BLM Jawbone Canyon Dispersed Area
Jawbone Canyon cuts a dramatic slash through the Mojave Desert northeast of Mojave, offering dispersed camping among towering Joshua trees and house-sized granite formations. Multiple pullouts and washes provide space for 20+ rigs, though sites fill quickly on weekends with OHV enthusiasts and rock hounds. Fire restrictions apply May through October, and the area sees heavy ATV traffic during cooler months.
Access via Jawbone Canyon Road (paved) then various dirt spurs — most suitable for high-clearance vehicles though some sites accessible to any rig. Wind can be fierce through the canyon, and summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F. Popular staging area for exploring the Dove Springs OHV area to the north.
Desert canyon camping among Joshua trees and granite
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Mojave, CA |
| Miles from pavement | 8.5 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Dirt |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 25 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 |
| Amenities | Fire ring |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |