Mojave National Preserve
Hart Mine Road Closed.
Kelso Depot Visitor Center is closed for rehabilitation of the heating and cooling system. We expect to reopen the depot in 2026. The restrooms beside the depot are open.
Do not pick up hitchhikers. Please report their locations to law enforcement by calling 911.
Fire restrictions are in place at Mojave National Preserve and Castle Mountains National Monument. Wood and charcoal fires are not permitted. Most camp stoves are. See fire restriction order for additional details. Details
Visitor Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi calling is now available in the Kelso Depot parking lot for calls including emergencies. Go to the bulletin board at the Kelso Depot restrooms for instructions.
In the event there are train siding operations at the crossing near Kelso Depot, delays may be up to one hour. Please plan accordingly for this possibility with extra fuel and drinking water. Union Pacific Contact: 1 800 848-8715
Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.
Mojave National Preserve is a vast area in California that encompasses parts of three major North American deserts. It features diverse landscapes, including old mountain ranges, sand dunes, and volcanic formations. Many travelers come to explore its unique geology and rich ecology, which includes ancient rocks dating back 2.5 billion years.
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Visitors can hike trails like the Cima Dome and Hole-in-the-Wall Nature Trail, or enjoy mountain biking and four-wheel driving. However, the preserve lacks commercial lodging and dining options, so planning ahead is essential for a comfortable visit.
In pictures
Things to do
Practical
At a glance
- Opened
- 1994
- Open
- Daily open 24 hours
- Accessibility
- Limited accessibility, some trails are steep
- Opening hours
- Daily open 24 hours
- Phone
- (760) 252-6100
- Price
- Free
- Website
- www.nps.gov
Things to know
Photo: NPS