Small community museum featuring exhibits on local history, mining, natural science, and Native American artifacts.
General Information
Closed Sunday to Wednesday
How to Get There
From US-395 in Lone Pine, turn west onto Bush Street and continue one block; the museum is on the right.
Overview
The Southern Inyo Museum offers a window into the diverse cultural and natural history of California’s Owens Valley. Located in a modest building just off the main road in Lone Pine, the museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts ranging from Native American tools and crafts to mining equipment and early settler memorabilia. Visitors can also explore exhibits on the 1872 Lone Pine earthquake and the region’s unique biodiversity, including a notable insect collection curated by local biologist Lee Gonzales.
Operated by the New Coso Heritage Society, the museum is a grassroots effort to preserve the stories and heritage of Inyo County. Its intimate setting and knowledgeable volunteers make it a rewarding stop for those interested in the intersection of natural science, pioneer life, and indigenous culture. Whether you're passing through or exploring the Eastern Sierra in depth, the Southern Inyo Museum provides a thoughtful and educational experience rooted in local pride.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Southern Inyo Museum, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
