Truckhaven Hills OHV Area
Desert training ground where tanks learned to fight
The Truckhaven Hills sprawl across 25,000 acres of moonscape badlands east of Borrego Springs, where General Patton once trained tank crews for World War II. The desert here fractures into countless washes, ridges, and slot canyons that form a natural playground for everything from stock pickups to full-blown trophy trucks. Shell Reef Road serves as the main artery, but the real adventure lies in the unmarked network branching through formations like Pumpkin Patch and Calcite Mine.
Moderate to difficult depending on route choice, suitable for stock high-clearance vehicles on main routes with expert lines requiring serious armor. Best tackled October through April when desert heat won’t cook you alive. No permits needed, but bring GPS waypoints since getting lost in this labyrinth is easier than finding your way out. You’ll discover why this place shaped desert racing culture — endless miles of challenging terrain where mechanical sympathy matters more than horsepower.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Mixed, Sand |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 35 mi / 56.3 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2400 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Borrego Springs, CA |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4WD SUV handle Truckhaven Hills?
Yes, a stock high-clearance 4WD like a 4Runner or Jeep Grand Cherokee can navigate most routes. The sand and loose surfaces are more challenging than the rocks, so airing down tires is essential.
Is Truckhaven Hills accessible in summer?
Technically yes, but temperatures regularly exceed 110°F from May through September making it dangerous. Stick to October through April when temps are comfortable for camping and recovery work.
Do I need permits or pay fees for Truckhaven Hills?
No permits or fees required - it's BLM land open for dispersed camping and OHV use. Follow Leave No Trace principles and stay on established trails to keep it that way.
What's the gnarliest part of the trail system?
The deeply rutted tank tracks and steep-sided washes that can swallow a vehicle if you pick the wrong line. The loose sand makes momentum crucial but easy to overdrive your sight lines.
Can I count on cell service for navigation?
Cell service is spotty throughout the area, so download offline maps before heading out. GPS units work fine, but don't rely on your phone for emergency communication.