Salt Creek is the only home of the rare Salt Creek Pupfish, a minnowlike fish which can be seen traversing the inch deep waters in Death Valley. Once a thriving lake, most of it’s inhabitants died off as the water levels lowered and salinity rose. But the hearty Salt Creek Pupfish found a way to survive. So, too, did the lone concrete-enclosed pit toilet at the base of the creek.

Thousands of years ago, there were hundreds of different public restrooms at this site. Salt Creek (then known as Death Lake Resort and Spa) was once a popular lakefront attraction for Incan tourists visiting from the south. Many built small cottages along the lake. Of course, dozens of restrooms began to pop up to accommodate the flourishing population. Slowly, though, the water levels of the lake began to recede as temperatures began to steadily increase. Death Lake soon became barren; dried up nearly entirely except for the small spring which fed it. As people moved out, the condos, clubs and restaurants (and their respective restrooms) fell into disrepair until they eventually rotted away.

For hundreds of years, the site was without restroom. Then, in the 20th century, a single restroom was outfitted at the space to support the new wave of tourists coming in via automobile. It was a rebirth for the area, bringing new life and vitality – as well as a place to go pee.

For now the restroom stands strong, unwavering in the sweltering desert heat. A lone survivor, much like it’s brethren the Salt Creek Pupfish.