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moderate10-20 min from Ridgecrest
Millions of Acres of Desert Riding
BLM Off-Highway Vehicle Areas
Off-Road / OHVCamping
Available LandMillions of acres
Terrain TypesSand, rock, wash, lake bed
Best MonthsOctober through April
Land ManagerBureau of Land Management
Overview
Ridgecrest is an off-highway vehicle paradise, surrounded by millions of acres of Bureau of Land Management land open to motorized recreation. The terrain spans everything from sandy washes and dry lake beds to rocky canyons and mountain passes, creating an extraordinary variety of riding conditions within a short drive from town. Whether you ride dirt bikes, ATVs, side-by-sides, or 4WD trucks, the Indian Wells Valley offers terrain to match every skill level and riding style.
The desert landscape provides a unique riding experience that combines open-throttle runs across dry lake beds with technical rock crawling through narrow canyons. Popular areas include the Spangler Hills OHV Area north of town, Randsburg Wash, and numerous unnamed washes and trails that crisscross the public lands. The BLM manages the area with a combination of designated routes and open riding areas, ensuring both access for enthusiasts and protection for sensitive desert habitats.
The OHV community in Ridgecrest is active and welcoming. Local shops service and sell off-road vehicles, and organized group rides happen regularly. Dispersed camping is allowed on most BLM land, making multi-day riding trips easy to plan. The cooler months from October through April offer the most comfortable riding temperatures, though hardy riders enjoy the early morning and evening hours even in summer.
Things to Do
Spangler Hills Riding
The Spangler Hills OHV Area north of Ridgecrest offers diverse terrain including sandy washes, rocky hills, and old mining roads. Suitable for all skill levels.
Dry Lake Bed Runs
The flat, hard-packed dry lake beds offer a unique riding experience where you can safely reach higher speeds with open visibility in all directions.
Canyon Exploration
Thread through narrow desert washes and canyons on technical trails that reward patience and skill with beautiful, remote desert scenery.
Desert Camping & Riding Weekend
Set up a basecamp on BLM land and ride in a different direction each day. Bring your own water and supplies for a true desert experience.
Highlights
Millions of acres of BLM land open to OHV useDry lake bed riding for high-speed runsDesert wash exploration and canyon ridingRock crawling terrain for 4WD vehiclesDispersed camping allowed on BLM landActive local OHV community with organized ridesYear-round access (best October through April)
Getting There
Drive Time
10-20 min from Ridgecrest
Directions
Multiple access points surround the city. Spangler Hills is accessible north of town. Randsburg Wash and other areas are accessible off US-395 and various dirt roads.
Details
Best Season
October through April (avoid extreme summer heat)
Fee
Free (California OHV registration required for state lands)
Difficulty
moderate
Dog Friendly
Yes
Tips & Safety
- Always carry extra water, fuel, and a basic tool kit
- Tell someone your riding plan and expected return time
- Cell service is unreliable in most riding areas — carry a satellite communicator if possible
- Stay on designated routes in restricted areas — check BLM signage
- Watch for abandoned mine shafts — they are scattered throughout the desert and can be deadly
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