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    Kelso Dunes

    4.8 (31 reviews)

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    George L.

    Amazing and a must go, especially during the early morning! I went on a day trip from Irvine and only took about 3 hours to get to the dunes from SoCal and it is such a sight to see being on 700ft/230m sand dunes!!! The drive was easy: Go on 40, enter the Mojave preserve going north then make a left on an unmarked, unpaved road pointing Kelso Dunes. There's a lot of potholes and as long as you go 15mph you're good. Try not to go too fast since reception is very spotty and getting stuck here you'll be hours from any help. Now it's during the COVID epidemic and basically all services here are closed: restrooms, campgrounds, visitor centers, etc. But the natural aspects of the Mojave Preserve is open and doesn't cost anything to visit! I left around 1am, drove through Barstow and arrived around 4:30 am in the dark and started climbing. It was nice and cool and around halfway to the top, the sun came up and it was already getting warm. The whole roundtrip takes about 3 hours walking (not including the time spent on top of the sand dunes) and while it looks close at first, it's quite challenging one you're on the sand (as long as you stay on the ridges, it's easier of course). I definitely wished I brought something to board with, as the slopes are quite steep and would probably be great sledding material. Still found good pics though! 5/5, I recommend this to any adventurer that likes seeing some remote natural beauty, and a small getaway from the hustle of modern life.

    View of the dunes
    Angela L.

    We took a trip from the Teutonia Peak Trail over to Kelso Dunes while hiking in the area. The drive down the long bumpy road to the start of the trail took over 30 minutes to get 2ish miles due to all the potholes. The speed limit on that road is 15, but I wouldn't go over 5 mph if you don't have a 4x4! The road is not kept up, which is a shame since the Kelso Dunes are beautiful. The bathrooms at the start of the trail are closed right now due to the pandemic and with no restrooms for miles upon miles, you are left with the need to go or the option of going outside. We missed the entrance to the trail, which is where the closed restrooms are and there is a good amount of parking with designated wooden fence that we sort of missed when we realized the bathrooms were closed. I should have read the sign better. Then we drove down the road more to where the camping area?? I think is. I'm sure not following the trail made the hike so much harder. The soft sand loves to enter your shoes! There were times I could not climb without my feet sinking and instead ended up doing mountain climbers on the side of the dune to try and make it to the top. So I got an incredible workout! We had an amazing time and loved the view! My tips: Drive 5 mph or a 4X4 or other vehicle that can handle that bumpy pot holes filled road. Definitely use the designated trail. Use the bathroom whenever you see a gas station. Don't forget to reapply your sunscreen. It was a gorgeous 80 degrees today which doesn't happen often at the end of June in the desert and there was a nice breeze but I didn't reapply my sunscreen very well on my shoulders, face and chest and took a very nice sunburn home with me! No matter what--enjoy the beauty in the dunes. It is breathtaking! Can't wait to go back!

    IG: pachiedeperalta
    Patricia D.

    [19/100] Cold sand is just as painful to walk through barefoot as it is hot and it still gets everywhere! Kelso Dunes isn't the tallest dunes I've climbed or road down on a body board, BUT it is the funnest! Visited on a sunny with my snowboard turned sand board minus the bindings. It was such a good time because I had the place all to myself. Another human being was a good mile or 2 away. I was screaming so loud from how fast my board was going down these sand dunes, no wax or grease needed. The hike from the road (the camp site is) isn't too bad, definitely gets the heart rate going! Theres a lot of vegetation that grows on the sand; however, it lessens getting closer to the dunes. The sand in the shade is extremely cold and will transfer a chill through your entire foot to the ankle, instantaneously! The sand exposed to the sand is bearable and got better as the day progressed. There are bathrooms about a mile away from where the dunes actually start. There are also signs that provide information about the sand dunes and surrounding area. The road isn't well kept and will shake the crap out of your car! I visited after rain and the road was muddy and had a lot of pot holes, so be careful when driving through! DO NOT GET STUCK! The drive is about 3 1/2 from Los Angeles and around the same from San Diego. It's one of the better long drives that I've done. There actually stuff to see and the terrain changes along the drive, it isn't just flat desert. What to bring: - Sled and/or snowboard (with or without bindings) - Water - Sunblock (even in the winter) - Handsanitizer and/or wipes - Extra clothes ( SAND GETS EVERYWHERE!) Pros: - Free - Easy to find - Secluded - Beautiful area - On the other side of Joshua Tree Cons: - The roads are rough! - Service is spotty. Bookmark it, visit it, review it!

    Kaori M.

    Amazing view from the top of the dune. Love climbing and descending dunes. It is surrounded by the vast land, mountains. There is a spacious parking lot with the restroom.

    The start
    Luziano C.

    First off, if you're in the area and want to hike some cool ish then cooooome on down!! I suggest sunblock, water, some tunes, and some type of board to go down the dunes. Oh and maybe a bandana or face mask to help you when you reach the top! I researched this a bit and found out it was a good hike to get to the top and that a board would it a lot better, so I brought my snowboard to use as a SANDBOARD. Well, I had all the necessities listed above BUT sunblock, luckily a local hiker hooked me up. Everyone who's hiking there is friendly and won't hesitate to help or join you. The trek to the top took roughly over an hour, but the views was well worth it! Make sure to locate sand that's hard to make the hike easier and to climb the dunes from the sides as oppose going straight up because you will sink! Once you reach the top you will have a bunch of gusts of sand coming from every direction, so be prepared with a mask and a water bottle to rinse off. If you're standing away from the edges you'll be alright and can just enjoy the calling of the wind. When coming down the sand dunes the sand will make an unusual noise, but pretty cool to experience. If you're SANDBOARDING, I recommend you don't stop once you commence because attempting to get back up after eating it will be a difficult task! Keep the momentum going or be prepared for the 2nd part of the workout. Overall 5 stars because you can't hate on Mother Natures wonders! They have restrooms at the parking lot for you to use, but are only light is through an open window. The road to the parking lot is bumpy, but do-able for non 4x4s and trucks. I have a rear wheel Dodge Charger and made it just fine!

    Sand Dunes
    Kody S.

    It's amazing how many different environments we have in southern CA. I've heard of the Kelso Dunes, but was clueless, they were only a few hours from my residents. Therefore, I decided to take a road trip and what a surprise these dunes were. Directions are simple, but hiking in the sand is no joke. However, if you enjoy working out, being in nature and sweating, this hike will give it all to you. Please take water with you. Also, eat before the hike and I would suggest some snacks in the car for when you return. In addition a change of socks and shoes. You will definitely get dirty. If you have an opportunity, check out the dunes and be please respect the wildlife in the area. Be Safe and enjoy the dunes!

    Mojave '17
    C C.

    This is definitely a must see! We drove in from the 40 freeway, and on the way to the dunes the granite hills are a few miles down the road. Then all of a sudden you just see these big hills of sand off in the distance. We had a blast. It definitely could be a little challenging if you're out of shape BUT once you get to where you want to be it's so quiet and peaceful. Sand does get everywhere but it's manageable. Pictures are so fun we captured some fun moments. The sunset was gorgeous. It's easy to find from either freeway. The road is a bit rough that takes you to the dunes from the main road. They have bathrooms in the parking lot (not the greatest smell). As for cell reception I think it depends on your provider. I definitely want to stop here again on our way to Vegas!

    Sand walk to the dunes-Kelso Dunes
    Stephanie P.

    THE SOUNDS WE HEARD WAS LIKE NO OTHER! Me and The Crew headed out to the Mojave Desert for the weekend again and on our way back like last year, we stopped by the Kelso Depot Visitor Center on our way back home so those who missed out last year had a chance to check it out. The high point of this trip came after leaving the depot. Our adventure took place at Kelso Dunes, also known as the Kelso Dune Field, is the largest field of eolian sand deposits in the Mojave Desert. The region is protected by the Mojave National Preserve and is located near the town of Baker, San Bernardino County, California, and the Preserve Visitor Center. The dune field covers 45 square miles and includes migrating dunes, vegetation-stabilized dunes, sand sheets, and sand ramps. The tallest dunes rise up to 650 feet above the surrounding terrain. OUR ROUTE: The trail head is a mile or so of dirty, dusty road from the paved road. An easy to follow unmarked trail to the base of the dunes is a relatively flat with a mix of soft sand. The trek was a nice glute warm up for the 650' one step up three slides down glute burning dune. The 360 degree view from the crest of the dunes is breathtaking, both literally and figuratively. What goes up, must come down, and oh boy coming down the dunes was more fun than riding any roller coaster. Oh sure, if you have any fear of heights it can be intimidating, but once you get started racing down the hill, you'll realize there's nothing to be afraid of, it's only sand, no rocks and no bushes. The more speed behind the run, the more awesome. With every running step comes a roaring sound, a bellowing sound and it's just amazing. HOP SKIP AND A JUMP! What else is there to say? Running the dunes took us back to our childhood, a time when we did not know, nor understand the concept of fear. We were FREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! WHEEEEE!!!

    Kelso Dunes by Christina L
    Christina L.

    I went camping out in the Mojave this past weekend and we went to the Kelso Dunes, and the only thing I can say about it is that it is amazing. The hike from the parking spot to the bottom of the dunes was a little tricky (think soft beach sand for 1.7 miles), but the reward once we hiked to the top of the 600ft dune was kicking off our shoes and enjoying breathtaking view of the Mojave. It was very windy up there, if your ears bother you, I suggest a hat with a bandana stuck underneath to cover your ears. Also, wear something over your eyes, as flying sand is not fun. Also bring water and wear sunscreen.. We hiked it at around 3:30/4 pm and that was a perfect time to hike, we got to the top and came back down just as the sun was beginning to set. I can't imagine this hike being fun when it's any hotter than 70-75 degrees out, so its probably best to do it in Spring, Winter or Fall. pics here: http://www.maybeyoushouldsleep.com/photos/hikes/kelso-dunes/index.php

    Sarah Jane W.

    One of my all-time favorite hikes!!! About 2.5 hours from Vegas, these giant sand dunes are a TOTAL BLAST to hike! I went in April, when it was probably about 80 degrees out, and it was perfect. The dunes are pretty remote, down a long dirt road, so you don't run into too many other people out here. They don't allow sand rails and dune buggies out here, so you won't run into any testosterone-crazed rednecks, either. It took me about a solid hour to climb to the top of the biggest dune. What a workout! You know how hiking in sand is...one step forward, two steps back! But once you do make it to the top, the view is amazing! Major bonus: these are known as "Booming Dunes" that are composed of some weird silica that "sings" when you slide down them. The sand vibrates, kinda like a didgeridoo. Weird and cool, although not as loud and "boomy" as I had imagined. Still SUPER cool, though! Camping is permitted at the Kelso Dunes, though I've never done it. There are no bathrooms or running water, so it would be boondocking for sure. But there are plenty of shade trees and a BBQ pit...and I bet it's an awesomely quiet, relaxing spot. When you leave, you can go back the way you came and stop in Baker for lunch (Mad Greek...holla!) or you can take Nipton Rd. instead, for a change of scenery that takes you through a Joshua tree forest and past some weird pancake rock outcroppings. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!

    Christy A.

    Our proposal was here at the Kelso Dunes trail entrance on NOV. 18. 2018, we had lost a very important earring around this area. It's a white skeleton about 3 inches long. If you had seen it on the ground or had picked it up PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let me know it would mean the world to me to have it back. THANK YOU!!!

    Gabby L.

    I found Kelso Dunes googling for local deserts. This place was perfect for my engagement photos. I was inspired by Beyoncé and Jay-z's on the run tour. The drive there from LA was about 3 hours total and 3 hours back. The parking was obvious (thank goodness). The hike to the base of the dunes was about a mile and took about 20 minutes. Considering I was in a gown and doc martins. It was an amazing spot and I never breathed in such fresh air. Definitely recommend for photo shoots or a good hike!

    Hikers at the top of Kelso Dunes enjoying the sunset.
    Stories K.

    Worth stopping and camping. Beautiful place. Some places are worth coming back to more than once and I keep coming back to Kelso Dunes. Sand dunes! In So Cal!

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    Ask the Community - Kelso Dunes

    Review Highlights - Kelso Dunes

    I suggest sunblock, water, some tunes, and some type of board to go down the dunes.

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    Calico Ghost Town

    Calico Ghost Town

    3.9(554 reviews)
    96.1 km

    Calico Ghost Town is a historic ghost town and former silver mining community located in the Calico…read moreMountains of California's Mojave Desert. Founded in 1881 during the silver mining boom, the town prospered for over a decade before declining when silver prices collapsed. By 1907, most residents had left, and Calico was eventually restored and transformed into the county-operated attraction known today as Calico Ghost Town.   Situated just off Interstate 15, about 3 miles from both Barstow and Yermo, Calico has become a popular stop for travelers exploring Southern California or driving between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. We visited in February 2026 during our trip to Las Vegas and were impressed by the dramatic desert scenery, unique rock formations, and panoramic views from the surrounding hills.   Today, visitors from around the world come to experience the atmosphere of an authentic Old West mining town. The park offers a variety of amenities, including RV and group camping, cabins and bunkhouses, mountain biking trails, off-road vehicle areas, shops, and restaurants. Throughout the year, Calico hosts several special events such as Civil War reenactments, the Spring Festival with Americana music, Calico Days celebrations featuring burro races and mining-themed activities, and the popular Halloween Ghost Haunt in October.   Only minutes from Interstate 15 and a short drive north of Barstow, Calico Ghost Town makes an enjoyable roadside stop for food, shopping, sightseeing, and a glimpse into California's mining history. However, I would recommend visiting Calico Ghost Town during the spring or winter months rather than in the summer, when desert temperatures can become extremely hot and less comfortable for exploring the outdoor attractions and surrounding hills.

    Whats happened to this place ? I am sad to say that Calico…read morehas seen better days. Ive been going here since the 1980s. I miss what it felt like, even 15ish years ago. Yes its an OLD run down ghost town but it truely feels OLD and run down now. Trash everywhere. Spiderwebs and dust everywhere. Its not the Calico look, its literally no one cleaning around here. It looks so unclean everywhere we went. Also...I dont feel many workers are in Character anymore. I miss that. If they are even dressed up they are just sitting around on their phones or talking to each ither. Zero interaction. Zero immersion... just so disappointed. We keep coming back but its just getting worse.

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    Calico Ghost Town
    Calico Ghost Town
    Calico Ghost Town - Restaurant

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    Restaurant

    Mojave Lava Tubes - View of the tube from on top

    Mojave Lava Tubes

    4.7(23 reviews)
    32.3 km

    I can't believe I forgot to review this crazy adventure from a couple years ago…read more I have visited the lava tubes in Hawaii and when I found out we had one in the middle of the desert I knew I would have to come check it out. Post pandemic, my husband and I set out on a Saturday morning to find and explore these tubes. From Las Vegas it takes roughly 2.5 hours to get there. Driving the I15 freeway, take the Kelso Road exit and make a left turn. Drive on this road till you see Aiken Mine Road. Turn here and it will take you to the tubes. Be advised this is a dirt road not maintained so it can be a challenge for a regular vehicle. High clearance vehicles are preferred. Once you arrive and park, you will see the trail that takes you to a ladder that you will climb down to enter the tube. Be careful and watch your head as you descend into the lava tube. It is very easy to hit your head on the overhead rock hanging down. If you hit the tube at just the right time, light will filter through and it's very interesting and unique. Be careful with the dust down there, it is swirling all around from foot traffic. I advise wearing a mask like I did in order to not breathe in bad air. Although not as picturesque as the Hawaiian tubes, it was a fun little adventure to seek out. Remember to follow the principles and Leave No Trace.

    Very cool spot, off the beaten path... and when I say beaten, I mean it -- think bumpy, rocky…read more.. all the things besides smooth lol! This is about a 30 min drive off 15 and then once you turn off the main road, you'll take the unpaved road about 4.5 miles to the lava tubes where you'll then walk about .3 miles or so! Super easy and straightforward to find, worth it but take a look at my tips to understand what to prepare for to make it a great experience! 1. Make sure you have a vehicle that is higher up and can with stand a bumpy road -- it is no joke! 2. Climb all the way down into the lava tube, don't just look from above, otherwise it's not worth the trip. 3. Make sure you have some kind of light source because it's dark and you will bump your head or trip if you can't see. If you only have your phone, highly recommend videoing with the flash on, it is MUCH brighter than just the flashlight. 4. There is minimal to no service so just be prepared for that. 5. The 4.5 mile road to the lava tubes is one wide enough for cars going both ways most of the time, but there are times it's really a one lane road, so be aware of who is coming at you from afar and use the pull offs if needed. 6. Optimal lighting in the tube is between 10-2. Think peak sun time. This is slightly dependent on the season as it could fluctuate a bit, but ultimately that's the best time! Hopefully my review and tips help you have a great adventure at the lava tubes! Enjoy!

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    Mojave Lava Tubes
    Mojave Lava Tubes - Entrance with staircase

    Entrance with staircase

    Mojave Lava Tubes - Unpaved road

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    Unpaved road

    Mitchell Caverns Natural Preserve

    Mitchell Caverns Natural Preserve

    4.4(27 reviews)
    69.7 km

    I've been on a LOT of tours in a LOT of places around the world, and Willy is in my top 10! The…read morecaverns are pretty cool, but Willy's knowledge, humor, pacing, and care made this a five-star experience. Our group ranged in age from tween to 60s and everyone was engaged for two hours. I'm a California Naturalist with high standards and Willy knows his stuff! As a native Californian I especially loved knowing he's local, young, and a former CCC "graduate". His contributions and energy are why these government programs are so important. Must see if you're visiting the area, but be warned -- you need reservations and these fill up weeks ahead of time. The paved road, nature center, views, and well-organized everything made this a real treat!

    Tours are offered on Friday-Sunday and Holiday Mondays at 11am and 2pm from October to May. In June…read moreand September, tours are on the same days but only at 10am. Reservations are highly recommended, as tour size is limited to approximately 12 people; and reservations are only taken via phone on Mondays between 8am-5pm. Cost is $10 per adult 17+ and parking is $10, payable at the visitors center upon arrival for the tour. The tour itself takes approximately 2 hours, and is about 1.5 mile round trip. It may feel strenuous for some people walking back up to the parking area from the caverns. Our guide was very knowledgeable and informative. I recommend bringing food and drinks to eat before or after the tour, as none is available. Also, leave your bags/belongings in the car. You will be asked to put these items at the entrance of the caverns, including water bottles.

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    Mitchell Caverns Natural Preserve
    Mitchell Caverns Natural Preserve
    Mitchell Caverns Natural Preserve

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    Kelso Depot - Outside the depot

    Kelso Depot

    4.6(28 reviews)
    55.9 km

    My family and I were heading over to Vegas from Joshua Tree and took a route that went through the…read moreMojave National Preserve. I don't know why I have never been through here in my entire life, but it was neat to see the landscape and feeling like I was playing Frogger as I was trying to avoid all the potholes in the 2 lane road. One random stop we came across in the middle of the preserve was the Kelso Depot. I only stopped because I saw that there was a restroom that we could use, and then was surprised to see an actual visitor center to peruse. From the signage out front here's the history: "Built in 1924, the Kelso Depot housed a train station, ticket and telegraph office, restaurant, reading room, and dormitory rooms for railroad employees. It was often called the Kelso Club House, a Union Pacific Railroad term for employee boarding and recreational facilities. As railroad technology improved and fewer personnel were needed, the Depot became obsolete. It was closed in 1985, and Union Pacific planned to raze the building. Concerned citizens intervened and the building was saved. It was renovated and reopened as a National Park Service Visitor Center in October 2005." The Depot is currently under construction as of 12/2025, but you can walk around the building and peek in through the windows. Apparently the area around the depot was like a little village during WW II. It's neat to imagine what life would've been like living out here in the middle of nowhere back in the 1940's. There's no internet out in Kelso, but you can log into the NPS Wi-Fi while you're there.

    This place was a lifesaver! Bathrooms just when we needed them! We were in that Saturday I-15…read morererouted to I-40 craziness. Took us 10 hours from Huntington Beach to Vegas. We took a Waze suggestion which ended up saving us two hours. Happened upon the Kelso Depot just at the right time. We're so grateful to these guys keeping their bathrooms open even when the visitor center is closed.

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    Kelso Depot
    Kelso Depot
    Kelso Depot

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    Teutonia Peak - Athens out exploring

    Teutonia Peak

    4.5(4 reviews)
    40.4 km

    I first hiked Teutonia Peak in 2004. It was a great hike then and still is but the landscape has…read morechanged so much. That's why I wanted to go back. During the summer, the Dome fire burned this area. What was once the largest concentration of Joshua trees in the world is now a sad hike along Joshuas that have been burned. It looked like some had some green at the top and may come back, but most won't. This three mile round trip hike starts along Cima Road. There is plenty of parking on both sides of the road. The first mile of the hike is on sand and gravel with the sand hard packed in a few places. There's a side trail that goes to some remnants of an old silver mine. The trail is clearly marked although some of the signs have faded in the desert sun. At about one mile out, the trail becomes totally different. It's here that the elevation gain of 700 feet begins. Much of the way up requires using rock steps and it becomes a workout. I seem to remember that the trail was a lot less steep almost 17 years ago, but maybe it's just me. At 1.5 miles out, you get a view of Cima Dome. It's a convex mound caused by movement of the tectonic plates in this area millions of years ago. This is where we decided to turn back as we had other things to see in the Mojave National Preserve. This is a good trail for families. It's not as beautiful as it was before the fire but the views and the rock outcrops make it a worthwhile hike!

    The hike is a fairly easy hike roughly 1.72 miles to the top. There is parking just outside the…read morestart of the trail and picnic tables at the Mojave Cross. The area is absolutely breathtaking the entire way full of wildlife and Joshua Trees and amazing cloud formations. The hike to the peak is worth it. The view is amazing!

    Photos
    Teutonia Peak - Interesting and precarious rock formations

    Interesting and precarious rock formations

    Teutonia Peak - Athens in the mancave

    Athens in the mancave

    Teutonia Peak

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    Kelso Dunes - parks - Updated May 2026

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