Zzyzx Road, located in the California Mojave Desert, has long been a subject of curiosity and intrigue. This lonely stretch of road, about two hours south of Las Vegas, leads to an oasis-like destination once home to the Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Resort. In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of Zzyzx Road and the enigmatic figure behind its creation.
The Journey to Zzyzx Road
The journey to Zzyzx Road begins by turning off the I-15 Interstate freeway and following a bumpy road toward a giant dried-up lake bed. A sense of isolation sets in as the road becomes increasingly twisted and challenging, with large holes dotting the landscape. However, in the distance, an oasis of palm trees and a small lake comes into view, piquing curiosity and raising questions about what lies ahead.
The Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Resort
Visitors would find the remains of the Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Resort at the end of Zzyzx Road. The resort was founded by Curtis House Springer in 1944. Springer, a traveling preacher and radio evangelist, came to California from the East Coast for fame and fortune. He discovered the oasis with his wife and daughter and filed a mining claim on 12,000 acres of land.
Springer’s vision for the resort was to share his spiritual insights and miracle cures with the world. However, it is interesting that he did not purchase the land. Instead, he filed a claim for mining rights, essentially squatting on the property. Springer would travel to Los Angeles several times weekly to record his radio sermons. On these trips, he would promise food and shelter to the unfortunate souls he encountered on Skid Row in exchange for construction work on Zzyzx Road.
Many people left immediately after realizing the required work and Springer’s strict no-alcohol policy. However, some stayed and helped build the resort, with a few living there for the rest of their lives. The resort consisted of a chapel, a crucifix-shaped pool with soaking tubs, an artificial lake with a fountain, a 60-room hotel, a broadcasting room, and even an airstrip for private planes that Springer called the “Zaiport.”
Springer acquired an old sea freighter and used its materials to construct the resort. One of the lifeboats from the freighter can still be seen next to the lake, preserved by the desert air. Springer named the place Zzyzx because he wanted it to be known as the last word in health and well-being.
The Popularity and Decline of Zzyzx
Zzyzx became a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful and healing retreat. At its height, the constant flow of visitors and the resulting postal correspondence made the nearby post office in the tiny town of Baker one of the busiest in Southern California. Springer loudly proclaimed the healing benefits of the natural mineral hot springs and the 27 miracle cures offered at Zzyzx. However, the springs on the property were not hot, so Springer had water heaters specially built to heat the pools in the bathhouse.
Guests at Zzyzx were treated to a diet of rabbit meat, the only locally available meat and vegetables brought in twice a week. They were also served a special tea Springer claimed would make them live longer. Springer would preach sermons to the guests over the PA system twice a day.
Despite the popularity of Zzyzx, Springer’s legal troubles eventually caught up with him. He faced numerous lawsuits for his false claims about the miracle cures and benefits offered at the resort. Additionally, he started selling parcels of land adjacent to the resort, which led to an investigation by the Bureau of Land Management. It was discovered that Springer did not have the legal right to sell the land he claimed to own.
In 1974, Springer and several hundred followers were evicted from the property. He died in Las Vegas in 1986 at the age of 90 after serving several short prison sentences for various felonies. However, Springer had the last word when Zzyzx was officially entered as the site’s geographical name in 1984.
Today, the area is occupied by the Desert Studies Center of California State University. While Zzyzx Road may be past its glamorous heyday, its peace and isolation still have a strange beauty. The unique history and otherworldly landscape make it a destination well worth the trip.
Watch the complete episode 16: The King of Zzyzzx on YouTube
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