National Preserve · CA

Mojave National Preserve

Mojave preserves a diverse mosaic of ecological habitats and a 10,000 year history of human connection with the desert. Offering extensive opportunities to experience desert landscapes, the preserve promotes understanding and appreciation for the increasingly threatened resources of the Mojave Desert. This remote preserve encourages a sense of discovery and a connection to wild places.

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Photos

Kelso Dunes with rays of light coming through the clouds. Mountains in the background..
Kelso Dunes is the most popular hike at Mojave National Preserve.
Spring wildflowers carpeting the desert floor
Many people visit Mojave in the spring season to view stunning wildflower displays.
A desert tortoise rest in the shade of a bush near some hikers
Mojave has a great diversity of wildlife. In spring and fall, the elusive desert tortoise can be seen foraging food.
A lonely desert trail leads to tall sand dunes
Mojave has endless options for hikers. Kelso Sand Dunes are a popular trail in cooler months.
A man standing on a mountain peak in front of a wide desert landscape
Mojave is a hiker's paradise. With no less than 9 named mountain ranges int he park, there's no shortage of amazing views to be had.
A Joshua tree seen though the window of an old miner's cabin
Visitors can still hear the echos of history here. Evidence of days long past still persist in Mojave. Native American petroglyphs, long-abandoned mines, and cattle ranches still dot the landscape.
Kelso Dunes with rays of light coming through the clouds. Mountains in the background..
Kelso Dunes is the most popular hike at Mojave National Preserve.

Activities

  • Auto and ATV
  • Auto Off-Roading
  • Scenic Driving
  • Astronomy
  • Stargazing
  • Biking
  • Mountain Biking
  • Road Biking
  • Camping
  • Backcountry Camping
  • Car or Front Country Camping
  • Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
  • Group Camping
  • RV Camping
  • Food
  • Picnicking
  • Hiking
  • Backcountry Hiking
  • Front-Country Hiking
  • Off-Trail Permitted Hiking
  • Horse Trekking
  • Horse Camping (see also camping)
  • Horseback Riding
  • Hunting and Gathering
  • Hunting
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Birdwatching
  • Park Film
  • Museum Exhibits
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store