BLM Trona Pinnacles Dispersed Area
The Trona Pinnacles are a collection of over 500 tufa towers, some reaching 140 feet high, formed by hot springs under an ancient lake. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the area with scattered sites among the spires offering complete solitude and stunning sunrise/sunset photography. Fire restrictions apply year-round due to the desert environment, and sites fill up during cooler months when photographers and stargazers descend on the area.
Access is via a 5-mile dirt road from Highway 178 that’s passable by any vehicle in dry conditions but can become impassable when wet. No facilities exist — pack out all trash and bring plenty of water. The area has been featured in countless sci-fi films and music videos, giving it an almost alien landscape feel that’s unforgettable after dark.
Alien landscape camping among 500+ limestone spires.
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Trona, California |
| Miles from pavement | 5 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Dirt |
| Cell service | None |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 20 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | October-April |
| Land manager | BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |