Red Rock Canyon State Park Adventure Guide
Red Rock Canyon State Park, located in the Mojave Desert where the Sierra Nevada meets the El Paso Range, is a stunning display of desert cliffs, buttes, and vivid rock formations.
Known for its geological diversity and striking colors, the park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, photography, and off-road exploration.
With a rich history tied to Indigenous peoples, pioneers, and Hollywood films, this 27,000-acre state park is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Destination Details
| Location | Kern County, California |
| Season | Year-round; best in cooler months (October–April) |
| GPS Coordinates | 35.3700° N, 117.9851° W |
| Management | California State Parks |
| Size | Approximately 27,000 acres |
| Nearest major city | Los Angeles (120 miles south) |
| Visitor’s Center Phone | (442) 247-5160 |
Getting There
Red Rock Canyon State Park is easily accessible via State Highway 14. From Los Angeles, take Interstate 5 north, connect to Highway 14, and follow it for approximately 120 miles to reach the park near the town of Cantil. The main entrance is well-marked, and Abbott Drive leads to the visitor center, campground, and trailheads.
Visitors from the north can take U.S. Route 395 and connect to Highway 14 for a scenic drive through the Mojave Desert.
The visitors center is open Friday – Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Destination Overview
Red Rock Canyon State Park is famed for its dramatic landscape of red and white sandstone cliffs accented by layers of pink volcanic rocks and brown lava flows. The area’s geological history dates back three million years, and its striking formations have served as landmarks for Indigenous trade routes, pioneer journeys, and the iconic 20-mule team wagons of the 19th century.
Petroglyphs left by the Kawaiisu people and remnants of 1890s mining operations offer glimpses into its historical significance. The park offers a range of activities.
Hiking
Miles of trails meander through the park’s colorful terrain, offering options for all skill levels. Notable routes include the Hagen Canyon Trail and the Red Cliffs Trail, which showcase the park’s vibrant rock formations.
Camping
Ricardo Campground, set against the dramatic cliffs, provides 50 primitive campsites with fire rings and tables. This first-come, first-served campground is a perfect base for exploring the park (see below for more info).
Equestrian Activities
Horseback riders can explore the park’s primitive roads and trails, though equestrian camping is not allowed.
Off-Road Exploration
Within the park, licensed off-highway vehicles can traverse designated dirt roads, offering a unique way to explore the stunning desert scenery.
Be mindful of closed routes and avoid creating new trails to protect the delicate environment. These trails connect to those on nearby BLM land as well.
While note in the park, nearby Jawbone Canyon OHV Area and Dove Springs OHV Area offer extensive trail systems for enthusiasts looking to explore rugged terrain.
Photography and Stargazing
With vibrant rock formations and some of the darkest skies in Southern California, the park is a haven for photographers and stargazers. Bring a telescope or binoculars to enjoy the Milky Way on clear nights.
Flora and Fauna
The park is home to desert-adapted plants such as creosote bushes, cacti, and wildflowers that bloom spectacularly after wet winters. Wildlife includes roadrunners, hawks, coyotes, bobcats, and lizards, offering a rich desert ecosystem for visitors to observe.
Nearby Camping
The park’s Ricardo Campground provides essential amenities for campers, including potable water and pit toilets. Campsites are $25 per night and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. While there are no RV hookups, the campground accommodates vehicles up to 30 feet in length.
For those seeking alternative camping, developed campgrounds are available in nearby areas of the Mojave Desert managed by the BLM.
Points of Interest
Red Cliffs
Red Cliffs is the park’s iconic feature; these towering, layered sandstone cliffs are rich in color and history and are often used as backdrops in movies and TV shows.
Burro Schmidt Tunnel
Burro Schmidt Tunnel hand-dug by a miner named William “Burro” Schmidt over 38 years, the 2,500-foot-long shaft drills through a granite mountain in the El Paso Mountains just outside of the state park.
Safety Tips
- Bring plenty of water and wear layered clothing to adapt to desert temperature fluctuations.
- Use sunscreen and hats to protect against sun exposure.
- Cell service may be unreliable, so download maps in advance and inform someone of your itinerary.
- Avoid venturing into closed areas like Nightmare Gulch, which may be seasonally restricted for wildlife protection.
