Worth Bagley stone

Overview

A stark slice of desert lore, the Worth Bagley Stone marks the spot where Bill Keys shot Worth Bagley during a 1943 land dispute. Keys later chiseled the inscription himself. The original granite marker was vandalized in 2014 and moved to the park museum; today a to-scale metal replica stands at the site to preserve the story while protecting the artifact.

What You'll See

• A modest, headstone-like marker with Keys’ terse inscription, sitting in open desert scrub and sandy wash.
• Nearby historic sights on the same walk include the Wall Street Mill ruins, Desert Queen Well windmill, and even an old car body—so the stone fits into a compact loop of frontier history.

Getting There

The stone sits just off the Wall Street Mill Trail, roughly 0.3 miles from the trailhead off Queen Valley Road. Trails and washes braid here, so follow the main path and signed spurs. If you’re hiking the loop, take the right fork to reach the marker before the mill.

Why It’s Unique

It’s rare to see a monument erected by the man involved in the killing it commemorates. That blunt, hand-hewn message—and the exact spot it marks—make this one of the park’s most memorable cultural artifacts.

Know Before You Go

There are no amenities at the marker or along this stretch—no water, restrooms, or tables. Expect soft sand in places and full sun. The replica is intentionally realistic; look, photograph, and leave everything as you found it.

Wildlife

This is classic Joshua tree and wash habitat. Keep an eye out for lizards and desert birds like quail along the trail.

Best Time to Visit

Aim for early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and softer light on the inscription. Weekdays are quieter; weekends and holidays see more foot traffic on the Wall Street Mill route. Midday heat makes the sandy stretches feel longer and harsher.