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Stoddard Valley OHV Area

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees public lands in all fifty states, including more than 10 million acres in California. The agency's mission is to conserve these lands for future generations while welcoming outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy them today. RVers can hike, ride recreational vehicles, and camp on BLM lands in the Golden State. Developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds have some amenities, charge a small fee, and may require a reservation. Alternatively, free dispersed camping is available on most BLM lands. Stoddard Valley OHV Area is 15 miles southwest of Barstow, California, nestled in the triangle formed by Interstate 15 and California Highway 247. It is a popular destination for OHV enthusiasts to ride this region's unique Mojave Desert terrain. The area also offers excellent hiking, boating, and fishing opportunities. San Bernardino National Forest is about 40 miles to the southwest and boasts striking landscapes where the desert meets pine tree-covered mountains. Rodman Mountains Wilderness is 50 miles to the east and is a peaceful place to observe Mojave Desert wildlife. In addition, Joshua Tree National Park is 90 miles to the southeast.

What to See and Do

What to See and Do

Hiking and BikingHiking and Biking

Achy-Breaky Trail

Achy-Breaky Trail is inside Stoddard Valley and is a loop that circles the base of Watkins Peak. It weaves in and out of side canyons, and also offers terrific views of the rocky landscape and sage bushes below. It is a challenging hike that involves some rock scrambling and steep inclines. Length: 6.2 miles Intensity: Difficult

Bell Mountain

Bell Mountain is about a 15-minute drive southwest, and you will spot it from the highway as you approach. The trail here is a relatively short, steep hike to a summit with a panoramic view. You will see the San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountains in the distance and a vast expanse of the Mojave Desert below. Length: 1.4 miles Intensity: Moderate

Owl Canyon Trail

Owl Canyon Trail is in the Rainbow Basin Natural Area near Barstow. On this route, you will hike through a badlands area with multicolored rock formations and canyons. Much of the trail is shaded by the canyon walls, and there is a cave to explore near the beginning of the trek. Length: 3.3 miles Intensity: Moderate

Bass Hill Trail

Bass Hill Trail is an easy hike in Lions Park, about 18 miles south of Stoddard Valley. The route's main attraction is a house built by the founders of Apple Valley, referred to as the Hill Top House. You can see Antelope Valley and the town of Apple Valley sprawled out below once you reach the top. Length: 1.9 miles Intensity: Easy

Fishing and BoatingFishing and Boating

RVers interested in fishing can head to Mojave Narrows Regional Park, where Horseshoe Lake and Pelican Lake are stocked with trout and catfish annually. At this park, several fishing derbies are held throughout the year. Alternatively, anglers can head to Silver Lake, just south of Mojave Narrows. There is a boat launch for paddling enthusiasts, and boat rentals are available at the marina.

Wildlife ViewingWildlife Viewing

While exploring Stoddard Valley OHV Area and the surrounding lands, you will likely spot bighorn sheep. They are usually found in herds of up to 10, weigh up to 300 pounds, and can survive by eating cactus plants. Other wildlife in the area include jackrabbits, mule deer, and desert tortoises. Avid birders may want to check out Rodman Mountains Wilderness. This area is one of the few breeding grounds for raptors in the Mojave Desert. Golden eagles and prairie falcons also thrive here.

OHV Riding

Stoddard Valley OHV Area has 53,000 acres open to off-road riding. Rolling hills, valleys, rocky and sandy spots, and steep climbs make it an excellent destination to ride your dirt bike, ATV, or another four-wheel drive vehicle. Stoddard Valley's central and southern portions are suitable for beginners and can be used to build your skills. The eastern parts and the trails leading into the Stoddard Mountains offer a challenge for experienced OHV enthusiasts.

Camping

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping Caravan Icon

BLM RV camping is available at Stoddard Valley OHV Area in the form of dispersed camping with no amenities. Mojave Narrows Regional Park Campground has RV sites with full hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables if you want more services.

Free Camping Campground Icon

Besides the Bureau of Land Management free camping at Stoddard Valley, there are dispersed camping areas at Rodman Mountains Wilderness and San Bernardino National Forest. To find these sites and other free options, search "BLM camping near me" on your smart device once you are in the area. In California, there is typically a 14-day stay limit at dispersed camping sites.

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Planning Your Trip

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Stoddard Valley OHV Area BLM trip

If you plan to ride your OHV in Stoddard Valley or other off-roading areas in California, get your Green Sticker from the Department of Motor Vehicles before heading out. They are available online, and the fee varies depending on whether you are a resident or visitor. In addition, if you plan to have a campfire while staying in dispersed camping areas in the Golden State, you will need a California Campfire Permit, which you can also acquire online for free. Stoddard Valley and other nearby BLM sites are in an arid environment, and many do not have potable water available, so bring plenty with you. You will also need clothing suitable for the desert, including a hat to protect your face from the sun. Don't forget to bring some warm layers for the evenings because it can get chilly when the sun sets, even after a hot day. Finally, hikers may want to bring along thick-soled boots and hiking poles because the trails in the area tend to require navigating over jagged rocks. Camping at BLM sites in this region of California is a unique way to experience the Mojave Desert and its fascinating geography. However, it takes careful planning to ensure you are comfortable while staying at sites that do not offer many amenities. Before you head out, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace Leaf

Following Leave No Trace principles allows you to do your part in preserving public lands for fellow campers and future outdoor enthusiasts. When vacating your camping site, take the time to clean up, bringing all trash and food scraps with you if no garbage can is available. When hiking, biking, or OHV riding, stay on designated trails to minimize your impact on local habitats and reduce soil erosion. In addition, avoid disturbing wildlife by maintaining your distance and not feeding the animals.

Leave No Trace
Location

Stoddard Valley OHV Area Location

From Barstow, take California Highway 247 and drive south 10 miles. Next, turn onto Stoddard Wells Road, which brings you into Stoddard Valley OHV Area. Latitude / longitude: 34.75910278, -117.0651806 Ready to visit Stoddard Valley OHV Area? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.

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