Mohave National Preserve offers extensive opportunities to experience desert landscapes. The preserve promotes understanding and appreciation for the increasingly threatened resources of the Mojave Desert. This remote preserve encourages a sense of discovery and a connection to wild places.
There are many opportunities to enjoy Mojave National Preserve with your dog. Dogs are prohibited inside buildings, except for service animals.
Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet, except for dogs used while hunting. Pets may never be left unattended. Pet excrement must be collected and disposed of in garbage receptacles
Abundant cactus spines and the chance of a run-in with a rattlesnake or scorpion are good reasons not to let your pet roam free. Wild predators such as coyotes and mountain lions could prey on your pet, even during daylight hours.
The best time to visit the Preserve with dogs includes January through March and October/November when temperatures in the park are comfortable and walking paths won’t burn paws (watch out for cacti though). Temperatures over 100 degrees F. may begin as early as May. Many summer days are too hot for outdoor activities.
In winter, the higher elevations typically receive some snow. All elevations experience large temperature fluctuations throughout the day – bring layers. Keep in mind that day length changes throughout the year. In the winter, the sun will set as early as 4:30 PM.
Summer temps in the preserve can exceed 120 degrees. Hiking or dealing with a vehicle breakdown on a remote road can quickly become a life-threatening emergency. Plan and prepare with water, and shade, and stay with your vehicle. We don’t recommend visiting the preserve with dogs during the summer months.
The desert can be deadly for pets. Car temperatures rise quickly in the sun, even on cool days. Your pet could die of heat exhaustion. Pets should never be left unattended in vehicles at Mojave National Preserve.
Mohave National Preserve has many dog-friendly hiking trails, including Kelso Dunes, Teutonia Peak Trail and Barber Peak Loop Trail. In addition, dogs are welcome at both Hole-in-the-Wall and Mid Hills Campgrounds in the park.
Information, park brochures, drinking water, and passport stamps are available at Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center.