Mojave National Preserve spans 1.6 million acres of desert terrain between Las Vegas and Los Angeles, with elevations ranging from 880 to 7,929 feet. Dispersed camping options near the preserve provide access to extensive backcountry trails, with sites positioned strategically for equestrian access. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night while summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 100°F.
What to do
Trail riding from base camp: Black Canyon provides strategic positioning for horseback riders. The area connects to multiple desert trails with varying difficulty levels and terrain types. One camper noted, "Nice little campground in desert-quiet," making it an ideal starting point for morning rides.
Explore lava formations: North Lava Tube Camp offers unique geological features within riding distance. "The trails are well marked and one can explore the Lava Tubes which is just across the dirt road and easy access," shares Doc P. The volcanic landscapes provide distinctive riding experiences not commonly found elsewhere.
Wildlife observation: Several equestrian camping areas offer opportunities to observe desert wildlife. At Kokoweef Dispersed Camping, one visitor reported, "There were two burros in the area which were fun to witness," providing unexpected encounters while camping with horses.
What campers like
Morning trail access: Horse owners appreciate the direct trail connections available at Wild Horse Road. "After about 10 minutes (3.1 miles) there were campsites. Plenty of spaces and spread out," notes Hillary T., describing the practical layout that accommodates trailers and allows for early morning rides.
Privacy between sites: North Lava Tube Camp provides well-spaced camping areas. "The campsite we chose past the little hill was not visible from the other campsites and it had a great view of the valley and the mountains," writes Amy H., highlighting the separation that allows horses to remain undisturbed by neighboring campers.
Seasonal temperature variations: Winter camping offers more comfortable conditions for equestrians. "I was there towards the end of April and it was in the 90's and sunny during the day, a hot breeze coming from the west. At night, it was clear and starry and a low around 65," reports a camper, noting conditions that can affect horse comfort and riding schedules.
What you should know
Road conditions affect trailer access: Many access roads require careful navigation with horse trailers. At Searchlight BLM, a camper advised, "Access from the freeway is doable for most rigs, just take it slow as there are some ruts and dips. It's .4 miles from the freeway to this spot." This applies to most horse-accessible sites in the region.
Water management essential: No natural water sources exist for horses at most sites. "It is simple enough to just buy a toilet bucket at Sportsman's Warehouse and add a bag of pine pellets that you can throw away in the dump when you leave," suggests Amy H., with similar preparation needed for horse water supplies.
Wind exposure considerations: Horse owners should position trailers strategically for wind protection. "4 stars as there is no protection from wind. Temp at night 36F in February," notes Gregory O., highlighting a common challenge for equestrians in open desert terrain.
Tips for camping with families
Stargazing opportunities: Black Canyon offers excellent night sky viewing for families with horses. "There isn't a lot of light pollution so on a clear night, it's awesome," writes a camper, making evening activities possible after day rides.
Cell service availability: Families requiring connectivity should note service varies by location. "I had 3 bars of Verizon LTE and was able to text and send videos and do some of my remote work," reports Doc P., information crucial for families needing to stay connected while trail riding.
Supply planning: Baker serves as the primary resupply point for horse camping families. "Baker is just 10 miles away and has a few gas stations and a market that have pretty much everything from laundry detergent to firewood," notes a reviewer, allowing families to stock necessities without long drives.
Tips from RVers
Trailer positioning: At Riverside Adventure Trails RV Resort, horse trailers require strategic parking. "Site is clean, toilets and shower block spacious and tidy," mentions kate B., noting the organized layout that accommodates larger rigs with horse trailers.
Turnaround availability: Several dispersed sites feature designated turnaround areas for trailers. "There's a turn around there for people towing trailers," explains a camper about one location, a critical feature for safely maneuvering horse trailers in primitive camping areas.
Temperature management: Summer heat requires additional cooling strategies for horses and humans alike. "The pool was an absolute lifesaver in the August heat!" shares a reviewer, highlighting the importance of selecting sites with shade or cooling options during warmer months when traveling with horses.
