Rasor OHV Recreation Area Guide
Rasor Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area is a hidden gem for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. It is located approximately 12 miles southwest of Baker, California, along Interstate 15. This area features rolling hills, open valleys, and captivating sand dunes, making it ideal for adventurous riders.
Elevations range from 2,427 feet to 1,275 feet at the Mojave River, providing varied landscapes to explore. The area also offers access to the historic Mojave Road, which leads into the Mojave National Preserve and allows street-legal vehicle access. With its natural beauty and thrilling terrain, Rasor is perfect for off-roading, camping, and enjoying the unique desert ecosystem.
Destination Details
| Season | Best from May-October (extremely hot in summer) |
| Location | Rasor Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area |
| General GPS Coordinates | 35.069981, -116.277991 |
| Management | Bureau of Land Management |
| Size | Approximately 35,000 acres |
| State | California |
| Nearest Major City | Baker |
| BLM Info Number | 760-252-6000 |
| BLM Info Email | BLM_CA_Web_BA@blm.gov |
Getting Oriented
Rasor OHV Recreation Area is set in the Mojave Desert, characterized by its high desert landscape and unique ecosystems. The area experiences typical desert weather, with hot summers and mild winters, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities year-round.
The vegetation includes creosote scrub and various annual grasses, offering glimpses of wildflowers during spring. This relatively remote area provides a peaceful alternative to more crowded recreational spots, attracting adventurers seeking solitude and adventure in nature.
Getting to Rasor OHV Recreation Area
To reach Rasor OHV Recreation Area from Baker, California, head south on Interstate 15 for approximately 12 miles. Take the exit for Rasor Road, and follow the signs directing you to the OHV area.
The nearest town is Baker, which provides a convenient fuel and supply stop before venturing into the recreation area. Visitors from the Los Angeles area can take I-15 North, and those from Las Vegas can head southwest on I-15. Barstow, to the south, is also nearby.
Where to Camp
Camping at Rasor OHV Recreation Area is primarily dispersed, allowing visitors to set up camp throughout the open area. However, camping is limited to a maximum of 14 consecutive days.
For those seeking a more structured camping experience, the Afton Canyon Campground offers several developed sites, available on a first-come, first-served basis for a fee of $6 per night.
Each site features a shade structure, parking area, table, fire pit, and grill, with centrally located vault toilets available for convenience. It’s important to note that campfire permits are required, especially during fire season (typically May through October).
Things to Do
Rasor OHV Recreation Area offers an extensive network of off-road trails invites riders to explore the rugged beauty of the desert landscape. Visitors can enjoy open desert riding on ATVs, motorcycles, dune buggies, and UTVs. The area’s varied terrain provides opportunities for both novice and experienced riders, with trails ranging from easy to challenging.
In addition to off-roading, Rasor is a gateway to the Mojave Trails National Monument. Here, OHV users can access designated routes that lead into this protected area, which features dramatic vistas and diverse ecosystems. The historic Mojave Road, accessible by off-road capable street-legal vehicles, offers a unique glimpse into the region’s history and connects riders to the Mojave National Preserve.
For those interested in camping, Rasor provides an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also partake in recreational shooting in designated areas, following all regulations the Bureau of Land Management sets forth.
