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Mojave National Preserve wilderness guide
National Preserve · CA

Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve offers an expansive desert landscape with a unique mix of habitats, geological formations, and rich history for outdoor enthusiasts.

National Preserve1,600,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

1,600,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve offers an expansive desert landscape with a unique mix of habitats, geological formations, and rich history for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Mojave National Preserve, located in southeastern California, encompasses nearly 1.6 million acres of the Mojave Desert. It's a diverse area known for its iconic Joshua trees, vast sand dunes, volcanic formations, and a wide array of wildlife including bighorn sheep and desert tortoises. The preserve offers a significant glimpse into the geological and ecological history of this expansive desert region. Historical sites within Mojave, such as the Kelso Depot and the remains of mining towns, add a cultural and historical dimension to its natural beauty. Popular recreational activities include hiking, horseback riding, and camping under star-studded skies. The preserve serves as a critical habitat for many species and is particularly noted for its spring wildflower displays. With its less crowded trails and remote feel, Mojave National Preserve provides a more isolated, tranquil experience compared to other desert destinations.

Field Guide · National Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mojave National Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Nature's Majesty: The Mojave Desert★ 8.8⌖ 0 miHiking
Mojave Desert

Nature's Majesty: The Mojave Desert

Explore the Mojave Desert, known for its rugged beauty and iconic Joshua trees. Ideal for hiking and climbing, this remote area is best visited in spring or fall. Don't miss stargazing opportunities under clear, dark skies.

Desert Wonders of the Mojave National Preserve★ 8.7⌖ 8 miHiking
Mojave National Preserve

Desert Wonders of the Mojave National Preserve

Explore the desert wonderland of Mojave National Preserve near Essex, CA. Discover diverse landscapes and landmarks like Kelso Dunes and Cima Dome. Ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, it's a serene escape with spring and fall offering moderate climates.

Shifting Sands of Kelso Dunes★ 8.5⌖ 16 miHiking
Kelso Dunes

Shifting Sands of Kelso Dunes

Explore the shifting sands of Kelso Dunes in the Mojave Desert, with its unique singing sands. Enjoy hiking, sandboarding, and stargazing amidst vast landscapes. Visit in cooler months for a serene adventure, offering views up to 650 feet above the desert floor.

Mojave Desert Lava Tube: A Glimpse into Earth's Fiery Past★ 8.2⌖ 21 miExploring
Mojave Desert Lava Tube

Mojave Desert Lava Tube: A Glimpse into Earth's Fiery Past

Explore the Mojave Desert Lava Tube, located 500 feet underground inside Mojave National Preserve. This easy walk offers a unique view of geological formations and the desert landscape. Ideal for adventure seekers and those interested in photography. Best visited in spring or fall.

Volcanic Wonders at Amboy Crater, California★ 7.8⌖ 37 miHiking
Amboy Crater

Volcanic Wonders at Amboy Crater, California

Amboy Crater in California's Mojave Desert offers a 2-mile moderate hike around a volcanic cinder cone with panoramic desert views. Accessible by dirt road near historic Route 66, it's ideal for hiking, photography, and exploring unique geology, best visited in cooler months.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Kelso Sand Dunes, one of the largest dune fields in the United States where you can experience the phenomenon of 'singing sands.'✦ The Cima Dome and its dense Joshua tree forest, offering intriguing insights into desert ecology.✦ Historic landmarks like the Kelso Depot, providing a glimpse into the area's railroad and mining history.✦ The Hole-in-the-Wall rings trail, known for its unique geological formations and challenging rock scrambling.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mojave National Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mojave National Preserve
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Mojave National Preserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mojave National Preserve
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Mojave National Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mojave National Preserve
Park Recreation

Horseback Riding

Available in Mojave National Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Mojave National Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee, but donations are appreciated.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Mojave National Preserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Hole-in-the-Wall Campground

Located near stunning rock formations with 35 campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Mid Hills Campground

Tucked among pinyons and junipers, ideal for those seeking a more remote camping experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Mojave National Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Baker
⌖ 38.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Baker, California

A unique desert outpost providing gateway access to remote adventures in the Mojave Desert and beyond.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Searchlight
⌖ 44.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Searchlight, Nevada

A rugged desert gateway where rich mining history meets vast, sun-baked landscapes perfect for bold outdoor pursuits.

Fall through SpringExplore Town
Needles
⌖ 50.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Needles, California

A sun-soaked desert gateway blending riverfront recreation and rugged landscape adventure along the Colorado River in the Mojave Desert.

Fall to SpringExplore Town
Bullhead City
⌖ 52.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bullhead City, Arizona

A vibrant riverside desert town offering diverse water and land adventures with a relaxed, sunny atmosphere ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Winter to early SpringExplore Town
Laughlin
⌖ 52.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laughlin, Nevada

A riverside haven that combines desert landscapes with water-based adventures along the Colorado River.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Katherine
⌖ 53.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Katherine, Arizona

A rugged desert gateway with quiet trails and hidden canyons that offer a raw, intimate adventure experience away from the typical Arizona tourist path.

Late Fall through Early SpringExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mojave National Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.