Desert in a Minute: Ocotillo Lodge’s Mid-Century Design and Rolling Stones Legend

One of Palm Springs’ most enduring landmarks is the Ocotillo Lodge, a postmodern mid-century marvel with a history that blends architecture, celebrity ownership, and rock-and-roll lore.

The Ocotillo Lodge opened in 1957 as a hotel and marked the first Palm Springs project built by the Alexander Construction Company. Designed by architect William Kreisel, the lodge reflected the same architectural techniques, landscaping materials, and color palettes used in the Twin Palms neighborhood just behind the property. Each unit featured a one-bedroom, one-bath layout with a living room and kitchenette, showcasing the Alexanders’ vision for modern desert living.

The hotel was intended as a showplace for potential homebuyers, but it quickly attracted high-profile owners. In 1963, the property was purchased by Gene Autry, the legendary singing cowboy and owner of the California Angels. Just five years later, in 1968, the hotel was sold to Jerry Buss, who still owned the Ocotillo Lodge when he acquired the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979.

For decades, a story circulated that the Rolling Stones once rehearsed at the Ocotillo Lodge during the early 1970s. However, new insight from valley resident Mike Clemens suggests something even more memorable. Clemens, who worked there as a busboy while attending Palm Springs High School, recalled that it was not a rehearsal at all, but a party. After finishing his shift, he followed music to a bungalow and discovered the Rolling Stones celebrating. According to Clemens, the night stretched into the early morning hours ahead of the band’s performance at the Forum, another venue owned by Jerry Buss.

Today, the Ocotillo Lodge continues to serve the Palm Springs community, now operating as condominiums for longer-term stays. Its walls still tell stories of modern design, celebrity influence, and unforgettable moments in music history.

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