Recreation Area · CA

Dogs in El Mirage Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Dog-friendly

This dry lakebed OHV area allows dogs, but pets must be leashed at all times under BLM rules. Keep your dog close given the fast vehicle traffic on the playa.

This is open OHV terrain rather than a trail network. Keep dogs leashed at all times and watch for vehicles, since the playa lets riders reach high speeds.

Where dogs are allowed

This is open OHV terrain rather than a trail network. Keep dogs leashed at all times and watch for vehicles, since the playa lets riders reach high speeds.

Seasonal closures

Summer heat on the open lakebed is intense with no shade. Bring plenty of water and protect your dog's paws from hot ground.

Leash rule

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, trailheads, and picnic sites. On most of the open BLM land there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times, and local field offices can set stricter rules.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
Bureau of Land Management
View the BLM page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
Recreation Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to El Mirage Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area?

This dry lakebed OHV area allows dogs, but pets must be leashed at all times under BLM rules. Keep your dog close given the fast vehicle traffic on the playa. This is open OHV terrain rather than a trail network. Keep dogs leashed at all times and watch for vehicles, since the playa lets riders reach high speeds.

What is the leash rule at El Mirage Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area?

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, trailheads, and picnic sites. On most of the open BLM land there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times, and local field offices can set stricter rules.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at El Mirage Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area?

Summer heat on the open lakebed is intense with no shade. Bring plenty of water and protect your dog's paws from hot ground.

Are service animals allowed at El Mirage Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.