Buzzards Roost in Joshua Tree and you can too. But you don’t have to sleep in a tree. How about a funky, fun and green-minded vintage trailer for something different.
Indoor and outdoor plumbing
After exploring Noah Purifoy’s Outdoor Art Museum I went looking for an old time friend who I hadn’t seen in a very long time. All I had was her address and my map app so once I found her place got lucky and a phone number was on her gate. Ever since I first met Susan she’s had a thing for old trailers, and anything else that’s old as well.
The surprise visit was a blessing for both of us with conversation picked up as from yesterday instead of many years. We discussed life and where we are within it. She has 20 years more than I to draw from so I listen and learn as we share.
Susan, known as Mumsie, along with her son who specializes in desert permaculture and solar applications, have refurbished a 1958 Rocket 35 foot (10.6 m) trailer for overnight accommodations.
Isn’t this adorable
Even the decorations are vintage yet modern conveniences make this a comfortable place to stay. The grey water system waters the plants so biodegradable soaps and shampoo are provided. It’s only one bedroom but has a sleeper sofa so can accommodate up to four people. And in the interest of free energy from the sun a Global Sun oven is provided for outdoor cooking. If you have questions get in touch with Buck (Susan’s son) ahead of time and he’ll try to stop by. “The promise of a good bottle or two of beer always helps motivate me to show up and talk permaculture till your ears bleed.”
Soon the Shasta will be ready and the next trailer project is the Star.
Plus Mumsie plans to build a labyrinth on the 5-acre property lined with recycled bottles. You’ll be able to enjoy dark night skies, star gazing and possibly wildlife like coyote, roadrunners, desert tortoise, quail and squirrels. Also keep your eyes open for rattle snakes especially during summer.
Book online through Airbnb for a unique desert experience in the Rocket. Or if you need more space they also offer a 3-bedroom house in a different Joshua Tree location called Buzzards Roost-West. Either way you can roost here but you don’t have to do it in a tree, or a boring hotel room, and be within minutes of town and the Joshua Tree National Park entrance.
I didn’t stay in the Rocket because I brought my own vintage camper and was not paid to write this article. I just love the idea and my friends.