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Morongo Basin Desert Run Road - Johnson Valley
Yucca Valley,
California
(SanBernardino County)
Last Updated:
09/26/2022
Trail Information
Highlights
Altitude
Camping
Desert
Iconic
Overland
Rock
Sand
WashOnce in Johnson Valley, many people wonder where the best dispersed camping is at. Morongo Basin Desert Run Road (aka Desert Run Road) is one of two favorite spots for the locals to camp at. Desert Run Road is almost totally protected from the aggressive winds that can wreak havoc on the Means Dry Lake. The weather isn’t the only reason to choose this trail for camping. Immediately off of Desert Run Road is some of the best 4x4 and off-road trails in the area including trails like a Turkey Claw, which is an extreme rock crawling trail. Mommas Sand Hill is a popular place for razors and other side by sides to hang out and there are several natural dirt bike courses against the hillside. So the next time you are in the area and wondering where to camp, take your RV, 5th Wheel, or tent and look to Desert Run Road.
Trail Difficulty and Assessment
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Trail Navigation
The trail is mostly a dirt road that crosses the desert. There are several open areas perfect for camping in both tents and RV's. This area is popular because it is against the hills helping to reduce the wind that can whip through Johnson Valley. The road is known for lots of woops, and as you cross Turkey Claw cut off, the trail will get harder and is no longer suitable for RV's and Trailers.
The US Government has come to an agreement with the Off-Roaders that use the area, and we will be sharing areas of the land in Johnson Valley with the US Military. During these times which are unknown, civilians will not be allowed in the area. There is no set schedule yet of when it will be closing and reopening. This is a growing concern for many people that enjoy the area for the fear that they will permanently close this area after the first time they use this area for Military training. Please see URL for access issues for more information.
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Trail Reviews
Temporary Closure
Visited: 10/22/2021
The area is closed for military use to Nov 1 2021
https://www.29palms.marines.mil/Staff-Offices/Government-and-External-Affairs/Johnson-Valley/#:~:text=The%20Johnson%20Valley%20Shared%20Use,military%20training%20in%20the%20area.&text=Once%20cleared%20for%20public%20use,Land%20Management%20for%20public%20recreation.
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