Wild Horse Canyon Road

Wild Horse Canyon Road winds through a rugged and scenic part of Mojave National Preserve, offering striking views of Wild Horse Mesa and the volcanic cliffs near Hole-in-the-Wall. Though it feels remote, the road is easily accessed from the Hole-in-the-Wall Visitor Center and Campground.

Several hiking trailheads branch off along the route, leading deeper into the backcountry. These paths pass through dramatic landscapes and even feature ancient petroglyphs left by Indigenous people who once lived in the area. Many trailheads double as dispersed camping sites.

Camping options range from dispersed sites to improved campgrounds. At the south end, the Hole-in-the-Wall Campground provides picnic areas, fire rings, benches, and pit toilets, but no shade. Further north, Mid Hills Campground offers similar dry camping amenities. Both were heavily burned in the 2020 Dome Fire; while now open, the trees remain scorched and lifeless.

Additional designated and dispersed campsites are scattered along the road. A standout spot lies less than a mile from the southern entrance, nestled among tall rock formations. Another notable site sits at the north end, beside a dramatic stone outcrop.

A sign at the south entrance warns that the road is suitable only for high-clearance, 4-wheel-drive vehicles. It starts out wide enough for two-way traffic but narrows to a single lane about a third of the way in. Some sections are rutted and rocky, requiring careful driving. Still, it’s a good choice for beginners looking to gain confidence on mild offroad terrain.