Rickman Road

Rickman Road, designated as OM6618 by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is a rugged and sometimes rough offroad trail that winds through the heart of the West Ord Mountains. This trail serves as a direct connector between Lucerne Valley and Quill Springs, linking to an expansive network of desert BLM roads. History lingers along the route, with remnants of the area’s rich mining past subtly scattered throughout the mountains. Weathered tailings, forgotten springs, and the ruins of old mining camps appear sporadically, whispering stories of the region’s mining past.

The trail’s terrain is a dynamic mix of sandy stretches, coarse gravel, and scattered grapefruit-sized rocks, making for a bumpy drive. It cuts through winding desert washes on either side of a 3,989-foot pass, offering scenic views and a true sense of remote exploration. At the summit, a secluded campsite awaits, perfect for a solo rig and a tent, providing a peaceful overnight stop under the vast desert sky. For those seeking a larger camping area, an additional site can be found on the east side of the pass, near the remnants of an old building foundation. This spot offers ample space for multiple vehicles.