Overview
Mojave National Preserve covers roughly 1.6 million acres in the southeastern corner of California, tucked between Interstate 15 to the north and Interstate 40 to the south. Administered by the National Park Service, it is one of the largest units in the NPS system in the contiguous United States, yet it draws far fewer visitors than nearby Joshua Tree or Death Valley — a quality many travelers actively seek out.
The preserve encompasses a striking range of desert landscapes: the Kelso Dunes (among the tallest sand dunes in North America), the Cinder Cones Lava Bed volcanic field, dense forests of Joshua trees, granite outcrops, and the broad Mojave Road — a historic wagon route still passable by high-clearance vehicles. Wildlife including desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, kit foxes, and numerous bird species inhabit the area.
The town of Kelso, near the geographic center of the preserve, is home to the restored Kelso Depot, a 1924 Union Pacific railroad station that now serves as the preserve's primary visitor center. It is one of the most architecturally distinctive visitor centers in the NPS system and a good first stop for maps, ranger advice, and orientation.
Because Mojave National Preserve is a preserve rather than a park, certain activities permitted on national forest lands — including some hunting and grazing — are allowed here under specific regulations. Travelers should verify current rules with rangers before assuming any activity is permitted.
Before You Go
Entry and Fees
Mojave National Preserve does not charge an entrance fee at the time of writing, but fees and policies can change — verify on the official NPS site (nps.gov/moja) before your trip. America the Beautiful annual passes are accepted at fee-collecting sites within the preserve.
Cell Service and Connectivity
Cell coverage is extremely limited throughout most of the preserve. Download offline maps (CalTopo, Gaia GPS, or Google Maps offline areas) before leaving populated areas. A paper copy of the preserve map available at Kelso Depot or from the NPS website is strongly recommended.
Water
Potable water is only reliably available at Kelso Depot and the Hole-in-the-Wall campground area. There are no services along most interior roads. Carry significantly more water than you think you need — rangers commonly recommend at least one gallon per person per day in warm weather, and more during summer.
Fuel
There are no fuel stations inside the preserve. The nearest options are in communities along I-15 (Baker, Primm) and I-40 (Needles, Ludlow, Barstow). Fill your tank before entering and know your vehicle's range on rough roads.
Permits
Overnight backcountry camping requires free permits available at self-registration stations. Check NPS resources for any additional permit requirements for specific activities.
Getting There
By Car
The preserve is most easily reached by private vehicle. Interstate 15 forms the northern boundary, with access roads at Cima Road and Kelbaker Road exits. Interstate 40 borders the south, with access at Essex Road (leading to Hole-in-the-Wall) and other junctions. Kelbaker Road bisects the preserve north-to-south and is paved, passing through Kelso.
Nearest Airports
Las Vegas (Harry Reid International, LAS) is approximately 90 miles to the northeast and is often the most convenient air gateway. Los Angeles International (LAX) is roughly 180 miles to the west. Neither airport has direct shuttle service to the preserve; a rental car is effectively essential.
By Bus
There is no scheduled public transit into or through the preserve. Greyhound stops in Barstow and Needles, both outside the preserve boundaries, but onward travel to the preserve from those stops requires a vehicle.
Road Conditions
Kelbaker Road and Cima Road are paved. Many interior roads — including sections of Mojave Road — are unpaved, sandy, or rocky and require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles. Conditions change after weather events; check with Kelso Depot rangers or call the preserve information line before driving remote routes.
Getting Around
A private vehicle is the only practical way to explore the preserve. Distances between attractions are significant, and hiking trailheads are spread across the preserve with no connecting shuttle.
Paved Roads
Kelbaker Road (linking Baker on I-15 to Amboy on I-40 via Kelso) and Cima Road (from I-15 to Kelso) are the main paved arteries. Most family sedans can handle these without difficulty in dry conditions.
Unpaved Roads
The Mojave Road historic route, Black Canyon Road near Hole-in-the-Wall, and many spur roads require high-clearance vehicles and in places four-wheel drive. Sandy washes can trap two-wheel-drive vehicles. Deflating tires slightly for deep sand is a common practice among experienced desert drivers — re-inflate before returning to pavement.
Cycling and Hiking
Bicycling is permitted on roads open to vehicles. There are no dedicated bike paths. Hiking is possible throughout the preserve on established trails and cross-country; a topographic map and compass or GPS are essential off marked routes.
Where to Stay
Camping in the Preserve
Mojave National Preserve has two developed campgrounds: Hole-in-the-Wall and Mid Hills. Both offer basic amenities including pit toilets and picnic tables; water availability varies and should be verified before arrival. Reservations may be available through recreation.gov — check the NPS site for current booking status and fees.
Primitive backcountry camping is permitted throughout much of the preserve at least one mile from paved roads and established campgrounds, subject to NPS regulations. Self-register at available stations.
Lodging Near the Preserve
There are no hotels or motels inside the preserve. The towns of Baker (I-15) and Needles (I-40/US-95) have basic motel options and are the closest communities with lodging. Barstow, roughly 60 miles west on I-15, has a broader range of hotels and services. Verify current availability and book in advance for holiday weekends.
Group and Equestrian Use
The preserve has facilities for equestrian camping in some areas. Contact Kelso Depot directly for current group and equestrian information before planning such a trip.
Things to See & Do
Kelso Dunes
The Kelso Dunes rise up to approximately 650 feet and are among the most visited sites in the preserve. A roughly 3-mile round-trip hike from the parking area reaches the crest. The dunes are known for a phenomenon called "booming" — a low rumbling sound sometimes produced when dry sand avalanches down the slip face. Visit in the morning before temperatures rise.
Kelso Depot Visitor Center
The restored 1924 Union Pacific depot is worth a visit in its own right. Exhibits cover the preserve's natural and cultural history, rangers provide trip-planning advice, and restrooms and water are available. Hours vary seasonally — verify locally.
Cinder Cones National Natural Landmark
The Cima Volcanic Field contains dozens of cinder cones and lava flows, some geologically young in desert terms. Aiken Mine Road provides vehicle access to the area. The surreal landscape rewards exploration on foot, though there are no formal maintained trails.
Hole-in-the-Wall and Rings Trail
This area in the southern preserve features rhyolite formations eroded into unusual shapes. The Rings Trail is a short but memorable loop that descends through a narrow canyon using metal rings embedded in the rock — a genuine hands-on experience. A campground and information kiosk are located nearby.
Night Sky Viewing
Mojave National Preserve holds an International Dark Sky Park designation. On moonless nights far from campground lights, the Milky Way is often clearly visible with the naked eye. The Kelso Dunes area and Cima Road corridor are popular viewing spots.
Mojave Road
This roughly 140-mile historic route crosses the preserve east to west along a path used for centuries by Indigenous peoples and later by traders and the military. The full route requires high-clearance 4WD and considerable desert driving experience. Shorter segments can be sampled by day-trippers with appropriate vehicles.
Joshua Tree Forests
The Cima Dome area supports what is considered one of the densest and most extensive Joshua tree forests in the world — arguably denser than Joshua Tree National Park itself. The trees grow at higher elevations on Cima Dome, accessible from Cima Road.
Food & Drink
There are no restaurants, cafes, or grocery stores inside Mojave National Preserve. Self-sufficiency with food and water is not optional — it is a safety requirement.
Stock up on food and supplies in Barstow, Needles, Las Vegas, or the Inland Empire before entering the preserve. Baker, on I-15, has a small number of fast-food and convenience options and is a common last stop before heading south into the preserve.
For camping meals, a camp stove is practical and fire restrictions often prohibit open fires depending on conditions and season. Check current fire rules at the visitor center or on the NPS website before your trip.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
The preserve has no hospital or urgent care facility. The nearest hospitals are in Needles, Barstow, and Las Vegas. Cell service is unreliable; a satellite communicator device (such as a SPOT or Garmin inReach) is strongly recommended for backcountry travel. The San Bernardino County Sheriff provides law enforcement services — verify the current contact number locally or through NPS before your visit.
Weather
Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F (38°C) and can reach 115°F (46°C) or higher in low-elevation areas. Winter nights can drop below freezing, and snow occasionally falls on higher ground such as Cima Dome. Flash floods can occur rapidly after thunderstorms, particularly July through September during monsoon season. Check weather forecasts from the National Weather Service before entering.
Leave No Trace
The desert ecosystem is fragile. Biological soil crust (cryptobiotic soil) can take decades to recover from a single footstep. Stay on established roads and trails where possible, pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife including the federally protected desert tortoise.
Accessibility
Kelso Depot is accessible. Some campground facilities meet accessibility standards. Most trails and interior roads are not accessible to visitors with limited mobility — verify specific needs with park staff before visiting.
Safety
Heat is the primary hazard for most visitors. Exertion during midday in summer can be life-threatening even for healthy adults. Plan hikes for early morning, carry abundant water, and know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Flash flooding is a serious risk in washes and canyons during and after rainstorms, even if the storm is occurring miles away. Never camp in a wash and move to high ground quickly if you hear rushing water or the sky darkens upstream.
The desert environment presents other hazards: rattlesnakes (several species are present), scorpions, and cholla cactus (whose barbed spines attach easily to skin and clothing). Watch where you step and place your hands, especially when moving rocks or reaching into crevices.
Vehicle breakdowns in remote areas can become emergencies quickly. Carry a full-size spare tire, basic tools, extra water, food, and a means of signaling for help. Inform someone not traveling with you of your planned route and expected return time.
