BLM Coyote Lake Dispersed Area
Scattered camping sites around the perimeter of Coyote Lake, a seasonal playa that fills during wet years and becomes a white alkali flat during dry periods. Most sites on higher ground offer good drainage and accommodate rigs of any size. The area provides exceptional night skies due to minimal light pollution and high elevation. Popular with geology enthusiasts and photographers. Campfires permitted in established rings or metal containers.
Accessed via Coyote Lake Road from Highway 14, requiring high-clearance for the final few miles due to rocky sections and washouts. Spring and fall offer the best weather, while summer can be brutally hot. No facilities or water available. The lake itself may be full, muddy, or completely dry depending on recent rainfall patterns.
Seasonal lake camping in high Mojave country
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Elevation (ft) | 3100 ft |
| Nearest town | Mojave, California |
| Miles from pavement | 18.3 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Rocky |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 15 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | March-May, September-November |
| Land manager | BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
