Patton's Pad

This would be a 5-star except we learned it's been sold and will become restricted private land. 

I did a little research: Actually, this area has not been truly public since the Army divested it in 1946. It was municipal for a while, then became privately held, and was recently re-sold. All this time, it could be visited as if it were like the surrounding BLM land. But some careless people recently trashed it, and the owner is going to restrict access.

Too bad, there's a lot of cool WW2 history here, and it will likely be gone forever.

Good flat spot to spend the night on the way to another destination. There’s some light noise from the highway but otherwise a decent spot.

Straight shot access gravel-sand road to the concrete pad. In good shape enough to feel my AWD cargo van could do it. Beware Giant Osprey's flying over at night and landing in the daytime. I was paid a visit and told to use the corners of the concrete pad only as they might land on me! Beautiful location for sky viewing and photography.

The cement pad is about 150 yards wide and about 350 yards long. We got here as the sun was coming down. It was windy and warm but not too bad considering that this is the desert. There is absolutely nothing out here. You’ll have to bring your own shade. Nearest fuel station is 19 miles away.

I enjoyed it because it was just clean and the night sky was clear. Great for stargazing.

There is the historical side of it. It’s amazing that Patton trained out here. Over a million troops trained in the area.

It was really cool to come here and see a part of WWII. There’s not much to see, it is all completely flat dessert. It’s more of an emotional experience than anything. Highly recommend.

Gen. George Patton trained troops here for the African Campaign back in the 40's. It's a large flat concrete pad that was once part of an air base. No amenities, just a place to park. Interesting history if you research it.