Dumont Dunes OHV Area is a California sand riding destination known for steep climbs, deep bowls and flowing dune transitions. Located in the Mojave Desert north of Baker, this 7,620-acre recreation area gives UTV owners a place to ride, camp and explore a dramatic landscape surrounded by volcanic hills.
The main dunes reward experienced drivers, while the separate Little Dunes offer another staging and riding option. Plan a self-sufficient trip, learn the terrain before picking up speed, and know where the open riding area ends.
Where Is Dumont Dunes?
Dumont Dunes is east of California State Route 127, about 31 miles north of Baker. Little Dunes staging is directly off the highway. About one mile farther north, Dumont Road leads to the main dune complex and crosses the Amargosa River.
Reference GPS coordinates: 35.69138056, -116.2389028. Save an offline map before leaving pavement; a coordinate is a reference point, not a recommended route across the dunes.
Check access conditions after storms and avoid entering a flooded crossing. Stock up before arrival and bring enough supplies for delays.
UTV Riding at Dumont Dunes
Dumont combines tall dune faces, bowls and ridgelines in a relatively compact riding area. The changing sand makes every trip different, and a familiar line can develop a sharp drop or deep depression after a windstorm.
Watch for witch’s eyes, steep slipfaces and narrow razorbacks. Overhead sun can flatten the shadows that help reveal these hazards. Scout unfamiliar terrain, keep the group in sight and avoid crossing a blind crest without checking the opposite side.
For your UTV, inspect the air filter, cooling system, drive belt and tires before the trip. Carry recovery equipment, a shovel and basic tools, and choose tire pressures appropriate for your vehicle, tires and load.
Best Time to Visit
The cooler months are the practical choice for dune riding. Summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees, winter nights can freeze, and strong winds can change visibility and riding conditions. Cell service is unreliable; bring an offline map and a communication plan.
Holiday trips bring more activity around camp and in the dunes. Leave extra room between vehicles and choose a quieter weekend if you want more space to learn the terrain.
Camping at Dumont Dunes
Camping is primitive, with a 14-consecutive-day limit in the open area. Bring water and supplies, pack out trash, keep pets leashed and use an appropriate dump station for wastewater. Keep access roads clear and follow posted staging restrictions.
Check current fire restrictions before using a campfire, stove or barbecue. Obtain the required California campfire permit; a permit does not override a fire restriction.
Dumont Dunes Passes and Fees
BLM currently lists these recreation pass prices. Season passes cover October 1 through September 30.
| Pass | Without Holidays | Including Holidays |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly | $30 | $40 |
| Season | $90 | $120 |
Holiday periods include Halloween, Thanksgiving, New Year’s, Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Presidents’ Day. Confirm the exact dates and purchase options through the BLM Dumont Dunes visitor page and Recreation.gov Dumont Dunes pass page.
OHV Equipment and Visitor Requirements
- Use a red or orange safety flag on a mast at least six feet above the ground.
- Equip the vehicle with an approved muffler and spark arrester; use headlights and taillights at night.
- Observe the 15 mph limit within 50 feet of a campsite, animal or pedestrian.
- Wear a helmet and secure every occupant with the proper seat belt or harness.
- Respect closed areas and wilderness boundaries. Shooting, glass containers, fireworks and firewood containing nails or screws are prohibited.
Carry valid registration or the required permit. The recreation pass and vehicle authorization are separate requirements. California’s nonresident OHV permit guidance includes reciprocity exceptions and specifically addresses Arizona street-licensed OHVs. A title alone is not registration.
For vehicle-specific legal requirements, consult California State Parks’ ROV guidance. Our explanation of the 1,000cc UTV definition adds context for owners of larger-engine vehicles.
Popular Dumont Dunes Destinations
The following reference coordinates come from our original ride guide. Sand conditions and landmarks can change, so use them with an offline map and your own terrain assessment.
North Pole
GPS: 35.68664, -116.17676.
Swing Set at Veteran’s Hill
GPS: 35.69190, -116.21707.
Sunset Hill
GPS: 35.68778, -116.22310. Allow time to return to camp as visibility fades.
South Pole
GPS: 35.66397, -116.23187.
Competition Hill
Check traffic before approaching the hill or crossing climbing lines, and keep clear of vehicles making a run.
Sperry Wash: A Designated Route Beyond the Dunes
Sperry Wash Route AR0412 follows the Amargosa River corridor north of Dumont along the Old Spanish National Historic Trail. Our original guide also highlights remains of the Tonopah & Tidewater Railroad in Amargosa Canyon.
This is outside the open dune riding area. Keep vehicle travel on the designated route and respect surrounding wilderness and habitat closures. Download the BLM Dumont Dunes map and brochure before visiting, and check conditions with the Barstow Field Office.
For more dune destinations and trail ideas, explore our UTV ride spot guides.
