BLM Land managed by the Ridgecrest Field Office encompasses this free dispersed camping area on a dry lake bed near Fossil Falls Campground, where the geology shifts visibly from volcanic basalt flows to cracked, pale lake bed clay within a short walk. The terrain is flat and wide open, with sightlines toward the surrounding hillsides that change color as the light moves through the day. Wind is a consistent factor here. Multiple reviewers describe gusts exceeding 40 to 50 mph, particularly overnight, so securing gear before dark is less optional than it sounds.
The dry lake bed surface makes the area well-suited to dogs, kids, and anyone wanting open space to move around, whether on foot, bike, or dirt scooter. The nearby Fossil Falls formation, a basalt waterfall channel carved during the last ice age and now dry, adds geological context worth exploring on foot. Obsidian flakes have reportedly been spotted in the area. Pinkie K. notes the site is "perfect for bike or dirt scooter riding or just running around on the lake bed," and adds that "Verizon cell service was great and stars were bright," which aligns with what several other visitors report about connectivity.
Access from US-395 is short. The dirt road is maintained but slightly uneven in spots, and rigs up to 50 feet have navigated it without issue. Dust accumulates on vehicles, especially in wind. The area is dispersed, so campers choose their own flat spot on the lake bed rather than pulling into designated sites.
Amenities are minimal. Toilets are present on-site, and picnic tables and fire rings are available at the adjacent Fossil Falls Campground area, though that facility has had periods of closure. No potable water with a hose connection is available; any water station on-site is for container filling only. Campers should pack in everything they need. For those wanting hookups or more developed infrastructure, camping near BLM Land — Ridgecrest Field Office includes a range of options across the broader region. The Coso Junction Safety Roadside Rest Area — US-395 provides a no-cost alternative a few miles up the highway for campers who prefer a more structured overnight stop.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsFossil Falls dry lake bed is located in California near Little Lake
Coordinates
35.98389104 N
117.90814728 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 8/6/26
VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 15 usersLast on 8/6/26- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 8/6/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 8/6/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 15 usersLast on 8/6/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 8/6/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Fossil Falls dry lake bed needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 49 min from Bakersfield, CA
- 2 hrs 51 min from Visalia, CA
- 2 hrs 59 min from Hanford, CA
- 3 hrs 21 min from Fresno, CA
