The park was originally envisioned by Frank Antone Martin as a way to create an 'outdoor cathedral' in the desert.
Many of the sculptures were hand-poured in sections on-site, requiring years of labor in harsh desert conditions.
The statue of the Last Supper is one of the largest and most complex installations within the garden.
The park was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2020.
The sculptures reflect a mid-century folk art aesthetic rather than strictly traditional religious iconography.
Desert Christ Park is a 3.5-acre hillside sculpture garden in Yucca Valley, California, featuring over 40 large-scale concrete statues depicting the life of Jesus Christ. Established in 1951 by Reverend Eddie Garver and sculptor Frank Antone Martin, the park serves as a monument to peace and religious art. The sculptures were constructed using cast concrete, many of which remain from the original installation. The site is situated on a steep incline offering panoramic views of the Morongo Basin and the surrounding high desert landscape. It operates as a non-profit organization maintained by volunteers and donations. The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can navigate a network of dirt paths that wind between the figures. The location is an open-air site accessible for self-guided tours.
The elevated vantage point near the 'Sermon on the Mount' sculpture provides the best panoramic composition of the statues with the valley floor in the background.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the loose gravel and steep, uneven terrain.
Bring your own water as there are no potable water sources or vending machines available on the property.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the extreme heat common in the Mojave Desert.
Do not attempt to walk the paths in flip-flops or sandals due to the uneven, sandy, and steep nature of the terrain.
Maintain a respectful tone as the park is considered a site of spiritual significance; do not climb on the sculptures.
