Desert hikers planning to tackle the Kelso Dunes will find this dispersed camping area positioned at the trailhead for the towering sand formations. The campground sits at the end of Kelso Dunes Road, about three miles from the main entrance on what cal K. describes as a "bumpy dirt road." Multiple reviewers confirm the route remains passable for most vehicles, with sedans, Airstreams, and fifth wheels making the journey successfully.
Campers discover roughly 10-12 designated sites spread beyond the day-use parking area, each equipped with stone fire rings. The layout provides considerable space between sites, with some positioned far enough apart that neighboring campers remain out of sight. Matthew found "complete privacy" when continuing past the main parking lot toward the power lines. Vault toilets serve the area, though several reviewers note the absence of water, trash collection, or dump facilities.
The dunes themselves rise 600 feet above the camping area, creating what multiple visitors describe as a challenging but rewarding climb. The hike typically takes 40 minutes to 90 minutes depending on fitness level, with deep sand making the ascent demanding. Families often bring sleds for the descent, turning the tallest dune into what one reviewer calls "the world's tallest sand slide."
Road conditions vary seasonally, with recent flooding creating washouts that remain passable but rough. Most reviewers report complete absence of cell service throughout the area, with AT&T users occasionally catching one bar at the dune summits. The campground accommodates RVs up to 25 feet, though the bumpy access road can stress equipment. For those wanting more developed amenities, Kelso Dunes Road offers an alternative camping option nearby.
Description
Camping in undeveloped campsites is allowed in previously used or disturbed sites outside of the "day-use-only" areas. In most cases these sites include a rock or metal fire ring; not all sites contain a fire ring. All fires must be in a fire ring or fire pan; new fire rings cannot be constructed. Camping tramples vegetation and disturbs soils. By reusing existing sites, you help protect the desert from further damage. Practice Leave No Trace principles, including burrying human waste at least six inches deep.
Careful planning and knowledge of camping guidelines and regulations will help ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for you, future visitors, and the fragile desert environment.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsKelso Dunes Dispersed is located in California near Mojave National Preserve
Coordinates
34.887746 N
115.716485 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 3/18/26- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/1/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 3/18/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/1/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
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 Kelso Dunes Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 1 min from Las Vegas, NV
- 2 hrs 13 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ
- 4 hrs from El Centro, CA
- 4 hrs 12 min from San Diego, CA
