Recently I helped coordinate a small retreat for a group of artists in the Inland Empire. There was a bit of anxiety and a number of questions about adhering to social distancing measures to keep everyone safe, but the Birdline ended up being spacious for all of our guests to camp and convene safely.

I am returning guest of the Birdline. Each time I visit the Birdline, it feels a bit like a homecoming: the expansive scenic views of the Cleghorn and Sheephole, the quality of light at dusk, and the carefully curated aesthetic that incorporates wabi sabi, assemblage, minimalist elements with Micheal’s own art instillations of hand carved birds and architectural structures around the property, some of which include a hot water outdoor shower with breathtaking panoramic views of the desert and a open air hammock hut.

Communication prior to the retreat was timely and professional. Micheal was able help me procure a few last minute pieces of camping supplies to accommodate the different sleeping arrangements for our guests. Upon arriving, Micheal promptly met each of guests and greeted them and brief tour of the property. Our host went as far as helping set up tents the first evening and lit a fire each night for guests to convene around. Most importantly, he respected our privacy and space.

As a Black woman who camps and spends time in nature, no matter the quality of accommodations or beauty of the natural world, what it comes down to is the ability of a host to create an inclusive and safe space . Micheal has time again and again exhibited that his camp ground is one in which all guests feel welcomed.

My boyfriend and I are currently from the Joshua Tree to Seattle. During the booking process, our camp host Mel was responsive and accommodated a last minute change to our reservation. The camp was a luxury after weeks on the road: from a three burner cook top stove, hammock, fire pit, cold water shower, and outhouse. The highlight of our stay was the fully functioning ranch. I highly recommend booking the morning chore tour to get hands on experience of milking goats, bottle feeding kids, gathering eggs, picking seasonal vegetables from the large garden, and afterwards, receiving a bounty of farm fresh goods. Additionally, Mel’s adorable grandchildren were such informative and enthusiastic tour guides and provided entertaining anecdotes to life on the ranch. Needless to say, Nana’s Ranch has everything you could want and more.

I booked at The Bird Line as an opportunity to show a close friend of mine the desert before she made an out of state move. I chose The Bird Line because of its close access to Joshua Tree, the location's sublime scenery (it turns out, that The Bird Line is surrounded by BLM lands against the backdrop of the Cleghorn Lake and Sheephole Valley Wilderness), and the space's eclectic and minimalistic design. There are such fun things to look at in the shelter, including a mostly working vintage typewriter and a hanging installation of hand carved wooden birds. Micheal, The Bird Line host, was extremely accommodating and friendly. He had a wealth of knowledge about current events in the High Desert and nearby hiking trails. My friend and I ended up attending a two day show at The Palms Bar and Restaurant, that featured a phenomenal line up of musicians and bands harkening from across the West Coast. Overall, great accommodations and inviting environment. I will most definitely booking another stay.