Jawbone Canyon OHV Area

The Jawbone Canyon Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area, located in the heart of California’s Mojave Desert, offers a diverse playground for off-road enthusiasts.

Spanning over 7,000 acres of open-use public land, it features cross-country play areas, trail riding opportunities, and challenging technical hill climbs. This area is a gateway to hundreds of miles of trails beyond the designated OHV zone, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor adventurers.

With its mix of sand washes, steep climbs, and trails suited for all experience levels, Jawbone Canyon is a top destination for OHV riders, campers, and nature lovers. Primitive camping is free and plentiful, and the area’s expansive terrain provides ample space for exploration.

Destination Details

Season	Year-round, best in cooler months (October to April)
Location	Jawbone Canyon, Mojave Desert
General GPS	35.31257, -118.03541
Management	Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Size	Approximately 7,000 acres
Nearest Cities	Mojave (20 miles south)
Info Number	760-373-1146

Getting to Jawbone Canyon

Jawbone Canyon is located off State Highway 14, approximately 20 miles north of Mojave.

From Los Angeles\, the journey takes about two hours. Head north on US-101 and merge onto CA-170 N/Hollywood Freeway toward Sacramento. Continue onto I-5 N, then transition to CA-14 N. Follow CA-14 N/Midland Trail until you reach Jawbone Canyon Road in Cantil, where you’ll turn left to enter the area.

For those traveling from Arizona, the drive is approximately seven hours. Take I-10 W to CA-138 W, exiting at I-15 N to connect with CA-14 N. Continue on CA-14 N/Midland Trail to Jawbone Canyon Road, turning left if coming from the south or right if approaching from the north. The area is well-marked, making it easy to locate.

The Jawbone Canyon OHV Area is located approximately 20 miles north of Mojave. Look for the left-hand turn onto Jawbone Canyon Rd. from CA-14 N when coming from the south.

Destination Overview

The Jawbone Canyon OHV Area is a premier destination for off-road vehicle enthusiasts. Within the open-use area, you’ll find terrain to suit all levels, from novice riders navigating sandy trails to experienced adventurers tackling steep hill climbs.

The area is also a gateway for exploring hundreds of miles of surrounding trails, including those of Red Rock Canyon State Park and Dove Springs OHVA, offering endless opportunities for adventure.

Beyond the OHV area lies the Jawbone-Butterbredt Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC), where trails are limited to designated routes to protect the fragile desert ecosystem.

Activities

Trail Riding: The open area offers miles of trails with varying difficulty levels. Beyond the OHV zone, explore the designated routes of the ACEC for a more controlled off-roading experience.

Hill Climbing: Test your skills on steep technical climbs within the OHV open area.

Camping: Primitive camping is available throughout Jawbone Canyon. Sites are accessible to 2WD vehicles and trailers, but offer no hookups, water, or shade.

Camping Information

Camping in Jawbone Canyon is free and available for up to 14 days. While no developed facilities exist, the area offers plenty of space for staging and off-loading OHVs. Bring all necessary supplies, including water, as the canyon has no nearby sources.

For water, the closest refill stations are the Flying J in Bakersfield or Red Rock Canyon State Park, which charges $10 for water and dumping.

Safety Tips

Prepare for Weather: The desert climate can be extreme, with hot summers and cold nights in winter. Ensure you’re equipped with enough water, food, and appropriate gear for changing temperatures.

Navigation: While the area is accessible, make sure to stick to designated trails, especially if venturing beyond the OHV area. Off-trail riding is restricted within the ACEC.

Cell Service: Reception can be limited in the area, so it’s advisable to bring a map, let someone know your plans, and travel with a group for safety.

Nearby Services

Nearest Hospital: Ridgecrest Regional Hospital, 760-446-3551
Food and Fuel: Available in the town of Mojave, approximately 30 miles south
BLM Rangers: Regularly patrol the area for visitor assistance and safety