Mojave National Preserve
Vast desert wilderness with singing dunes, volcanic landscapes, and quirky historical sites. Explore unique geology and remote beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps for exploring
Mojave National Preserve
Best Time
Pleasant temps for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast desert wilderness with singing dunes, volcanic landscapes, and quirky historical sites. Explore unique geology and remote beauty.
"The Mojave National Preserve is a hidden gem with incredible geological wonders and vast, open spaces."
Download Offline Maps 🗺️
Cell service is unreliable. Download maps before you go to navigate easily.
Pack Plenty of Water 💧
The desert is dry! Carry more water than you think you'll need, especially for hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kelso Dunes
Southern Mojave National Preserve
Towering sand dunes that 'sing' with a deep rumbling sound. Hike to the summit for breathtaking desert panoramas.
Mojave Lava Tubes
Near Cima
Explore ancient volcanic tubes by hiking underground. A unique, albeit tight, adventure for the curious.
Zzyzx Road Oasis
Along I-15
Discover the remnants of a former health spa and a surprising desert oasis. A quirky historical stop.
Mitchell Caverns
Providence Mountains
Venture into stunning limestone caves with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours available.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vastness: Plan Your Mojave Adventure
Timing is Everything: Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download Offline Maps 🗺️
Cell service is unreliable. Download maps before you go to navigate easily.
Pack Plenty of Water 💧
The desert is dry! Carry more water than you think you'll need, especially for hikes.
Fill Up Your Gas Tank ⛽
Gas stations are few and far between. Refuel whenever you see one.
Check Road Conditions 🚗
Some roads are unpaved and can be rough. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for certain areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
Download Offline Maps 🗺️
Cell service is unreliable. Download maps before you go to navigate easily.
Pack Plenty of Water 💧
The desert is dry! Carry more water than you think you'll need, especially for hikes.
Fill Up Your Gas Tank ⛽
Gas stations are few and far between. Refuel whenever you see one.
Check Road Conditions 🚗
Some roads are unpaved and can be rough. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for certain areas.
Respect Wildlife 🌵
Observe animals from a distance and never feed them.
Backcountry Camping is Free! ⛺
Enjoy free backcountry camping near Kelso Dunes with fire pits and pit toilets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the stunning natural beauty and unique geological features of Mojave National Preserve, particularly the Kelso Dunes and Lava Tubes. The friendly and informative staff at the Barstow Visitor Center are often highlighted. However, some reviewers express frustration with closed facilities and unresponsive staff at other locations, as well as the extreme summer heat.
"Staff was super friendly and informative. There is a nice diorama of the area surrounding the Mojave Preserve so a great place to get your National Park stamps while they are renovating their other locations."
B Young
"It was obvious this office did not get many visitors. We were through the door when supervisor basically trapped up.
I would have preferred to enjoy small exhibit, then ask questions.
My partner mentioned Los Angeles, & got political commentary. We wanted to ser some of preserve, but totalky turned off.
Also, no postcards & stamp not evrn on correct date for my passport book."
E M
"Wow! We were so glad we finally stopped at the Visitor Center on Barstow Road. The restroom was super clean. The Ranger was one of the friendliest I have met in the 100 plus national parks/monuments/preserves/recreation areas I have visited. I think his name was Rommel. Though he was new to the Preserve, he was very helpful and engaging. We have camped at Hole in the wall, Mid-Hills and other dispersed sites in the Preserve. We have done Mitchell Caverns and Kelso Dunes. Today we wanted info on the Lava Tube. After our amazing stop at the Visitor Center we proceeded to the Lava Tube and had an awesome time there."
Chris Mertes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Los Angeles, take I-15 North towards Las Vegas. The preserve has multiple entrances. The main visitor center is located off Barstow Road. For Kelso Dunes, continue on I-15 and take the Kelbaker Road exit. For the Lava Tubes, take Cima Road exit. 
No, public transportation options are extremely limited within and to the preserve. A personal vehicle is essential for exploring Mojave National Preserve.
Key roads include Kelbaker Road, Cima Road, and the unpaved Mojave Road (4WD recommended). The I-15 freeway runs along the western edge, with exits providing access.
Yes, you can drive through the preserve using the main paved roads like Kelbaker Road and Cima Road. The historic Mojave Road is a challenging off-road experience.
Mojave National Preserve does not currently charge an entrance fee. However, fees may apply for specific facilities or tours, such as Mitchell Caverns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No advance ticket purchase is required for general entry into Mojave National Preserve as there is no entrance fee. However, for guided tours like Mitchell Caverns, it's advisable to check the NPS website for availability and booking information.
The preserve is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and specific facilities like Mitchell Caverns have limited operating hours, which can vary seasonally. Always check the official NPS website for the most current information.
There are no general entry restrictions. However, certain areas may be temporarily closed due to weather, road conditions, or maintenance. It's always a good idea to check the NPS website for any alerts before your visit.
Yes, you can get your National Park passport stamped. The Visitor Center on Barstow Road is a reliable place for this, though some reviews mention occasional issues with staff availability.
Camping in designated campgrounds like Hole-in-the-Wall and Mid Hills typically has a fee. However, backcountry camping in many areas, such as near Kelso Dunes, is free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Kelso Dunes for their unique 'singing' sand, the fascinating Mojave Lava Tubes for an underground adventure, and the historic Zzyzx Road. Mitchell Caverns offers a glimpse into subterranean beauty.
You might spot desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, coyotes, various reptiles, and numerous bird species. Keep an eye out, especially during dawn and dusk.
Yes, there are numerous trails ranging from short walks to longer backcountry treks. Popular options include the Kelso Dunes Loop and trails around Hole-in-the-Wall.
The Mojave Lava Tubes are generally safe for those comfortable with tight spaces and uneven terrain. Watch your head as entrances can be very narrow. It's recommended to go with a buddy and bring a headlamp.
Facilities include visitor centers, campgrounds (some with fees), picnic areas, and pit toilets at trailheads. Water is scarce, so bring your own.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food services within Mojave National Preserve. Visitors must bring all their own food and drinks. Plan to eat before entering or after exiting the preserve.
The nearest towns with grocery stores are typically Barstow or Baker. It's best to stock up on supplies before heading into the preserve.
Campfires are generally permitted in designated campgrounds with established fire rings, but always check for current fire restrictions. Backcountry camping may allow for contained fires in some areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Kelso Dunes at sunrise or sunset offers dramatic light on the sand. The volcanic landscapes near the Lava Tubes and the stark beauty of the desert flora are also excellent subjects.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most dramatic and flattering light for landscape photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
Formal photography tours are not widely advertised. However, the preserve's unique landscapes make it a photographer's dream for self-guided exploration.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
Yes, while not as dense as Joshua Tree National Park, Mojave National Preserve does have Joshua Trees, particularly in areas like Cima. They make for iconic desert photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Mojave Lava Tubes are exciting but may be too tight or dark for very young children; assess your kids' comfort with enclosed spaces. Pack extra water and snacks, as facilities are minimal. Consider visiting during cooler months or focusing on early morning/late evening activities to avoid extreme heat. The Visitor Center on Barstow Road can be a good starting point for information and Junior Ranger programs.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
The drive itself is scenic, with vast desert vistas. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and you have a full tank of gas before entering. For those with more time, a two-day itinerary allows for deeper exploration, including potential visits to Mitchell Caverns or backcountry camping.
Remember that cell service is unreliable, so download offline maps and be prepared for remote conditions. 🏕️ Campers & Backpackers
For a more primitive experience, backcountry camping near Kelso Dunes is free and offers incredible stargazing opportunities. Always check the NPS website for current regulations, fire restrictions, and permit requirements for backcountry camping. Pack out everything you pack in to preserve the pristine desert environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Volcanic Heart of Mojave
+1These geological wonders provide a stark contrast to the arid desert environment. The black volcanic rock creates a visually striking scene, often compared to otherworldly landscapes. For photographers, these areas offer incredible opportunities to capture the raw power of nature. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring a headlamp for exploring the tubes.
Understanding this volcanic history adds another layer of appreciation for the preserve's unique geology. It's a reminder of the dynamic forces that have shaped this region over millennia, creating the rugged beauty that visitors come to experience.
The Allure of Kelso Dunes
Hiking to the summit of Kelso Dunes offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding desert. The trek can be challenging due to the soft sand, but the reward is a sense of vastness and solitude. Many visitors enjoy camping near the dunes, with free backcountry sites available, some equipped with fire pits.
For the best experience, visit during the cooler parts of the day, like sunrise or sunset, to avoid the intense desert heat and capture the most dramatic light. The sheer scale and the mysterious sounds make Kelso Dunes a truly unforgettable part of the Mojave National Preserve.
+1Zzyzx Road: A Quirky Desert Stop
While the spa is long gone, the area has been repurposed by the Desert Studies Center, a consortium of California State Universities. Visitors can explore the grounds, see the historic buildings, and even find a small pond with a fountain, creating an unexpected oasis in the arid landscape. It's a fascinating stop for those interested in offbeat history and quirky roadside attractions.
This unique spot provides a stark contrast to the rugged natural beauty of the rest of the preserve, offering a moment of reflection on human endeavors in the harsh desert environment. It's a quick but memorable stop for anyone driving through the area.
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