The Dusty Desert Drifter

Building The Desert Shack was a labor of love for Scott Bedling Perrin.

Known as “The Dusty Desert Drifter,” Perrin was a Malibu Beach native who transitioned from surfing… to exploring the desert. It was in the desert where Perrin’s passion as an artist was ignited and he became well-known for his unique art and love of prospecting.

Taking off for days and even weeks at a time, Perrin explored the deserts of California collecting truckloads of material for his artwork. From rocks and gemstones, to discarded toys and other rusty treasures, his work reflected his love for forgotten elements of the desert and showcased a blend of nostalgia and creativity.

His creations, including mobiles, collages, and whimsical paintings, became cherished collector’s items for those drawn to his vision of the desert life.

Scott Bedling Perrin the Dusty Desert Drifter Artist, Miner, Builder, Collector

Inspired by his discovered treasures, Perrin created art that expressed his unique view of the world and his rugged desert surroundings.

The Desert Shack, built in 2006, is undoubtedly his largest work of art. It took years as he mapped out every square inch of his home. Perrin's legacy lives on through The Desert Shack which reflects his distinct aesthetic with hand-built doors, iron accents, and rustic décor that brings the desert to life.

Take note of the mission bell, the hand-forged gates and the heavy duty handbill entrance doors

A mission bell, hand-forged metal gates that reveal something new everytime you look at them, hand-built solid wood doors with porthole and pick-axe worked in to the design and function

This vacation rental home is a testament to Perrin's artistic vision, blending natural desert beauty with a curated, eclectic vibe that invites guests to explore the surrounding landscape; which includes stunning mountain views and a rich diversity of desert wildlife​.

A discarded vintage sign becomes artwork when thoughtfully placed at The Desert Shack

Inside you’ll see artifacts Perrin collected over the years, we’ve taken pains to preserve and share his treasured art collection

Collected treasures together form an original Perrin collage set into the bathroom tile of The Desert Shack in Whitewater

There is artistic whimsy at every turn, here is part of a mosaic of found things Perrin has displayed within the tile of the main bathroom

At every turn you see Perrin’s extraordinary take on the desert and his appreciation for the past. Staying at The Desert Shack is like staying in your own private museum, with all the modern comforts.

Born August 30, 1948, Perrin died at the age of 63 while doing what he loved…off-roading in the California desert.

cactus flowers and more unique desert artifacts come together at The Desert Shack

Everything has a use, a purpose and a beauty, from discarded vintage signs to reclaimed metal parts repurposed to a new use

From petrified rocks to vintage glass insulators and a mirror refashioned from up cycled items, Scott Perkins legacy is everywhere at The Desert Shack

Every time you stay at The Desert Shack you’ll see something new from rocks and vintage glassware to up cycled parts made useful again like this mirror

Scott surrounded himself with his cherished treasures and he made his environment a tribute to his spirit and his creative personality.
— Perrin Family
Old warning signs and driftwood at the entrance of The Desert Shack and it's unique telephone pole fencing

Perrin appreciated a discarded sign! And you’ll see them around the property inside and outdoor along with his driftwood accents and discarded pieces and equipment from the multiple mines that dot the desert

The moody and eclectic primary bedroom with it's unique desert aesthetic

The main bedroom with the concrete stamped floors and giant wood-framed closet has a gorgeous vintage cowboy aesthetic

Vintage bottles are gathered together near the metal water bowl left out for wildlife

Look closely as you walk around The 1 acre Desert Shack and you’ll see gathering of The Dusty Desert Drifter’s collections from vintage bottles, to antique toys, rock collections and so much more!

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