Stoddard Valley OHV Area: Mojave Desert Off-Roading
Stoddard Valley OHV Recreation Area, located in the heart of Southern California’s Mojave Desert, is a haven for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. Spanning 53,000 acres, this vast and diverse landscape offers something for riders of all levels—from novice to expert.
Known for its challenging terrain, which includes steep rocky mountains, rolling hills, and winding sandy washes, Stoddard Valley is a prime destination for ATV/UTV riders, dirt bikers, and four-wheel drive vehicles. The open desert environment also allows for activities like hiking, rock scrambling, and wildlife watching, making it a versatile outdoor playground.
The area is home to the California 300 off-road race, during which time, the OHVA area is closed to the public.
Destination Details
| Season | Best in cooler months, October to April |
| Location | Mojave Desert, Southern California |
| General GPS Coordinates | 34.7226, -116.6753 |
| Size | 53,000 acres |
| Management | Bureau of Land Management (BLM) |
| Nearest Major City | San Bernardino, CA |
| Activities | OHV riding, hiking, rock scrambling, wildlife watching, rock hounding |
| Elevation | Ranges from 2,000 to 4,000 feet |
| Accessibility | Accessible year-round, but best in cooler months |
| Permits/Fees | OHV permits required, permits for racing events by reservation |
How to Get to Stoddard Valley OHV Recreation Area
The triangular-shaped riding area is formed by Interstate 15 and California Highway 247 (Barstow Road), immediately south of Barstow. Most visitors access the area to the east, off Interstate 15 at the Outlet Center Drive Exit (Sidewinder Road) or at the Hodge Road Exit, to the south on I-15.
From Barstow, take California Highway 247 (Barstow Road Exit from I-15) and go south 10 miles, turn either on Stoddard Wells Road or on to the access road behind the Slash-X Cafe. All entrances are dirt roads. The Bureau of Land Management offers a downloadable map of the area that can be helpful for navigating to the OHV area.
Destination Overview
Stoddard Valley OHV Recreation Area offers a quintessential Southern California desert experience with a focus on off-highway vehicle recreation. The terrain ranges from gentle, flat stretches perfect for beginners, to steep, rocky climbs that challenge even seasoned riders.
The Stoddard Mountains, located in the eastern portion of the area, are particularly known for their technical difficulty, making them a popular choice for more advanced riders and competition events. For those looking for a less intense experience, the central and southern parts of the valley offer smoother trails ideal for improving skills or just enjoying a more relaxed ride through the desert.
The terrain varies dramatically throughout the recreation area. The eastern sections, particularly the Stoddard Mountains, present rugged, technical challenges, perfect for experienced riders seeking a tough test of skill.
The central and southern portions of the valley offer smoother, more forgiving terrain, ideal for beginners or those honing their skills. The western parts near the Slash X entrance provide an intermediate-level challenge, making Stoddard Valley an ideal location for OHV clubs to host events and competitions.
Beyond OHV recreation, Stoddard Valley is rich in natural beauty and desert ecology. The area is home to unique plant species and serves as a habitat for wildlife, including the desert tortoise, a federally protected species. Visitors can also enjoy opportunities for rock hounding and bird watching in this stunning desert landscape.
Key Features & Terrain
- Stoddard Mountains: Known for steep, rocky terrain, ideal for expert riders and technical off-roading.
- Slash X Entrance: Offers access to intermediate terrain with a variety of trails.
- Central Valley: Features flat, easy-to-navigate expanses for beginners and casual riders.
- Sandy Washes & Rolling Hills: Scenic areas for recreational rides and exploration.
Other Activities
While OHV recreation is the primary draw of Stoddard Valley, the area is also a great destination for those seeking outdoor activities like hiking, rock scrambling, and wildlife watching. The Mojave Desert’s unique ecosystem means that plant and animal life is abundant, and visitors can explore the desert’s natural wonders through casual hikes or by taking part in rock hounding, where gems and minerals can be found.
Camping & Amenities
Camping is allowed within the recreation area, though it is limited to a 14-day stay. Visitors can camp in the open desert, as long as they do not block roads or trails.
Since there is no trash collection in the area, campers must pack out all their waste, including trash and other materials. It is important to note that the area contains deep mine shafts—visitors should exercise caution and stay clear of these hazards.
Know Before You Go
- Weather: The desert can be extremely hot during the summer, with temperatures often reaching 100-120°F. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, so visitors should be prepared for wide temperature fluctuations. Winds are common and can be strong, and humidity is generally low.
- Safety: Always wear a helmet when operating an ATV, motorcycle, or other OHV. Be mindful of other riders and vehicles, and yield to non-motorized users. Stay hydrated, and always carry plenty of water.
- Wildlife: The desert tortoise is a protected species in this area, and visitors should take care to avoid disturbing these vulnerable animals.
- Regulations: OHV users must have a valid California OHV registration and display the required green or red sticker. Out-of-state riders must obtain a non-resident green sticker if their vehicle is not registered in California.
For more information on regulations and specific details regarding permits, visit the California OHV website.
