Johnson Valley Open Area
High-speed desert freedom
Johnson Valley spans 188,000 acres of wide-open Mojave Desert where the military trains with tanks and civilians come to play hard. The terrain varies from smooth hardpack perfect for high-speed runs to technical washes and rocky climbs that’ll challenge any rig. Means Dry Lake offers a massive playa for speed runs, while the surrounding hills provide endless technical challenges and stunning views of the high desert.
Stock trucks can handle most of the area, but bringing recovery gear is smart in this remote location. The best season runs October through April — summer heat is brutal and dangerous. No permits required for the main OHV area, but check military training schedules as parts close during exercises. Nearest fuel and supplies are in Yucca Valley, 30 miles away. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent, so bring satellite communication. This is where desert rats come to run free and fast.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 50 mi / 80.5 km |
| Duration | 1-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3200 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance vehicle |
| Nearest town | Yucca Valley, California |
| 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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