Stateline Wilderness: A Mojave Desert Gem
The Stateline Wilderness, located on the California-Nevada border near Primm, Nevada, offers a pristine and rugged slice of the Mojave Desert.
This wilderness area, which spans 6,963 acres, includes the eastern terminus of the 15-mile-long Clark Mountain Range, known for its steep limestone and dolomite peaks.
Visitors can explore diverse desert flora, including Mojave yucca, Joshua trees, and pinyon-juniper forests at higher elevations, and encounter typical Mojave wildlife such as coyotes, black-tailed jackrabbits, quail, and rattlesnakes.
With its remote location and untouched terrain, the Stateline Wilderness is an ideal destination for hiking, wildlife observation, and photography.
Destination Details
| Season | October-May (Summer is extremely hot) |
| Location | Near Primm, California/Nevada border |
| General GPS Coordinates | 35.637233, -115.479959 |
| Management | Bureau of Land Management (BLM) |
| Size | 6,963 acres |
| State | California |
| Nearest Major City | Las Vegas, NV (approx. 45 miles) |
| Contact | Phone: 760-326-7000; Email: BLM_CA_Web_NE@blm.gov |
Getting to the Stateline Wilderness
From Needles, CA, take I-40 west for approximately 10 miles to the U.S. Highway 95 north exit. Follow U.S. Highway 95 north for about 45 miles to NV State Route 164 (Searchlight, NV). Turn left onto SR 164 and drive approximately 20 miles to the California/Nevada state line. The road transitions into Nipton Road; continue for about 15 miles to I-15.
Take I-15 north for 10 miles to Primm, NV. Exit I-15 and turn left into Whiskey Pete’s Casino. Drive to the back of the casino parking lot and exit through the semi-truck parking area onto BLM Route NN402 (Stateline Pass). Follow this route for about 3 miles until you reach a wilderness kiosk marking the entrance to the Stateline Wilderness.
Destination Overview
The Stateline Wilderness provides an authentic Mojave Desert experience with steep, rugged mountains and diverse desert ecosystems.
The Clark Mountain Range’s limestone and dolomite formations dominate the landscape, dramatically contrasting the surrounding bajadas and valleys. Vegetation ranges from creosote and bursage at lower elevations to Mojave yucca, Joshua trees, and pinyon-juniper forests higher up.
Wildlife enthusiasts can spot various desert creatures, from coyotes and jackrabbits to quail and lizards. Birdwatchers may encounter roadrunners darting through the brush, while reptile enthusiasts can look out for rattlesnakes and other lizards.
While the Stateline Wilderness lacks permanent water sources, its remoteness and diverse topography offer excellent opportunities for hiking and solitude. Be prepared for rugged conditions and carry ample water, as the area’s dry environment and challenging terrain require self-sufficiency.
This wilderness area is perfect for those seeking a quieter alternative to more popular desert destinations. With its striking landscapes and rich biodiversity, the Stateline Wilderness invites visitors to experience the untouched beauty of the Mojave Desert.
