California
Johnson Valley OH-V Open Area
Dispersed Camping
This sprawling 188,000-acre desert playground draws everyone from weekend warriors to King of Hammers racers preparing for the big event each February. Scattered campsites dot the valley floor and surrounding hills, with popular clusters near Soggy Dry Lake and along Boone Road. No facilities whatsoever — pack everything in, pack everything out. The terrain varies from flat hardpan perfect for big rigs to technical rock gardens that’ll test any machine.
Gets absolutely mobbed during race week and holiday weekends, but plenty of space to spread out during quieter periods. Fire restrictions typically in effect May through October. Cell service varies wildly across the valley.
Desert playground for serious off-roaders
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Yucca Valley, CA |
| Miles from pavement | 15.2 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Dirt |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 200 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | September-May |
| Land manager | BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |