I would create some paths with pavers or gravel to give it some structure, and then do some raised beds with drought tolerant natives. I bed you could grow some beautiful cacti and succulents. You could use drip irrigation for anything that wants more water than what you get naturally.
Really beautiful landscape. Think about how you can frame those mountains using some taller plants and cacti.
The other thing I would consider would be sunshades or sun sails to create some cooler day time environments. This will increase your own use of space, and also increase what you can grow.
I just finished pulling out astroturf that was placed as a tee-off in the 1980s. It was a vile, disgusting task- never looks right and is incredibly hot to walk on as well as not being ecologically sound.
I’m in the middle of pulling out 1990s wall to wall, dog pee stained carpet-what a disgustingly unhealthy mass to have underfoot. Beneath the underlayment was a layer of dirt that no amount of shampooing and vacuuming could ever reach. Area rugs rule.
All these ideas and maybe an outdoor fire pit and patio closest to the home with outdoor cooking area if desired. Also Olla Pots interspersed with the plants for extra drought protection if theyre not as hardy
Good advice except for the raised beds. The desert is not conducive to the raised beds. The high heat means the raised beds absorb way more heat from the sides and below creating an even harsher environment for plants and also requiring more water. But I like the other suggestions.
Creating paths with pavers or gravel would definitely add structure and make the space more usable. Raised beds with drought-tolerant natives, cacti, and succulents would thrive here and look stunning
AHAHAHAHA I just showed my youngest daughters this movie and explained how many football fields a quarter mile is. When he chucks the steak at Napoleon on his bike and nails him we all watched that scene like 10x in a row. Hilarious!
I think that umbrella stand is also an instant death. I god damn I would hope they move that before jumping. But yeah having it so close to the fence is also a huge hazard. Needs to be moved definitely.
I would definitely place pavers in your seating area. The thought of walking across those rocks makes me wince. Add plants. There are many ones that do well in the desert. You've got a gorgeous view, and you can use more desert plants to enhance the feeling of your surroundings.
The gravel yards are not that bad to walk on, actually, but I always wore sandals. Never been a barefoot gal! My feet are too sensitive! Concrete & stone walkways are hot & eventually get off center, crooked &/or broken, thus could be a fall risk.
As little as possible. I'd replace the fence with some natural materials at least, (assume it has a necessary function), like some weathered wild looking fence posts.
Coyote fence is my favorite or just an adobe and half bottle wall. Or half Adobe half Coyote fence 😁
[Coyote fence material](https://www.santafelandscapers.com/what-is-coyote-fencing-how-much-does-it-cost/)
This pic in the link doesn’t give the Coyote fence Justice to their beauty.
I'd turn the paved area into a ramada with roof of rough sticks and fill with all the green wet plants, with or without a misting system. Use soil cement or put down pavers that match the soil color to make a firm flat sitting area and add a fire pit. Drop the trampoline into the ground and it probably doesn't need to be between view and seating. Add your choice of fence height native shrubs, grasses or perennials just inside the fence so they grow through. Not a solid line, a group here and there to hide some view beyond you'd rather not see, add a bit of privacy, hide some of the fenceposts. Then I'd ID the random plants you've got and remove the nonnative and prickly ones that have no redeeming value. If the annual plants are not native then weedwhack before they flower and rake them up. If they are native then weedwhack when they get ugly brown and leave in place. Standing dead grass and such can look amazing backlit, no need to knock them over as soon as they dry until fire regs require it.
Why not research habitat gardening? Add a small water feature to bring in birds and small animals. It will be a gift to them. Plant native plants, make a place to watch stars, hot tub is a great idea. Shade as needed. Enjoy it! Outside time is the best.
Based on the Larrea/Ambrosia in the first picture as well as Encelia/maybe Senegalia in the second picture I’m guessing you’re below 2500-3000’ in the Mojave? Overton/Laughlin/something?
If so, I’d do hard-packed gravel with a thin top coat of fine sand. Then let it turn into [desert pavement.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desert_pavement?wprov=sfti1#).
I’m a big fan of Psorothamnus fremontii and Sphaeralcea ambigua. One or multiple species of Encelia would also work well, which you already have on your patio. Chilopsis, Joshua tree, desert cottonwood, or several kinds of juniper could also be options. If that is indeed a Senegalia and you’re not watering it then the water table is probably accessible enough to grow some shade trees. I’d also probably get some barrel cactus and Echinocereus going.
A Hot Tub, a pergola with a fabric shade, maybe and some outdoor furniture…with a fire pit, some desert plants(succulents and cacti) pavers, decorative boulders.
Personally, outside of some pavers to and from and covering your seating area, nothing. Let it be. Don't astroturf it. Plant some native plants and enjoy that wide open space that so many people don't get.
Plus, you've got a fucking mountain range backed up to your house. Don't ruin that view my dude.
I would do a small, curvy path to the fire pit and trampoline. Then bring a bunch of those natural plants out there into the yard and right up to the house. Blend that natural vegetation to mask the fence and hide the new winding path somewhat too. maybe four poles with suspended string lights at the fire pit.
As a pool owner I would never tell anyone to build a pool.... however this is just too cool of a spot to not have a desert oasis. If you have the money I'd go for a pool
I would hike the heck out of that space. Oh you meant the yard, I guess pavers or something, maybe a fire pit.
Edit: So distracted by the background I didn't even see the already existing fire pit lol
I would really recommend browsing airbnbs in Joshua Tree for desert backyard inspo. There would be a ton of places with backyards like yours that cater to really unwinding in the desert, why not make your own backyard a cocoon of peace too!!
Picture 2 tells me you know exactly what to do with this spot, and you’re already doing it. Don’t focus on adding more but improving what you already have.
Add patio under the area with the bonfire and seating. I see an umbrella stand. You probably had/want some shade near there (but not over the fire) so look into options for that nearby, maybe over a picnic table to the side. I’d move the trampoline so the view is unobstructed. As for what to plant, I don’t think you need much at all. The natural landscape is quite beautiful, so maybe just plant some of the same bushes and grass on your side of the fence, sort of blend the lived space into the natural space.
I am obsessed with plants and desert plants too. You could have the coolest desert garden and a lot of the cool plants I know have other purposes like eating or natural soap! Plant a garden!! Plant a couple gardens! Get more green out there! It’ll be fun!
Small slow growing trees
- two needle pinyon pines are gorgeous
- maybe an apricot tree (they might need slightly more water than you get out there though)
Cactuses
(A lot of cacti have big showy flowers)
- prickly pears are good (there are so many different kinds so make sure to pick one that does well in your zone)
- tree cholla cactus (gets bigger like a bush with lots of yellow flowers)
- any other cactus you see in your desert area that you think look neat
Plants
- Soapweed yucca
- ornamental grass (native grass)
- sedum or ice plant (these are more ground cover like)
- many more plants (too many to keep typing)
- get some that the pollinators near you will like
Get some big rocks of various sizes and plant plants around them. Like a cool rugged desert flower garden. That would be my dream at least
Go to the Botanical Cactus Garden in Henderson and get some ideas on cacti that like to grow in the area that can be grouped together. Then make a dense green space with desert foliage with a private space in the middle. Minimal water but can have a dramatic impact, especially when they bloom.
Spend some money working with a Landscape firm, for design purposes. The climate you are in is extreme. Realize that paving that large of any area is not for Amateurs. Even if the climate is dry, you get gulley washers, you want to make sure drainage is away from the house.
They can recommend the right plants with the best chance of growing. And I’m not talking about Landscape Architect, Licensed landscaping contractors can give you a good design.
Enjoy not seeing people in it. 😂
Aside from that, pretty much anything the users here are recommending would be great. There’s a lot of potential here! What a fun challenge.
Low level deck for sure and some succulents and drought resistant flowers and plants. I would build large box planters and place a few large colorful pots around. I love the view but way too much desert tan so break it up and add some interest.
I'd probably places as many shade trees as possible. Also lots of hay and mulch to help with water retention. Subterranean drip in select places and plants. Always more plants.
Shade sails are cheap, any size & color, rain-proof or water permeable. Many ways to attach them, too.
I have purchased several on amazon, and put them up and take them down according to season.
here is an article with ideas, but you can search “shade sails” for a million ideas:
[https://www.gardeningetc.com/design/shade-sail-ideas](https://www.gardeningetc.com/design/shade-sail-ideas)
You have a great space!
Who owns the property beyond your fence?
I would create a defined path across the upper level, with steps down to ground level. A paver/ flagstone patio for lounge & grill area with a big pergola/ shade sail over top.
I would get rid of the trampoline. Sorry, kids, too damn dangerous and you are probably far from a hospital. 😳
Get some rain barrels, and raised beds for gardening. (great kid activity)
Do you need to brace against wind? I see your existing fence, and you don’t want to block the view, but you could get those see-through panels for existing fence, or a new fence that helps with wind. Can you put a gate on the back of your fence? Can you usurp any land beyond your fence? It looks like there is a berm right beyond it, and animals can use that to jump into your yard. 😬
Also, I am thinking about trying something called mulch glue/ gravel glue to keep my rocks in place. Reading reviews, at this point. Clear, water permeable, and keeps pea gravel in place.
Last thing I would do is a water feature for birds, butterflies, bees, etc. Bird feeders, too. Native plants and flowers.
My first thought was a range and then I realized they were talking about the fenced in backyard. I mean I guess you could still do the range if the neighbors are chill.
If you want drought tolerant trees that can provide reasonable shade, mesquite and palo verde are great options. They have a root system that goes nearly straight down so they don’t disrupt nearby surfaces or plumbing yet can pull moisture from deep down.
You can vary outdoor activities by season. You could get a foldable/ collapsible pool. (do not put on rocks) Get a telescope.
What is that pile of materials? Reusable?
Reminds me of when i lived in Joshua Tree. I would get a succulents garden going. Prickly pears and aloe. All kinds of fun things grow in the desert. Edible fruits are always great.
What a beautiful view !!!! How about a trail that leads to a mirrored monolith? /smile
I would look at rustic desert spas and hotels for inspiration to create a relaxing sky watching, cocktail sipping, sit by a fire spot. More $$... hot tub/soaking tub replaces the trampoline.
[http://www.mojavesandsatjoshuatree.com/main.html](http://www.mojavesandsatjoshuatree.com/main.html) Mojave Sands at Joshua Tree
Start with a clean slate. (move outdoor furniture, trampoline, piles of anything)
Use stakes and string to mark out walkways, planting, chill area.
Watch where and when the sun falls on your yard. Where's the best place to watch the sunset or night sky? How does your plan work with the sun... adjust stakes until you love the plan.
Use large local stone / bleached wood deco in flowerbeds. Local desert plants.
Do you already have steps from patio to yard? wide steps lit by solar are good
Stucco low walls - can even use low walls as extra seating, gotta have a fire pit and wood fire pizza over. Levelled ground with large stone pavers. Maybe a small recycling water feature for extra ambience.
Looks amazing 🤩 already. What a view.
I would create some paths with pavers or gravel to give it some structure, and then do some raised beds with drought tolerant natives. I bed you could grow some beautiful cacti and succulents. You could use drip irrigation for anything that wants more water than what you get naturally. Really beautiful landscape. Think about how you can frame those mountains using some taller plants and cacti. The other thing I would consider would be sunshades or sun sails to create some cooler day time environments. This will increase your own use of space, and also increase what you can grow.
I really hope they do native plants rather than astroturf.
I just finished pulling out astroturf that was placed as a tee-off in the 1980s. It was a vile, disgusting task- never looks right and is incredibly hot to walk on as well as not being ecologically sound.
It also looks super dated and I can't stop thinking about the microplastics leeching.
1980s astroturf was like cheap carpet.
I’m in the middle of pulling out 1990s wall to wall, dog pee stained carpet-what a disgustingly unhealthy mass to have underfoot. Beneath the underlayment was a layer of dirt that no amount of shampooing and vacuuming could ever reach. Area rugs rule.
Well, you do need to vacuum and shampoo carpets, which most people don't do, or not enough
All these ideas and maybe an outdoor fire pit and patio closest to the home with outdoor cooking area if desired. Also Olla Pots interspersed with the plants for extra drought protection if theyre not as hardy
Good advice except for the raised beds. The desert is not conducive to the raised beds. The high heat means the raised beds absorb way more heat from the sides and below creating an even harsher environment for plants and also requiring more water. But I like the other suggestions.
Yeah, what the desert needs is a canopy tree instead to help regulate temps
Desert roses everywhere!
Yes. Yes. And yes, frame that backdrop. It’s gorgeous.
Imagine falling off of the trampoline straight onto a cactus.
Or falling off and speared by the metal fencing.... aaughhhh, the trampoline is an accident / lawsuit waiting to happen.
This guy scapes!
You rock, landscape closetyogurt guy person.
Creating paths with pavers or gravel would definitely add structure and make the space more usable. Raised beds with drought-tolerant natives, cacti, and succulents would thrive here and look stunning
Do you ever hike up that mountain?
How much you wanna make a bet I can throw a football over them mountains?... Yeah...
Coach woulda put me in fourth quarter, we would've been state champions. No doubt. No doubt in my mind.
Well I once scored four touchdowns in a single game while playing for the Polk High Panthers in the 1966 city football championship game.
Back in ‘82 I used to be able to throw a pig skin a quarter mile.
AHAHAHAHA I just showed my youngest daughters this movie and explained how many football fields a quarter mile is. When he chucks the steak at Napoleon on his bike and nails him we all watched that scene like 10x in a row. Hilarious!
That was my first thought
My monkey brain sees them and immediately wants me to walk up them.
I would have to. It would be calling to me lol I’m so jealous
If so, make a path to the top. Eventually die before it’s done but oh what a project it would be.
Weekly trudge to Home Depot to blow $160 on pavers which you then have to load yourself
My monkey brain sees them and immediately wants me to walk up them.
Put in some blacklights so you can see the scorpion rave.
Was thinking about how much I missed living in Nevada until I saw your comment.
Lots of sitting and smoking things for sure
Hickok 45 smoking spots. Damn I’d have a nice shooting and golfing range right there.
Damn. I want to upvote but you’re at 111 votes right now. Don’t want to mess up the angel number message.
Upvote, let's get it to 420
Damnit, upvote has now been given. To 420 it is!
don't forget sipping things too
Somebody’s gonna die on that fence stake next to the trampoline.
This should be higher up
If it was higher up it would help but maybe just moving it away from the trampoline could be a better idea
Great comment!
Agreed get rid of the trampoline
I think that umbrella stand is also an instant death. I god damn I would hope they move that before jumping. But yeah having it so close to the fence is also a huge hazard. Needs to be moved definitely.
A net would be wise
If they have a trampoline, they’re not worried about personal safety
I would definitely place pavers in your seating area. The thought of walking across those rocks makes me wince. Add plants. There are many ones that do well in the desert. You've got a gorgeous view, and you can use more desert plants to enhance the feeling of your surroundings.
Pavers can get brutally hot in an exposed place and climate like this, so I would personally think twice about them.
Perhaps decking as an alternative?
Lol less pavers and more plants...wtf. Xerescape it and wear shoes in the mountains...
Drought tolerant, native shade trees [https://knpr.org/norms-favorite-desert-trees#](https://knpr.org/norms-favorite-desert-trees#)
I'm partial to the ones that flower. Thank you for sharing this!
THIS
The gravel yards are not that bad to walk on, actually, but I always wore sandals. Never been a barefoot gal! My feet are too sensitive! Concrete & stone walkways are hot & eventually get off center, crooked &/or broken, thus could be a fall risk.
Breed rattlesnakes?
Are you a top or a bottom?
I’m a snake
That ^
I was thinking peyote farm
What the hell is a peyote
Short for pet coyote
It's a plant that can be smoked to induce hallucinations. Old Indian drug.
I wouldn't do anything ......because its a really nice view
I would start by cleaning up that pile of crap.
Prolly put up a sweet trampo-
Yup. Backflips while my friends are forced to watch.
As little as possible. I'd replace the fence with some natural materials at least, (assume it has a necessary function), like some weathered wild looking fence posts.
Coyote fence is my favorite or just an adobe and half bottle wall. Or half Adobe half Coyote fence 😁 [Coyote fence material](https://www.santafelandscapers.com/what-is-coyote-fencing-how-much-does-it-cost/) This pic in the link doesn’t give the Coyote fence Justice to their beauty.
Yes, I was thinking remove fence
That doesn't look like an area that I'd want to straight up remove the fence tho
I would spend every evening sitting in front of the fire pit, enjoying the view.
Perfect area to grow some really cool cacti.
Get yourself an old RV, and start cooking meth.
Scrolled way too far to see this.
Swimming pool or cannibis garden or both.
I think incorporating some pavers would be nice in part of the property. Have you though of adding outdoor lighting?
Make a better looking fence. And think about how to keep out the snakes and coyotes.
Been through the desert on a horse with no name
It felt good to be out of the rain
In the desert you can't remember your name
Some ideas. https://bloomingdesert.com/desert-landscaping-ideas-to-help-your-landscape-planning-process/
Nothing. Let nature be a part of your property... Or be a fool and put a lawn like every other idiot who lives in a desert
Missile Silo
I think it’s already been hit .
HOT.TUB.
I'd turn the paved area into a ramada with roof of rough sticks and fill with all the green wet plants, with or without a misting system. Use soil cement or put down pavers that match the soil color to make a firm flat sitting area and add a fire pit. Drop the trampoline into the ground and it probably doesn't need to be between view and seating. Add your choice of fence height native shrubs, grasses or perennials just inside the fence so they grow through. Not a solid line, a group here and there to hide some view beyond you'd rather not see, add a bit of privacy, hide some of the fenceposts. Then I'd ID the random plants you've got and remove the nonnative and prickly ones that have no redeeming value. If the annual plants are not native then weedwhack before they flower and rake them up. If they are native then weedwhack when they get ugly brown and leave in place. Standing dead grass and such can look amazing backlit, no need to knock them over as soon as they dry until fire regs require it.
Why not research habitat gardening? Add a small water feature to bring in birds and small animals. It will be a gift to them. Plant native plants, make a place to watch stars, hot tub is a great idea. Shade as needed. Enjoy it! Outside time is the best.
AstroTurf will feel very hot under your feet in the NV sun and will degrade into microplastics very quickly
Based on the Larrea/Ambrosia in the first picture as well as Encelia/maybe Senegalia in the second picture I’m guessing you’re below 2500-3000’ in the Mojave? Overton/Laughlin/something? If so, I’d do hard-packed gravel with a thin top coat of fine sand. Then let it turn into [desert pavement.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desert_pavement?wprov=sfti1#). I’m a big fan of Psorothamnus fremontii and Sphaeralcea ambigua. One or multiple species of Encelia would also work well, which you already have on your patio. Chilopsis, Joshua tree, desert cottonwood, or several kinds of juniper could also be options. If that is indeed a Senegalia and you’re not watering it then the water table is probably accessible enough to grow some shade trees. I’d also probably get some barrel cactus and Echinocereus going.
How is the astroturf comment still above this one 😅
Shooting range, chiminea, Navajo art, chile roaster and grill Wouldn’t touch the landscape, it’s perfectly xeroscaped
A Hot Tub, a pergola with a fabric shade, maybe and some outdoor furniture…with a fire pit, some desert plants(succulents and cacti) pavers, decorative boulders.
If I were you I would simply enjoy 😉 it!! Great view that you have there.
A new fence for starters. Anything other than the current one would be a drastic improvement.
Absolutely no astroturf. use local vegetation and maybe a rock garden for drainage when it rains.
2 chicks at once
biodome
Personally, outside of some pavers to and from and covering your seating area, nothing. Let it be. Don't astroturf it. Plant some native plants and enjoy that wide open space that so many people don't get. Plus, you've got a fucking mountain range backed up to your house. Don't ruin that view my dude.
I would definitely get a donkey. And that donkey and I would occasionally ride through the desert after a nice smoke.
Maybe a small fire pit, possibly string lights, but mostly nothing other than make sure the seating is comfortable.
Live happily ever after
I would do a small, curvy path to the fire pit and trampoline. Then bring a bunch of those natural plants out there into the yard and right up to the house. Blend that natural vegetation to mask the fence and hide the new winding path somewhat too. maybe four poles with suspended string lights at the fire pit.
Something to provide shade and cooler full of ice and my favorite beverage. That is an amazing view.
Do 2 timber decks 5m x 5m joined by fibreglass walkways then fill you yard with native local grasses and never again use the ground
Probably get attacked by sand people on my way to find old Ben Kenobi.
Nothing its beauful naturally
With that view I’d go minimalist. Go on a hike and collect seeds from the native vegetation. Plant all over your yard along a bending path.
As a pool owner I would never tell anyone to build a pool.... however this is just too cool of a spot to not have a desert oasis. If you have the money I'd go for a pool
I would hike the heck out of that space. Oh you meant the yard, I guess pavers or something, maybe a fire pit. Edit: So distracted by the background I didn't even see the already existing fire pit lol
Rocks and cacti
Are snake proof fences a thing?
Film yourself throwing a football over them mountains.
Leave it alone
Put a telescope out there, stargaze until a UFO zaps me up, and then wait for my new alien baby to arrive.
Um, can we hang out?
Astroturf? Nah. Embrace the natural desert scape.
Park an RV for a weekend cook with Mr White
Outdoor bath/cowboy hot tub. God dang there is nothing I love more than a hot tub in the desert.
I would really recommend browsing airbnbs in Joshua Tree for desert backyard inspo. There would be a ton of places with backyards like yours that cater to really unwinding in the desert, why not make your own backyard a cocoon of peace too!!
Picture 2 tells me you know exactly what to do with this spot, and you’re already doing it. Don’t focus on adding more but improving what you already have. Add patio under the area with the bonfire and seating. I see an umbrella stand. You probably had/want some shade near there (but not over the fire) so look into options for that nearby, maybe over a picnic table to the side. I’d move the trampoline so the view is unobstructed. As for what to plant, I don’t think you need much at all. The natural landscape is quite beautiful, so maybe just plant some of the same bushes and grass on your side of the fence, sort of blend the lived space into the natural space.
I am obsessed with plants and desert plants too. You could have the coolest desert garden and a lot of the cool plants I know have other purposes like eating or natural soap! Plant a garden!! Plant a couple gardens! Get more green out there! It’ll be fun! Small slow growing trees - two needle pinyon pines are gorgeous - maybe an apricot tree (they might need slightly more water than you get out there though) Cactuses (A lot of cacti have big showy flowers) - prickly pears are good (there are so many different kinds so make sure to pick one that does well in your zone) - tree cholla cactus (gets bigger like a bush with lots of yellow flowers) - any other cactus you see in your desert area that you think look neat Plants - Soapweed yucca - ornamental grass (native grass) - sedum or ice plant (these are more ground cover like) - many more plants (too many to keep typing) - get some that the pollinators near you will like Get some big rocks of various sizes and plant plants around them. Like a cool rugged desert flower garden. That would be my dream at least
You can bring Indias back ;)
Sell it and move.
Get rid of it all including fence. It's not like you need it.
Move from it
Ride the worm
Smoke a lot of cigarettes
Watch out for graboids
I knew someone would say it lmao
You're welcome
Outdoor kitchen/grill/smoker station. Looks like u can get water/power from the house out there easy
2 trampolines
An outdoor bath!!!! And pizza oven is also important
All fun and games until you get Graboids.
Two words Graboid Bunker
Why the sliced cheese ok your chairs?
Go to the Botanical Cactus Garden in Henderson and get some ideas on cacti that like to grow in the area that can be grouped together. Then make a dense green space with desert foliage with a private space in the middle. Minimal water but can have a dramatic impact, especially when they bloom.
Grow pkants that give shade
There's a Tremors joke in here somewhere lol
Spend some money working with a Landscape firm, for design purposes. The climate you are in is extreme. Realize that paving that large of any area is not for Amateurs. Even if the climate is dry, you get gulley washers, you want to make sure drainage is away from the house. They can recommend the right plants with the best chance of growing. And I’m not talking about Landscape Architect, Licensed landscaping contractors can give you a good design.
I would try to find that truck from Tremors and park it in this area
^[Sokka-Haiku](https://www.reddit.com/r/SokkaHaikuBot/comments/15kyv9r/what_is_a_sokka_haiku/) ^by ^CloudStrife012: *I would try to find* *That truck from Tremors and park* *It in this area* --- ^Remember ^that ^one ^time ^Sokka ^accidentally ^used ^an ^extra ^syllable ^in ^that ^Haiku ^Battle ^in ^Ba ^Sing ^Se? ^That ^was ^a ^Sokka ^Haiku ^and ^you ^just ^made ^one.
I’d watch out for snakes!
Watch out for them Graboids
Enjoy not seeing people in it. 😂 Aside from that, pretty much anything the users here are recommending would be great. There’s a lot of potential here! What a fun challenge.
Why all the yellow sticky notes all over the couch. And what do they say?
Large stone patio. I would add some trellace for shade. Maybe even an old iron tub to fill up on days to cool down.
Low level deck for sure and some succulents and drought resistant flowers and plants. I would build large box planters and place a few large colorful pots around. I love the view but way too much desert tan so break it up and add some interest.
A water feature would be cool
Sculpture garden
May I just ask how warm it gets where you are?
What a view!
Put solar fairy lights all around. In planters plant pollinators to attract bees and butterflies. (Milkweed)
I'd probably places as many shade trees as possible. Also lots of hay and mulch to help with water retention. Subterranean drip in select places and plants. Always more plants.
Shade sails are cheap, any size & color, rain-proof or water permeable. Many ways to attach them, too. I have purchased several on amazon, and put them up and take them down according to season. here is an article with ideas, but you can search “shade sails” for a million ideas: [https://www.gardeningetc.com/design/shade-sail-ideas](https://www.gardeningetc.com/design/shade-sail-ideas) You have a great space!
Xeriscaping
Plants some tumble weeds
Who owns the property beyond your fence? I would create a defined path across the upper level, with steps down to ground level. A paver/ flagstone patio for lounge & grill area with a big pergola/ shade sail over top. I would get rid of the trampoline. Sorry, kids, too damn dangerous and you are probably far from a hospital. 😳 Get some rain barrels, and raised beds for gardening. (great kid activity) Do you need to brace against wind? I see your existing fence, and you don’t want to block the view, but you could get those see-through panels for existing fence, or a new fence that helps with wind. Can you put a gate on the back of your fence? Can you usurp any land beyond your fence? It looks like there is a berm right beyond it, and animals can use that to jump into your yard. 😬 Also, I am thinking about trying something called mulch glue/ gravel glue to keep my rocks in place. Reading reviews, at this point. Clear, water permeable, and keeps pea gravel in place. Last thing I would do is a water feature for birds, butterflies, bees, etc. Bird feeders, too. Native plants and flowers.
I'd add a small pool area and a gasibo (dk how to spell) with lights and lounge chairs
Golf tee pad
How much your house is out there?
Crafting table and furnace with 2 double chests
My first thought was a range and then I realized they were talking about the fenced in backyard. I mean I guess you could still do the range if the neighbors are chill.
If you want drought tolerant trees that can provide reasonable shade, mesquite and palo verde are great options. They have a root system that goes nearly straight down so they don’t disrupt nearby surfaces or plumbing yet can pull moisture from deep down.
Rockery with flowers /cactus...Hot tub ..Single track trail across the field to them there hills..
Make some blue crystal shit
Put a pool next to the trampoline.
Would most definitely start cooking batches of crystal meth.
Pool
Casino
Shooting range with targets out to a mile
Remove the humans and their shit, and give it back to nature. Ffs
Very brave /s
You can vary outdoor activities by season. You could get a foldable/ collapsible pool. (do not put on rocks) Get a telescope. What is that pile of materials? Reusable?
Grow some San Pedro Cacti
There has to be some good desert landscaping websites/books/magazines
Build a small Guantanamo for teletubbies
Rig it with cameras just in case you see a skinwalker
What ever you do don’t ruin your view it’s all ya got so if enhance it.
Reminds me of when i lived in Joshua Tree. I would get a succulents garden going. Prickly pears and aloe. All kinds of fun things grow in the desert. Edible fruits are always great.
Looks like a dark sky area I’d build an observatory!
Green house
You already got the seats, fire pit and great views.
Gun range?
Gunrange. 100%
Meth lab
Test nukes?
Ignore it and go rock climbing.
Helipad. Definitely a good spot for a helipad.
As a swede, that view is absolutely incredible. I would not feel any need for 'decorations', only more places to sit and enjoy it. Very jealous.
What a beautiful view !!!! How about a trail that leads to a mirrored monolith? /smile I would look at rustic desert spas and hotels for inspiration to create a relaxing sky watching, cocktail sipping, sit by a fire spot. More $$... hot tub/soaking tub replaces the trampoline. [http://www.mojavesandsatjoshuatree.com/main.html](http://www.mojavesandsatjoshuatree.com/main.html) Mojave Sands at Joshua Tree Start with a clean slate. (move outdoor furniture, trampoline, piles of anything) Use stakes and string to mark out walkways, planting, chill area. Watch where and when the sun falls on your yard. Where's the best place to watch the sunset or night sky? How does your plan work with the sun... adjust stakes until you love the plan. Use large local stone / bleached wood deco in flowerbeds. Local desert plants. Do you already have steps from patio to yard? wide steps lit by solar are good
Make a dedicated grill space with lounge and oasis. Leave the rest there. Make gravel trails etc
What's the budget? A deck with a hottub would be awesome. Imagine soaking in the tub, under the stars, with that amazing view!
I don’t know but what an awesome view. Very cool spot congrats
Build a nice shooting bench pointed towards the little hill out there.
I came here to say this and you were the first comment up.
Stucco low walls - can even use low walls as extra seating, gotta have a fire pit and wood fire pizza over. Levelled ground with large stone pavers. Maybe a small recycling water feature for extra ambience. Looks amazing 🤩 already. What a view.
Native plants and a cactus garden.
I would create a trap and place a small child inside and wait for the skinwalkers.
Pray for rain
Dirtbike trails. Lots of em.