Recreation Area · CA

Dogs in Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area

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

Johnson Valley is a 96,000-acre off-highway-vehicle area. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed, and this is an active motorized area where loose dogs are at real risk from vehicles.

Dogs can join you across the open riding area and dispersed camps, but keep them leashed and close to camp. Coyotes, rattlesnakes, and fast vehicles are all hazards here.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs can join you across the open riding area and dispersed camps, but keep them leashed and close to camp. Coyotes, rattlesnakes, and fast vehicles are all hazards here.

Seasonal closures

Part of the area is a shared-use zone with the Marine Corps and periodically closes for military training. Check current closures before you go.

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 Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area?

Johnson Valley is a 96,000-acre off-highway-vehicle area. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed, and this is an active motorized area where loose dogs are at real risk from vehicles. Dogs can join you across the open riding area and dispersed camps, but keep them leashed and close to camp. Coyotes, rattlesnakes, and fast vehicles are all hazards here.

What is the leash rule at Johnson Valley 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 Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area?

Part of the area is a shared-use zone with the Marine Corps and periodically closes for military training. Check current closures before you go.

Are service animals allowed at Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area?

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