Johnson Valley OHV: Southern California Off-Road Guide
Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area is a premier desert destination located in Southern California, known for its expansive terrain, rugged trails, and hosting the annual “King of the Hammers” event.
Covering 96,000 acres, the area is punctuated by steep red mountains, vast valleys, sandy washes, and dry lake beds, providing varied landscapes for off-road enthusiasts.
Johnson Valley offers riding opportunities for all skill levels, with areas suited to novice riders as well as expert-only trails for rock crawlers. The area is also popular for camping, with both primitive and dispersed sites available.
Destination Details
| Season | Oct-May (extreme heat in summer) |
| Location | Johnson Valley, California |
| General GPS Coordinates | 34.51764167, -116.7532 |
| Management | Bureau of Land Management (BLM) |
| Size | 96,000 acres |
| State | California |
| Nearest Major City | Barstow, CA |
Getting Oriented
Johnson Valley OHV Area is located in California’s Mojave Desert, flanked by the San Bernardino Mountains to the west. The desert is known for its harsh, arid climate, with temperatures exceeding 100°F in summer and dropping below freezing in winter.
The area’s elevation ranges from 2,300 feet at Melville Dry Lake to 4,600 feet in Hartwell Hills, creating a mix of open valleys, rolling hills, and rugged mountains. With its unique desert flora, including creosote scrub and Joshua trees, Johnson Valley is a distinctive and popular playground for off-roaders and campers alike.
Getting to Johnson Valley OHV Area
To reach Johnson Valley, head southeast from Barstow, California. From Highway 247, turn onto Camp Rock Road and drive north.
This is the main access route and is suitable for most vehicles. For those coming from Los Angeles, take Interstate 15 north toward Barstow, then follow Highway 247 southeast until you reach Camp Rock Road.
For staging at Anderson Dry Lake, continue north on Camp Rock Road for approximately 10 miles, where you’ll find a large open area frequently used for competitive events.
Where to Camp
Johnson Valley offers primitive campgrounds scattered throughout the area, providing basic amenities and a true desert experience. Anderson Dry Lake is one of the popular camping spots, as it has open space suitable for large groups and event staging.
Dispersed camping is allowed throughout Johnson Valley, allowing campers to set up near trails or find more secluded spots. No amenities are available, so visitors should come prepared with water, food, and supplies. To protect the environment, follow BLM regulations, such as staying within 50 feet of existing trails.
Things to Do
- Off-Roading: Johnson Valley is renowned for its extensive off-road trails that cater to all experience levels. For beginner and intermediate riders, the Anderson Dry Lake area offers rolling hills and rocky terrain suitable for recreational riding. Advanced off-roaders can explore “The Hammers,” a section in the southeast known worldwide for its challenging rock-crawling trails. Only expert drivers should attempt The Hammers, as it requires technical skill and specialized equipment.
- King of the Hammers: Each year, Johnson Valley hosts King of the Hammers, one of the world’s most challenging off-road racing events. The event attracts thousands of spectators and competitors and features extreme rock-crawling and high-speed desert racing. During this time, the area becomes a bustling hub for off-road enthusiasts.
- Other Activities: While primarily known for off-roading, Johnson Valley also has areas suitable for hiking and wildlife viewing. The unique desert ecosystem supports native species like the desert tortoise, jackrabbits, and coyotes, making it a great spot for nature observation.
Know Before You Go
- Weather The desert climate is harsh, with summer temperatures often reaching 120°F. Winters can be cold, especially at night, so plan and pack accordingly.
- OHV Regulations All OHVs must be registered in California, and vehicles need a visible green sticker or license plate. Riders must wear helmets, maintain a speed of 15 MPH near campsites, and display flags on vehicles for visibility.
- Shared-Use with Military Approximately 53,000 acres of Johnson Valley is shared with the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms. Follow all posted signs and avoid restricted areas. The area is occasionally closed due to military usage.
