The Rio Tinto Borax Mine Visitor Center in Boron, California, shares the story of borax mining and the local community through historical and geological displays. The center is free to visit, with an operations overlook and other features that give you a closer look at the area’s mining history.
- Location: 14486 Borax Road, Boron, CA 93516.
- Regular hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting; last entry is at 4:45 p.m.
- Admission: Free; donations are accepted.
Where is the visitor center?
The Borax Visitor Center, operated by U.S. Borax, a Rio Tinto business, is at 14486 Borax Road in Boron. Built in 1997, it tells the story of borax and the local community.
U.S. Borax’s Boron mine began as an underground mine in 1927 and became an open-pit mine in 1957. The mine itself is closed to the general public, so the visitor center is the place to learn about its history and see the operation from the public overlook.
For more context on the town around the center, the Boron, California town guide covers local points of interest.
What should you check before visiting?
The center’s regular schedule is Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting, and it is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Last entry is at 4:45 p.m. Major holidays are excluded from the regular schedule, so check the official site before you go.
Admission is free all year, and donations support local community organizations through the Borax Visitor Center Foundation. Parking is free and can accommodate recreational vehicles. For questions, contact the center at +1 760 762 7588 or visitor.center@riotinto.com.
The operator’s visitor information does not state an identification requirement or require advance arrangements for ordinary visits.
How do you get to the visitor center from Boron?
From the Boron Motel, the visitor center is about a 20-minute drive. If you are coming from State Route 58, a visitor listing describes taking exit 196, the Borax exit, then heading north about 3 miles on Borax Road and following facility signs.
How much time should you plan for the visit?
The exhibits include historical and geological displays and a video theater; outside, the center has an operations overlook, a 20 Mule Team replica and photo opportunities.
The operations overlook is ADA-compliant, with an ADA-compliant ramp. A gift shop sells borax souvenirs. You can combine the displays, video theater and outdoor features in whichever order suits your visit.
FAQs
Is the Borax mine open to the public?
No. The mine is closed to the general public, but you can visit the Borax Visitor Center and view operations from its overlook.
Is there an admission fee?
No, admission is free. Donations are accepted to support local community organizations.
Can recreational vehicles park at the center?
Yes. Parking is free and accessible to recreational vehicles.
What can you see at the center?
Indoor features include historical and geological displays and a video theater. The center also has an operations overlook, a 20 Mule Team replica and a gift shop.