Mojave National Preserve’s magnificent Kelso Dunes are the most popular hiking destination in the region. The unbelievable dune field covers 45 square miles with peaks soaring up to 650 feet tall, making it the largest such field in the Mojave Desert.
The area is famous for its “singing” or “booming” sand, a phenomenon where sliding sand creates a low, resonant rumbling noise. According to the NPS, only seven known sand dune fields in North America produce this effect.
While only simple, rural camping is allowed at undeveloped, first-come, first-served campsites, the experience is so surreal that Outside Magazine named the Kelso Dunes as one of the best campsites in California.
Camping at Kelso Dunes
It takes nearly 4 hours to reach the Kelso Dunes from L.A. by car. A bumpy drive takes you to the Dunes trailhead, beyond which you’ll find a collection of undeveloped, free campsites.
Most of the campsites at Kelso Dunes have a simple rock or metal fire ring, although Outside Magazine recommends bringing your own metal container just in case. The NPS requests that campers only reuse existing sites so as not to further disturb the natural desert ecosystems.
Most of the undeveloped campsites are located along or near Kelbaker Road, Cima Road, Morning Star Mine Road, Black Canyon Road, and Ivanpah and Cedar Canyon Roads. You can visit the NPS website for a full list with directions.
There is no camping allowed at the trailhead, and campers are expected to follow NPS guidelines and pack out all trash. There is no water available and NPS does not recommend hiking in the summer, as temps can soar to 120° F.
You can read our article to learn more about the geology and ecology of the Kelso Dunes.
