The Art Installations of Bombay Beach
After a week on the coast, leaving for home in Texas with a couple stops along the way. Tonight, the Fountain of Youth RV Resort on the Salton Sea.
Discover the Vibrant Charm of Bombay Beach: An Artist’s Colony
Located on the east shore of the Salton Sea and only about a ten minute drive from where I stay at The Fountain of Youth RV Resort, Bombay Beach is a vibrant canvas of creativity through its unique art installations. The community embraces innovation and self-expression, featuring a variety of sculptures and murals that reflect the area's surreal landscape and history. Artists from near and far contribute to the eclectic mix, using found objects, bright colors, and thought-provoking themes. Each installation invites exploration, encouraging onlookers to engage with the art and the environment in a meaningful way.
As you wander through the streets, you'll encounter an eclectic mix of abandoned structures adorned with vibrant street art, each telling a story of creativity, decay and resilience. The light in Bombay Beach is particularly enchanting during golden hour, casting warm hues across the desert landscape and transforming the area into an artist's canvas.
The contrast between the rugged natural beauty of the surroundings and the imaginative expressions found in the town creates a dynamic atmosphere that invigorates the senses. Photographers and painters alike flock to this hidden gem, inspired by the interplay of color, texture, and light that defines this unique locale.
With every roadtrip through Southern California that takes me near here, I always plan to spend at least one night here to embrace the solitude and serenity that Bombay Beach offers. Whether I’m capturing the beauty of half-drowned trees, the reflective surface of the Salton Sea, or the whimsical art that adorns the community, each shot is a testament to the vibrant charm that makes this place so special.
From artists seeking inspiration to those simply looking to experience something off the beaten path, Bombay Beach invites you to immerse yourself in its creative spirit. Grab your camera or paint brushes and explore the wonder of this captivating paradise, where around every corner is a new opportunity for artistic expression.
Among the iconic installations, the "Bombay Beach Ruins" stand out, highlighting the juxtaposition of decay and beauty. The elements of nature have taken their toll on the structures, yet they provide a stunning backdrop for photographers looking to capture the essence of this unique place. Additionally, events like the Bombay Beach Biennale celebrate the artistic spirit of the area, bringing together creators and spectators in a communal appreciation of art and landscape. Every visit to Bombay Beach offers me new perspectives on creativity as it continues to evolve, making it an essential stop for art lovers and landscape photographers alike.
Exploring Bombay Beach
Tree of Life
What a crazy fun thing to come across quite by accident! The Tree of Life in Olympic National Park.
Tree of Life
Tree of Life: A Timeless Connection to Nature
The iconic Tree of Life, prominently situated in Olympic National Park, stands as a magnificent symbol of resilience and interconnectedness in the vast, colorful tapestry of the American West. Its majestic presence reminds us of the enduring spirit of nature, showcasing how life thrives even in the most challenging conditions.
I discovered this amazing tree by chance while visiting Olympic NP three summers ago. After I set up camp at Kalaloch Beach on the Washington state coast, I checked my map for nearby potential photo locations and realized I was only about 200 yards away from this famous tree! Many locals knew it well, as there were lots of people taking pictures and even a wedding engagement shoot happening that evening. This image was featured on my annual calendar later that year.
Even though most of the roots are openly exposed to the elements, I guess there are still enough of them clinging tenaciously to the soil below to absorb the necessary nutrients, ultimately providing the tree of life with… life.
Fountain of Youth
After an unhurried week soaking up coastal views, I'm headed back to Texas. Tonight, I’ll stay at the Fountain of Youth RV Resort by the Salton Sea, a charming spot in the Southern California desert for relaxation in the mineral baths and pools.
Rejuvenating mineral and salt water pools for RVers and Vanlifers
In my last post, I wrapped up an incredible camping experience along the stunning California coast and began the journey back to Texas. My next planned stop is the Fountain of Youth RV Resort, nestled by the Salton Sea, where I look forward to rejuvenating in the soothing hot mineral pools and baths. After soaking up the relaxing vibesat FOY, it's just a quick ten-minute drive over to Bombay Beach, where I can immerse myself in the vibrant and ever-changing art installations that reflect the creativity of the local community.
Leaving Carlsbad, I opted for Interstate 8, tracing the Mexican border in Southern California, eager to explore a section that was completely new to me. To my astonishment, I encountered swirling snowflakes and diligent snowplows clearing the roadway—a surprising contrast to the typical desert landscape expected in this region. As I drove through an area known as Rock City, the highway weaved past stunning boulders and dramatic terrain that bore a striking resemblance to the iconic Joshua Tree National Park. It was a reminder of the diverse beauty that lies waiting just off the beaten path.
Rock City area on Interstate 8
Passing through the boulders and snow, I decended in elevation into the desert and began looking for a post office to mail postcards to my family and sweetheart. The hamlet of Ocotillo, population 215, has one just off the highway according to google maps, so I stopped there to take care of that errand. In my travels I see so many post offices where I would expect them, in tiny rural towns and out of the way places. Some are very photogenic, unfortunately, the Ocotillo post office isn’t one of them.
The Ocotillo post office. Well worn but with paintings of local desert plants on the front wall.
From Ocotillo it’s only a short jaunt to the Salton Sea and my destination for the day, the Fountain of Youth RV Resort. My first visit there was in December, 2021 with several visits since then. This place is a keeper for RV’ers and #vanlifers.
What to do at the Fountain of Youth
At the Fountain of Youth RV Resort, there's no shortage of activities to keep you engaged and entertained. While soaking in the rejuvenating salt water pool, hot mineral pools and soaking tubs is certainly a favorite pastime, the resort offers a dynamic range of community events each day. Join in on a spirited game of pool volleyball or challenge friends to a friendly match of pickleball. For those who enjoy games of chance, there's plenty of opportunity with poker and other card games happening regularly. For me, I spend my time in the soaking tubs.
FOY has many amenities to make your stay comfortable. Guests can use the on-site laundry, the general store offers essential supplies, and there's even a limited hours post office for easy mail services. An RV dump station is available along with potable water for filling your tank. Bathrooms are kept clean and hot showers are included.
Sometimes the evenings come alive with music that sets the perfect mood for a night out. On Saturday nights, head over to the Sunset Grill, where you can savor delicious food and enjoy the company of fellow resort-goers as the sun sets in the background. Don’t miss out on street dancing and the lively karaoke sessions that follow, adding a splash of fun to the mix. With so much to do, every day at the Fountain of Youth RV Resort is a new opportunity to connect with others and create lasting memories.
In my next post, I’ll be writing specifically about the nearby artist community of Bombay Beach with lots of photos of the art installations I’ve captured over the years.
Van Life and landscape photography on the California coast in January
Returning to the California coast in my van, I’m filled with excitement to photograph it’s beauty and reconnect with my beloved camping beaches.
A full week of beach camping on the Central and Southern California Coast
After several months away, I finally made my way back to California from Texas, eager to reunite with the ocean. This road trip wasn't just about soaking in the sun and landscape photography; I also had appointments to attend and visits with friends and family lined up along the way. The anticipation of reconnecting with loved ones and the calming presence of the sea filled me with excitement as I hit the open road. Each stop along my journey reminded me of the deep connections I hold in this vibrant state, and I looked forward to embracing them all once again.
The Curlew and Sea Mist of Morro Strand State Beach
Reconnecting with the California Coast at Morro Bay
Taking JOY, my van, to Morro Bay feels like a homecoming as I head for my first stop on the California coast. This stretch of beach has become a familiar canvas over my five years of living the nomadic van life. From my campsite, I can stroll about two miles down the sandy shore to Morro Rock, though I typically don't go that far. Instead, I relish the journey, pausing to capture the quirks of nature—like a sand dollar adorned with a barnacle or the graceful movement of a Long-billed Curlew. Each step is an opportunity to explore reflections shimmering in the wet sand or to gauge the rhythm of the sea mist curling around Morro Rock.
Golden hour at sunset is my favorite time to take these walks, where the light bathes everything in a warm glow. On my first evening here, I opted for a minimalist approach, bringing just my 100-400 lens, ready to immerse myself in the thrill of photographing birds, this time, the Long Billed Curlew. This place, with its ever-changing shoreline and wildlife, never fails to fill my heart with joy and inspiration.
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Thornhill Broome Beach Camping-The Rocky One
After three nights camping at Morro Strand Beach, JOY and I travelled south about 3 hours to another beach I love returning to, Thornhill Broome. It’s another beach where you’re right on the edge of the sand with an unobstructed view of the Pacific Ocean and those tranquil sunsets every evening. There’s one thing to note about this campground however, the Pacific Coast Highway runs just over the chain link fence about 30 years from camp. The sound of the traffic doesn’t bother me at all, but some people will find it too objectionable. At night the traffic dies down tremendously.
Thornhill Broome is just north of Malibu and with the sad and catastrophic wildfires still burning in the LA area, I was unsure how that may affect access because all the homes along the PCH in Malibu had been early victims of the Palisades fire a week prior. It was extraordinarily windy the afternoon I arrived and happened to catch a strong gust in the video below.
Why was Thornhill Broome Campground Empty?
In years past, this popular campground was difficult to book, so when I first saw it empty when rounding the bend in the PCH from 2 miles away at Point Mugu, I wondered “what’s up with this?” No wonder I was able to get a campsite so easily when I booked it while in Morro Bay only two days prior. It was virtually empty. Only one other party camping here! Maybe it was due to the raging fires happening just south of me in the LA area. Or, my other visits were during Covid and many more people were out in RV’s vying for the few sites available. Could be both.
There’s also a third possibility; the rocks on the beach. There have always been lots of softball sized and larger rocks on this beach. They add to the uniqueness of this beach, not just for photography, but just listening to the sound of the rocks rolling around in the surf. You don’t hear that everywhere. Well, being my first visit here since the wild winter storms a year ago, I saw how much things have changed.
My campsite this time was #10. I used to camp in #1,#2 or #3 but they no longer exist! Campsites one through nine are wiped out, as nature reclaims part of herself. The storms also changed the beach in another way, as it seems that many many more of those rocks have been deposited making it difficult to access the surf unless you walk south a couple hundred yards where it’s possible to pick a path through them. All these rocks make this beach less appealing to families with children and people who want easier access to the water from their campsite.
My time here was short, two nights and one full day, which gave me two sunsets and two sunrises for photography. I didn’t do any sunrise photography out of laziness and because of the unappealing nature of the light at that location, that time of day. So, on my second morning, I just made the bed, coffee and got back on the road South through Los Angeles where active fires have traffic in a state of flux.
Carlsbad Beach Campground
Okay, so this was the only disappointment, if disappointment is even possible on the west coast. At Morro Bay I ran into another Vanlifer guy, Steve. In our short exchange he inspired me to try Carlsbad Beach State Campground. He had just stayed there a few days before. Also, I was heading to Carlsbad the next day anyway to visit a friend and some family.
Looking at the online registration, I could get the last “premium” site for $70 or, $55 for a site just across the narrow road that runs down the middle of the campground. Treating myself to a premium site, right on the beach sounded like the right thing to do since this was my final stop on the coast and I don’t know when I might be back again.
Assuming that for $68 (they give seniors a whopping $2 discount at all state campgrounds) that the site would have electricity to plug the van in. Nope. All the premium site got me was a commanding view of the beach 100 feet below me. So you’re not directly next to the beach camping here as it appears when looking at the campground on a map. The campground is on a bluff above the beach. Had I been only slightly more inquisitive, that feature would have been revealed. It wouldn’t have changed my decision to stay there though because I’m in Carlsbad mainly to see some of my peeps.
Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park
On my second day in Carlsbad, visiting Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park was a delightful experience. My son and his partner picked me up from my campground, and the three of us set off to explore the unique blend of history and nature that Leo Carrillo Ranch offers. With its picturesque adobe buildings and stunning landscapes, we wandered through the ranch, appreciating the lush gardens and rich history of the area.
After soaking in all that beauty, we met up with my friend Pam, adding to our group's joy. The day culminated in a fabulous Thai dinner, where we shared laughs and delicious dishes, making it a perfect end to our adventure of the day and my time on the west coast.
Tomorrow I head East to The Fountain of Youth
The Fountain of Youth RV Resort is such a fabulous place to stay in the middle of… not much. For me, the draw is; the hot mineral pools and private soaking tubs. Photographically, there’s an abundance of opportunity within a 10 minute drive at Bombay Beach on the Salton Sea, full of every changing art installations. I’ll tell you a lot more about that with many photos, next time.
Watch this space…
New year, new intentions
“The majestic landscapes of Death Valley are calling my name for my annual photography excursion there. This will be the “big photography event” on this road trip so I’m gearing up for more Death Valley adventures on my way…”
Welcoming 2025: Intentions and New Adventures
Like many, I found myself asleep long before the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve. We tucked in around 10 PM, only to be jolted awake by an impressive barrage of exploding fireworks as 2024 slipped into 2025. The loud celebration took me by surprise, since I’m used to a quieter way of ringing in the new year. Okay, I’m old and I guess this is the way it’s done in Texas.
Happy 2025!
As the firework echoes faded, my excitement for 2025 came into focus. Instead of the typical New Year’s resolutions, which, let’s be honest, often fizzle out, I prefer to set intentions. They feel warmer and more inviting, a guiding star for what’s to come.
This year, my sweet lady and I have united our aspirations: to cultivate more Art and Love within our home. She paints, bringing colors and emotion to life on canvas, while I capture the stunning landscapes of the American West through my lens. Our intention will be to create together—more paintings, more photographs, and, above all, more love and connection in the shared creative space.
Next Road Trip is a Big One!
As for my January plans, in a few days I’ll be heading to California, making time to visit family in Northern and Southern California, attend some medical appointments and finish off my tooth implant in Mexico. But between all that, I’ll be on the lookout for captivating photography opportunities along the way. The majestic landscapes of Death Valley are calling my name for my annual photography excursion! This will be the “big photography event” on this road trip so I’m gearing up for more Death Valley adventures on my way back to Texas.
My First Adventure to Death Valley’s Racetrack
When I made the photograph below, in 2015, it was my first time to the Racetrack Playa. My Jeep was almost new to me then and negotiating this 27-mile long and lonely desert road, paved only with sharp lava rock, felt like a good test of her. Upon arrival, my next task was locating those famous moving rocks. Turns out that I had to hike something like a mile or more from the parking area before running across this fine example of the mystifying legend of these moving rocks.
Photography conditions that afternoon were so good that I spent the night there, staying up late to make other photographs of these amazing moving rocks under the light of the full moon! Some of these moonscape photographs are in my Death Valley Gallery. Conditions that night were perfect, even offering me a rare moonbow to incorporate into some of my captures.
So, I’ll be going back to Death Valley later this month, sadly, not in the Jeep. Instead I’ll be in the comfort of Joy and staying mostly on the paved and less treacherous roads during the day, scouting out new photographs to share with you, staying comfortably warm in Joy’s coziness during the cold desert winter nights.
Zooming Rock-Racetrack Playa, Death Valley National Park, California
The Loosely Planned California Leg
While I’m in the Bay Area, I hope to sneak away to the coast for some camping and seascape photography. The Texas landscape is beautiful in its own way, but there’s something I deeply miss about the rugged coastline. I can’t wait to capture the waves crashing against the shore, with the sunset painting a colorful backdrop.
Sunlit Symphony of Sea and Stone.
February Family Ice-Fishing Plans are Firming Up
Mark your calendars—I'll be sharing photos and stories from my adventures beginning around January 10th and continuing until I return home at the end of the month.
And let’s not forget about February, where another ice fishing adventure in the Colorado Rockies awaits. More details on that to come!
Here I am from a couple winters ago, the ice fishing newbie.
Cheers to you and and Living an Intentional 2025!
Here’s to a powerful and magical 2025, filled with love, creativity, and breathtaking moments! Keep an eye on this space to watch my 2025 journey unfold.