Hole-in-The-Wall Campground – Mojave National Preserve

Hole-in-the-Wall Campground, located in the Mojave National Preserve at an elevation of 4,400 feet, is surrounded by striking volcanic rock formations, offering visitors a peaceful and scenic basecamp for hiking and outdoor exploration.

The campground is situated about 10 miles north of Essex Road, making it an easily accessible destination for campers seeking a tranquil getaway.

Campground Details

Site Types	Tent, RV, Walk-In Sites
Amenities	Pit Toilets, Trash Receptacles, Fire Rings, Picnic Tables
Reservations	Yes
Reservations Website	Recreation.gov
Campground Address	Mojave National Preserve, California
GPS Coordinates	35.048205, -115.394108
Location	Mojave National Preserve
Season	Year-round, subject to weather conditions

How to Get to Hole-in-the-Wall Campground

To reach Hole-in-the-Wall Campground, take Exit 33 from I-40 onto Essex Road. Drive north for 10 miles until you reach the junction with Black Canyon Road. From there, follow Black Canyon Road for another 10 miles to the campground.

Campground Overview

Hole-in-the-Wall Campground is a serene spot nestled among the sculptured volcanic rock formations of the Mojave National Preserve. With 35 campsites, including two walk-in sites, the campground provides a range of accommodations for both tent campers and RVers.

Note that there are no utility hookups, and firewood is not provided, so campers are encouraged to bring their own.

The campground is equipped with essential facilities, including pit toilets, picnic tables, trash receptacles, and fire rings, ensuring a comfortable and convenient camping experience. However, visitors should be prepared for primitive camping, as the site lacks developed amenities like showers or electrical hookups.

Hole-in-the-Wall Campground is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the Mojave National Preserve’s vast landscapes, including hiking opportunities that take visitors through the preserve’s dramatic terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking to relax under the stars, this campground offers a quiet retreat in a stunning natural setting.

Things to Do

While the campground itself is relatively simple, the surrounding Mojave National Preserve offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Hole in the wall area map — Map of the Hole-in-the-Wall area.

The nearby Kelso Dunes offer a unique landscape for hiking and sandboarding, while the Preserve’s other trails provide a mix of difficulty levels for both beginners and experienced hikers. Visitors can also explore the nearby Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Loop, a trail that pass through rhyolite cliffs riddled with holes and hollows with metal rings fastened into the cliffs to assist hikers.

The preserve is also home to a variety of wildlife, including desert tortoises and bighorn sheep, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing and photography.

For more information on the area, it’s worth dropping by the Hole-in-the-Wall Visitors Center, located at 2 Black Canyon Road, Essex, CA 92332. Also, our guide to camping in Mojave National Preserve offers more options for campsites in the area.