Some dismiss the desert as a wasteland—a waste of space where nothing and nobody can exist for long. Mojave National Preserve in southeastern California is not exempt from this perception. Its inclusion in the park system back in 1994 was strenuously opposed by groups convinced the area's empty tracts were better suited to 4-wheeling and mining than being set aside for quiet recreation. Read More »
Mojave National Preserve Highlights
- Hole-in-the-Wall Campground is the most popular camp in Mojave National Preserve, which means that you might share it with a few others. Located adjacent to the popular "rings climb" and close to the Hole-in-the-Wall visitor center, the 37-site camp serves as a great base for exploring Mojave.
- Mid Hills Campground, the second of two developed camps in the preserve, was burned in a wildfire in 2005. The juniper and pinyon pine trees that once shaded the sites are slowly recovering. Reaching the camp requires an eight-mile drive on a dirt road, so if you want to camp alone, this is your spot.
- Nearby Providence Mountains State Recreation Area has a small six-site campground, complete with flush toilets. The sites are very exposed and can be subjected to strong winds, but the desert view is amazing. This is a great place to camp if you've come to see the geological wonders of Mitchell Caverns.
- Just outside the border of the preserve, Afton Canyon Campground is located at one of the few places where the Mojave River flows above ground. A popular overnight spot for four-wheelers driving the Mojave Road, the camp is also well-situated for hikers and photographers who wish to explore the area's colorful canyons, washes, and cliffs.
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Mojave National Preserve Travel Q&A
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What's your favorite hike? Where's the best campsite? Join the conversation! Ask Your Question
What You Can Do in Mojave National Preserve
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Parks Near Mojave National Preserve
- Turtle Mountain Wilderness Area, CA (68 mi.)
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, NV (71 mi.)
- Willow Beach National Fish Hatchery, NV (71 mi.)
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