Captain John J Clark Memorial Monument

Overview

A quiet, sobering stop in a park known for red-rock drama, the Captain John J. Clark Memorial Cross sits a short walk off Valley of Fire Highway. It’s not flashy, but it hits hard: a lone white cross in open desert, honoring a traveler who didn’t make it through this landscape.

The Story

In June 1915, John J. Clark—listed in park info as retired from the 46th New York Infantry—was driving a buckboard along the old Arrowhead Trail. He tied his horse to the back, lay down, and died of thirst at this spot. The horse died here too. Locals from Overton erected the cross in June 1949, a stark reminder of how unforgiving this desert can be.

What You’ll See

• A simple white cross and marker set in open Mojave desert.
• Big-sky views with red rock in the distance—minimal development, lots of silence.
• It’s a reflective, uncrowded stop rather than a photo-op showpiece, though late-day light can be beautiful.

Getting There

The cross is roughly 150 feet south of Valley of Fire Highway, east of the Visitor Center. Reports note it on the right when traveling east. It’s easy to miss, so keep your eyes peeled or use approximate coordinates N 36° 25.523 W 114° 28.143. Expect a short, uneven desert walk; closed-toe shoes help.

Wildlife

This is classic Mojave habitat. You might spot lizards, jackrabbits, birds, or even bighorn in cooler hours, but sightings aren’t guaranteed—think of wildlife here as a bonus, not a promise.

Is It Worth Your Time?

If you’re here for geology alone, you might drive past. If you like history and quieter corners, this is a meaningful five-minute detour that puts the park’s harsh beauty into perspective.

Best Time to Visit

• Light: Late afternoon to sunset warms the scene with red and gold hues.
• Season: Cooler months or early/late in the day; summer midday can be brutal with no shade.
• Crowds: Minimal anytime—this is an under-the-radar stop.