Mojave National Preserve
A vast desert wilderness offering unique geological wonders, solitude, and breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Mojave National Preserve
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast desert wilderness offering unique geological wonders, solitude, and breathtaking landscapes.
"Absolutely stunning and deafeningly quiet, one of the most incredible places on Earth."
Pack plenty of water! 💧
Crucial for desert survival. No services for miles, so bring more than you think you'll need.
Download offline maps 🗺️
Cell service is spotty to non-existent. Essential for navigation in this vast preserve.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kelso Dunes
Southern Mojave National Preserve
Experience the 'singing sands' of these massive dunes, a truly unique desert phenomenon.
Mojave Lava Tubes
Near Cima Dome
Hike underground through ancient lava tubes, a surreal and unforgettable adventure.
Mitchell Caverns
Providence Mountains
Explore stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations on a guided tour of these desert caves.
Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Trail
Northern Mojave National Preserve
A short, adventurous hike featuring a slot canyon with metal rings for climbing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vastness: Prepare for Remote Exploration
Road Conditions & Vehicle Choice
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack plenty of water! 💧
Crucial for desert survival. No services for miles, so bring more than you think you'll need.
Download offline maps 🗺️
Cell service is spotty to non-existent. Essential for navigation in this vast preserve.
Check road conditions 🚗
Unpaved roads can be rough or impassable after rain. Stick to main roads if you have a low-clearance vehicle.
Visit Mitchell Caverns on weekends
Tours are typically Friday-Sunday. Book reservations in advance!
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack plenty of water! 💧
Crucial for desert survival. No services for miles, so bring more than you think you'll need.
Download offline maps 🗺️
Cell service is spotty to non-existent. Essential for navigation in this vast preserve.
Check road conditions 🚗
Unpaved roads can be rough or impassable after rain. Stick to main roads if you have a low-clearance vehicle.
Visit Mitchell Caverns on weekends
Tours are typically Friday-Sunday. Book reservations in advance!
Embrace the quiet 🤫
One of the most peaceful places on Earth. Enjoy the solitude and stunning desert landscapes.
Look for the 'booming' dunes
Kelso Dunes are known to 'boom' or 'sing' when conditions are right.
Explore Zzyzx Road's history
Discover the remnants of a former health retreat and its unique oasis.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, quiet beauty and unique geological features of Mojave National Preserve, calling it one of the most incredible places on Earth. The vastness and solitude are major draws, offering a stark contrast to busy tourist spots. However, the lack of services, extreme heat in summer, and potential for challenging road conditions require thorough preparation.
"This place is so mind blowing, I’m from the east coast and this was my first time west, was here in October so not the normal heat. I climbed a volcano, lost my phone so had to climb it again (thanks Apple Watch) explored the lave tubes and that was sooooooo freaking awesome, tried climbing a sand dune but after walking an hour toward something that looked 20 minutes away it still looked 20 minutes away so I had to bail ( I’m in my 50s) and don’t tell anyone but I got to see how fast a rental car can go hehe. It’s really an amazing experience to see the dessert."
Mark Dahmen
"Absolutely stunning and deafeningly quiet, one of the most incredible places on Earth. We took the scenic drive through the Mojave National Preserve on our way to California from Vegas (Cima Rd to Kelso-Cima Rd, then to Kelbaker Rd North), and it was well worth it. We had a rental car with low clearance and without 4-wheel drive, so we stuck to the main roads, which were in good condition when we went. It's definitely worth the detour, and a longer trip if you have the vehicle and experience for it!"
Taylor Phelps
"I have been all around this area, but not in the Mojave national preserve. It was beautiful and very well-maintained. It’s about an hour and a half from Las Vegas. And there are so many cool abandoned minds to check out. A lot of them have grates over them, but you can still get a really good idea. And there are also great hiking trails."
Danora Ramsey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
A scenic route involves taking Cima Road from I-15 South, connecting to Kelso-Cima Road, and then to Kelbaker Road North. This allows you to see many of the preserve's highlights. Be aware that some roads are unpaved and may require a high-clearance vehicle. Always check road conditions before you go. +1
Mojave National Preserve is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours driving time from Las Vegas, depending on your starting point within the preserve and traffic.
Yes, you can drive through Mojave National Preserve in a regular car by sticking to the main paved roads like Cima Road and Kelbaker Road. However, many interior roads are unpaved and may require a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle.
No, there are no gas stations within Mojave National Preserve. It is highly recommended to fill up your gas tank before entering the preserve, as services are very limited.
Major access points include exits off Interstate 15 (e.g., Cima Road, Kelbaker Road) and State Route 95. There isn't a traditional 'entrance gate' with a fee, but rather points where you enter the preserve's vast area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mojave National Preserve does not currently charge an entrance fee. It is free to enter and explore.
The preserve is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and specific attractions like Mitchell Caverns have limited hours and days of operation. Always check the official NPS website for the most current information.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended and often required for Mitchell Caverns tours, especially on weekends. You can book them through ReserveCalifornia.com. Tours are typically only available Friday through Sunday.
Yes, camping is permitted in Mojave National Preserve. There are designated campgrounds like Hole-in-the-Wall and Mid-Hills, as well as dispersed camping opportunities in many areas. Some sites are first-come, first-served.
Yes, there are visitor centers, including the main Mojave National Preserve Visitor Center near the I-40 and the Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center. These centers offer maps, information, and exhibits about the preserve's natural and cultural history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Kelso Dunes for their unique 'booming' sound, the fascinating Mojave Lava Tubes, the stunning Mitchell Caverns, and the adventurous Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Trail. The Teutonia Peak Trail offers a hike through Joshua trees. 
You might spot desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, coyotes, various reptiles, and numerous bird species. Keep an eye out, especially during dawn and dusk.
Absolutely! Popular trails include the Teutonia Peak Trail (through Joshua trees), the Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Trail (slot canyon), and the Kelso Dunes trail. Many unmaintained routes also offer backcountry hiking opportunities.
Zzyzx Road leads to a unique desert oasis that was once a health spa. It's a fascinating historical site with remnants of its past and a small lake, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.
Yes, there are many designated off-highway vehicle (OHV) routes and unpaved roads suitable for 4-wheel driving. However, always check current conditions and be prepared for remote travel.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or fast-food establishments within Mojave National Preserve. You must bring all your own food and drinks. Pack a picnic or plan to eat before or after your visit. +1
The nearest towns with grocery stores are typically Baker, California, or towns further afield like Barstow or Needles. It's best to stock up before you arrive.
Campfire regulations vary by season and fire danger. Always check current restrictions with the National Park Service before planning a campfire. Designated fire rings are usually required.
Potable water is extremely limited and may only be available at some visitor centers or campgrounds. It is essential to carry all the water you will need for your visit.
Pack non-perishable, easy-to-eat items like sandwiches, trail mix, energy bars, fruit, and plenty of water. Consider a cooler for longer trips.
📸 📸 Photography
The Kelso Dunes offer dramatic landscapes, especially at sunrise and sunset. The lava tubes provide unique interior shots, and the vast desert vistas along Cima Road and Kelbaker Road are stunning. Don't forget the Joshua tree forests near Cima Dome.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for desert landscapes, creating long shadows and vibrant colors. Midday can be harsh due to the intense sun.
Capturing the 'booming' effect of the Kelso Dunes, the ethereal light within the lava tubes, and the stark beauty of the desert flora and fauna are highly recommended.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions and long exposures. Protect your gear from dust.
While there are old mines in the area, many are unsafe and have grates over them. Photographing them from a safe distance is possible, but exploring them is not recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a scenic drive along Cima Road to see the Joshua tree forests, which are always a hit with younger visitors. Keep an eye out for desert wildlife like lizards and tortoises. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and you have downloaded offline maps, as cell service is unreliable.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
For those with a bit more time, a day trip can include a visit to Mitchell Caverns (check weekend availability and book ahead!) or a hike on the Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Trail. Remember to fill up your gas tank and pack all necessary supplies, including water and food, as services are scarce.
🏕️ Campers & Backpackers
Backpackers will find a vast network of trails and backcountry areas to explore. Be prepared for self-sufficiency: carry ample water, know your route, and practice Leave No Trace principles. The solitude and stunning desert landscapes make it an unforgettable adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Unique Geology: Dunes, Lava Tubes, and Caves
Further exploration reveals the Mojave Lava Tubes, remnants of ancient volcanic activity. These underground tunnels, formed by flowing lava, offer a surreal hiking experience. Visitors can walk through these tubes, marveling at the natural formations, though caution is advised due to tight spaces and potential for dust.
+1For a different kind of underground wonder, Mitchell Caverns in the Providence Mountains provide a glimpse into a world of intricate stalactites and stalagmites. These limestone caves are accessible via guided tours, offering a cool respite and a chance to see the delicate beauty of desert cave formations.
Navigating the Preserve: Roads and Vehicle Considerations
For those with standard rental cars or low-clearance vehicles, sticking to the paved routes is the safest bet. These roads still offer access to many key attractions like the Kelso Dunes and visitor centers. However, if you plan to explore more remote areas, visit abandoned mines, or access certain trailheads, a high-clearance vehicle or a 4WD/4x4 is highly recommended.
Flash floods are a significant concern in the desert, especially during monsoon season. Unpaved roads can quickly become impassable or dangerous after rain. Always check the latest road conditions with the National Park Service before setting out, and be prepared to alter your plans if necessary. Downloading offline maps is crucial, as cell service is unreliable throughout the preserve.
Camping and Backcountry Adventures
For the more adventurous, dispersed camping is allowed in many areas, offering a more primitive experience. This means finding a suitable spot away from established roads and facilities. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out everything you pack in, and be aware of fire restrictions.
Backpacking is also a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the preserve's vastness. Trails range from short day hikes to multi-day treks. Always inform someone of your itinerary, carry ample water, and be prepared for the desert's extreme conditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit