Cadiz Dunes Wilderness
The Cadiz Dunes Wilderness is a pristine and remote desert landscape tucked away in the Mojave Trails National Monument, offering a unique opportunity to experience California’s desert wilderness in its most unspoiled form.
Located in San Bernardino County, this protected area is renowned for its expansive sand dunes and striking location between the Sheephole Valley and Old Woman Mountains. It is perfect for those seeking solitude, scenic views, and a taste of the Mojave Desert’s ecological beauty.
Destination Details
| Season | Best in cooler months (October to April) |
| Location | Cadiz Dunes Wilderness, San Bernardino County, California |
| General GPS Coordinates | 34.374974, -115.385655 |
| Management | Bureau of Land Management (BLM) |
| Size | 19,935 acres |
| Nearest Major City | Twenty Nine Palms, 40 miles to the west |
How to Get to the Destination
Cadiz Dunes Wilderness is located about 40 miles east of Twenty-Nine Palms, accessible from State Highway 62 and historic Route 66. The dunes can be accessed via Cadiz Road. Turn onto Cadiz Dunes Road at GPS coordinates: 34.426851 -115.393003. The trailhead parking is located at GPS coordinates: 34.394403, -115.422744
The final 2.4-mile access road is sandy with deep tire ruts, requiring high clearance and 4WD/AWD vehicles. Those without high clearance can park at the beginning of the road and walk a short distance to the dunes.
You can download a map of Mojave Trails National Monument here. Be prepared for remote conditions and ensure your vehicle is equipped for desert travel.
Destination Overview
Cadiz Dunes Wilderness is a remarkable landscape in the heart of the Mojave Desert, known for its sweeping dunes and desert wildlife. The dunes, formed by sands blown from the dried Cadiz Lake, provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains.
Visitors can hike to the highest dunes, enjoy peaceful solitude, and explore the diverse desert ecosystem. The wilderness is home to various wildlife species, including quail, roadrunners, and the endangered Borrego milkvetch. In the spring, the dunes are transformed with vibrant wildflowers, offering a striking contrast to the arid surroundings.
With limited infrastructure and no motorized vehicle access within the wilderness, it’s a true escape into the untouched desert.
Camping is permitted for up to 14 days, but visitors should take precautions due to the extreme heat, especially during summer months. It is not recommended to camp in this area in summer.
Things to Know
- No motorized vehicles allowed within the wilderness area.
- Temperature precautions are essential, particularly in the summer when temperatures can surpass 115°F.
- Camping is allowed for up to 14 days; however, due to the extreme conditions, it’s advisable to visit during the cooler months, from October to April.
- Nearby points of interest include the nearby salt mines, which have been active since the 1880s and continue to operate today.
Conclusion
With its towering sand dunes, variety of desert wildlife, and occasional wildflower blooms, Cadiz Dunes offers an array of activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. While not a traditional tourist destination, its secluded nature makes it ideal for adventurers looking for a quiet desert retreat.
Be prepared for the heat, especially in summer, and make sure to pack plenty of water as temperatures can easily exceed 115°F.
About Mojave Trails National Monument
On February 12, 2016, President Obama signed a proclamation declaring the Mojave Trails National Monument east of Los Angeles in Southern California.
Mojave Trails National Monument: Spanning 1.6 million acres, more than 350,000 acres of previously congressionally-designated Wilderness, the Mojave Trails National Monument is comprised of a stunning mosaic of rugged mountain ranges, ancient lava flows, and spectacular sand dunes.
The monument will protect irreplaceable historic resources, including ancient Native American trading routes, World War II-era training camps, and the longest remaining undeveloped stretch of Route 66.
Additionally, the area has been a focus of study and research for decades, including geological research and ecological studies on the effects of climate change and land management practices on ecological communities and wildlife.
