated map of San Bernardino County published by the Automobile Club of Southern California.

Tragic Events and Curtis Springer’s Legacy

The history of Zzyzx includes some tragic events and the enduring legacy of Curtis Springer, a figure who left a significant impact on the area.

25. Place Name Recognition: Zzyzx has frequently been noted on lists of unusual place names. Its quirky history and unique name make it a fascinating topic for many.

26. Tragic Events: There have been two tragic events involving Curtis Springer’s sons at Zzyzx. In December 1952, Springer’s 16-year-old son Terry Foster Springer accidentally killed a man named Roberto De La Armendariz while trying to shoot a wild cat in a goat pen. In 1953, Springer’s older son Charles, 19, died after his rifle barrel discharged while he was trying to kill a wounded rabbit.

27. Curtis Springer’s Legacy: Despite his significant contributions to the area, Curtis Springer remains a somewhat mysterious figure. There has been no biography or movie about his legacy, which is surprising given his impact on the region.

Horror Movies and Desert Studies Center Operations

Zzyzx has been the setting for horror movies and continues to operate as a center for desert studies, preserving its historical integrity.

28. Horror Movies: Two schlocky horror movies were set on Zzyzx Road in 2006. One of these movies, "Zyzzyx Road," was forced to misspell the name to add more confusion to the already enigmatic place.

29. Desert Studies Center Operations: The Desert Studies Center operates under strict guidelines to preserve the historical integrity of the site. Visitors are invited to walk around Lake Tuendae and imagine being one of the guests during the resort’s prime years. However, visitors are warned not to disturb the private property across the lake.

Vandalism, Safety Concerns, and Remote Location

Visitors to Zzyzx should be aware of vandalism, safety concerns, and the remote location, which can present challenges.

30. Vandalism and Safety Concerns: The site has sometimes become a draw for those seeking life off the grid. However, this has led to vandalism and safety concerns. Visitors are advised to stay on designated paths and not take any items from the site.

31. Remote Location: The remoteness of Zzyzx has made it a destination for some during the pandemic. However, visitors often underestimate the dangers of the desert environment, leading to serious health issues.

Peaceful Landscape and Cinematic Appeal

Despite its mysterious atmosphere, Zzyzx offers a peaceful landscape and cinematic appeal that attracts photographers and filmmakers.

32. Peaceful Landscape: Despite its mysterious and sometimes spooky atmosphere, many visitors find Zzyzx incredibly peaceful. The stillness of the landscape at night can be quite serene, although some may find it eerie.

33. Cinematic Landscape: The desolate landscape at the end of Zzyzx Road is ripe for modern Western tales of bloodshed and scares. This cinematic landscape has been used in various films and TV shows, adding to its mystique.

Palm Trees, Structures, and Springer’s Philosophy

The palm trees, structures, and Curtis Springer’s philosophy contribute to the unique character of Zzyzx.

34. Palm Trees and Structures: The palm trees and dusty structures built by Doc Springer provide an attractive backdrop for photographs. Visitors often try to figure out the best spot for capturing the essence of this enigmatic place.

35. Springer’s Philosophy: Curtis Springer believed in a philosophy that if you play the game fair, the big boss upstairs will level things out. This philosophy reflects his religious beliefs and his approach to life.

Crucifix-Shaped Swimming Pool and Historical Preservation

The crucifix-shaped swimming pool and efforts to preserve the historical integrity of Zzyzx add to its allure.

36. Crucifix-Shaped Swimming Pool: The crucifix-shaped swimming pool remains mostly intact despite being over 50 years old. It has become an attractive nuisance, with many visitors trying to explore it despite warnings.

37. Historical Preservation: The Desert Studies Center is committed to preserving the historical integrity of Zzyzx. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site and its history by staying on designated paths and not disturbing private property.

Enduring Legacy of Zzyzx

Zzyzx continues to captivate visitors with its unique history, natural beauty, and mysterious allure.

38. Enduring Legacy: Zzyzx continues to captivate visitors with its unique history, natural beauty, and mysterious allure. From its origins as a natural oasis to its transformation into a thriving health spa and resort, Zzyzx remains an enduring legacy in the Mojave Desert.

Zzyzx: A Desert Gem

Zzyzx, with its quirky name and rich history, stands out as a unique spot in the Mojave Desert. From its ancient origins as part of Lake Mojave to Curtis Howe Springer's health spa era, this place has seen it all. Now home to the California State University Desert Studies Center, Zzyzx continues to attract visitors with its natural beauty and historical intrigue. The blend of wildlife, palm trees, and remnants of Springer's resort offers a peaceful yet mysterious atmosphere. Whether you're a bird watcher, history buff, or just curious about unusual places, Zzyzx has something to offer. Remember to respect the site's historical integrity and stay on designated paths. Visiting Zzyzx is like stepping into a different world, one where the past and present coexist in a fascinating desert landscape.