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DUMONT DUNES VISITOR GUIDE
Dumont Dunes Rules & Regulations
Important riding regulations, camping rules, safety reminders, and permit information for visitors to Dumont Dunes.
Dumont Dunes is an incredible place to ride, camp, and spend time with friends and family. Keeping it that way means following the rules, respecting other visitors, and protecting the surrounding desert.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime Dumont regular, take a few minutes to review these regulations before your trip. Many of these requirements are enforced by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and California law.
Important: This page is a visitor reference, not a complete statement of current law. Regulations, permit requirements, and temporary restrictions may change. Always follow posted signs and current BLM and California requirements.
Rules for Riding & Camping at Dumont
Vehicle Requirements
- All vehicles must have the required muffler and spark arrester equipment and must be properly registered, licensed, or permitted for OHV use in California.
- Out-of-state visitors may need a California Nonresident OHV Use Permit. A valid home-state OHV registration is generally recognized, but reciprocity rules and certain exceptions apply.
- All OHVs must have a whip mast with a red or orange safety flag for visibility in the dunes.
- Vehicles operated at night must have functioning headlights and taillights.
Riding & Safety Rules
- All ATV operators and passengers must wear approved safety helmets.
- ATV passengers are allowed only when the ATV is specifically designed by the manufacturer to carry a passenger.
- Operators and passengers of recreational side-by-sides subject to California's ROV helmet requirements must wear approved helmets.
- Never operate an OHV in a reckless manner that endangers other people or property.
- Do not operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Stay within areas and routes open to OHV use. Respect posted signs, fences, and closed areas.
Camping & Campfire Rules
- Camping is permitted within the designated open area and is limited to a maximum of 14 consecutive days.
- Do not camp or park in a way that blocks roads or access routes.
- Glass beverage containers are prohibited.
- Fireworks are prohibited at Dumont Dunes.
- Firewood containing nails, screws, or other metal hardware is prohibited. Do not burn pallets.
- Campfire permits are required for campfires and certain other open-flame uses. Seasonal fire restrictions may also apply.
- Keep pets on a leash.
Protecting Dumont
- Shooting is not permitted within the Dumont Dunes OHV Recreation Area.
- Draining sewage tanks, littering, or dumping trash is prohibited.
- Pack out everything you bring into the dunes.
- Do not damage vegetation, historical sites, or natural features.
- Wilderness areas are closed to motorized vehicles.
- On surrounding limited-use routes such as Sperry Wash, stay on designated OHV routes.
Speed Limits & Reckless Driving
15 MPH Near Campsites & People
California Vehicle Code 38310: The prima facie speed limit is 15 MPH within 50 feet of a campground, campsite, or concentration of people or animals.
Reckless or Unsafe Driving: California Vehicle Code sections 38305, 38314, 38316(a), and 38317 address unsafe speed, turning, and reckless or dangerous operation.
Slow down around campsites, pedestrians, children, pets, and congested riding areas. Watch for vehicles approaching from every direction.
Dumont Dunes speed limit sign — click to enlarge.
Dumont Dunes Rules, Safety Tips & Dune Etiquette
Safe duning is about more than just following the law. Good dune etiquette helps prevent accidents and makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Always look ahead for other riders, use caution when approaching dune crests, and never assume the other side of a dune is clear. Give other vehicles plenty of room and avoid riding aggressively around campsites.
Special Events & Vending Permits
Some activities on BLM-managed public land may require special authorization or permits. Requirements depend on the activity, location, size, and whether it is commercial or organized.
Activities That May Require BLM Authorization
- Commercial Filming & Photography: Commercial productions, advertising, television projects, and certain other filming activities. Some smaller productions may qualify for exemptions or different authorization requirements.
- Competitive Events: Organized vehicle races, motorcycle competitions, and other competitive events.
- Commercial Product Testing: Certain organized commercial vehicle, equipment, or product testing activities.
- Musical Events: Organized concerts, performances, and similar events.
- Vending: Selling food, merchandise, or services on BLM-managed land.
Drone operators: Recreational or commercial drone flying does not automatically require a special event permit simply because a drone is being used. However, commercial filming, organized operations, land-use restrictions, and applicable FAA rules may create additional requirements. Check with BLM before planning a commercial or organized activity.
How to Get Permit Information
Contact the BLM Barstow Field Office to discuss your planned activity and determine whether authorization is required.
Filming, competitive events, vending, and other activities may be handled by different BLM staff.
BLM Barstow Field Office
Official BLM Dumont Information →
2601 Barstow Road
Barstow, CA 92311
Phone: (760) 252-6000Before you head to Dumont: Make sure your OHV registration, safety equipment, recreation pass, and any required campfire permits are in order. Current regulations and temporary restrictions always take precedence over the information on this page.
