Olancha Dunes – Owens Valley
Olancha Dunes, located just east of the small town of Olancha, offers off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts a unique opportunity to explore desert sand dunes. Framed by the towering Sierra Nevada to the west and the Coso Range to the east, this area provides approximately 400 acres of rolling dunes that are perfect for off-roading adventures.
The dunes rise to a height of about 75 feet, offering a variety of terrain for motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, and four-wheel-drive vehicles. Whether you’re seeking thrills in the sand or simply looking to camp under the desert sky, Olancha Dunes is a hidden gem for outdoor recreation.
Destination Details
| Season | Year-round (best in cooler months) |
| Location | Bureau of Land Management Land, Eastern Sierra |
| GPS Coordinates | 36.291291, -117.97627251 |
| Management | Bureau of Land Management (BLM) |
| Size | 400 acres |
| Nearest Major City | Ridgecrest, CA (50 miles south) |
How to Get to Olancha Dunes
To reach Olancha Dunes from Ridgecrest, drive north on Highway 395 for about 50 miles. Turn east on the signed dirt road leading to the dunes.
Note that the first portion of the road may be difficult to navigate for vehicles without four-wheel drive. If you don’t have a 4WD vehicle, it’s best to park where the road is firm and walk about 0.75 miles to the dunes. Visitors with high-clearance vehicles can drive right to the dunes and camp in one of the designated primitive camping areas.
Destination Overview
Though not as expansive as other dune areas in California, the location offers a less crowded experience for those looking to go off-road. The surrounding landscapes, including the Owens Valley’s colorful sunrises and sunsets, make this destination particularly scenic.
Camping is available in the surrounding areas, and OHV staging areas allow easy access to the dunes. The lack of amenities at the dunes adds to the feeling of seclusion. Visitors should plan accordingly by bringing water, food, and other supplies from nearby towns such as Lone Pine (25 miles north) or Ridgecrest (50 miles south).
The surrounding landscapes provide excellent opportunities for photography, with the colorful sunrises and sunsets over Owens Valley creating a picturesque backdrop to the dunes.
Recreational Opportunities
- Off-Roading: Olancha Dunes is a prime location for OHV recreation, including motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, and four-wheel-drive vehicles.
- Camping: Primitive camping is available near the dunes, with a few designated camping and staging areas.
- Wildlife Observation: The dunes are home to a variety of desert wildlife, and birdwatching is popular in the area.
- Photography: Capture the striking landscapes, including the dunes framed by the Sierra Nevada peaks and the colorful skies of Owens Valley.
Safety Notes
- The area is remote, with no services or amenities at the dunes, so visitors should come prepared with sufficient water, food, and camping gear.
- The soft sand can be tricky for vehicles without four-wheel drive; exercise caution when driving in the dunes.
- Watch for wildlife, including desert animals and birds, and always follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment.
