Natural Area · CA

Dogs in Trona Pinnacles

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

A surreal field of more than 500 tufa spires rising from a dry lakebed near Ridgecrest. Dogs are welcome to explore this open desert landscape with you.

Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and owners must clean up after them. There are no formal trails, so this is open walking among the spires. Keep dogs leashed and close when other visitors are around.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and owners must clean up after them. There are no formal trails, so this is open walking among the spires. Keep dogs leashed and close when other visitors are around.

Seasonal closures

The lakebed is fully exposed and bakes in summer, so heat and lack of shade are real risks for dogs. Dispersed camping is limited to 14 days within any 28-day period.

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
Natural Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Trona Pinnacles?

A surreal field of more than 500 tufa spires rising from a dry lakebed near Ridgecrest. Dogs are welcome to explore this open desert landscape with you. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and owners must clean up after them. There are no formal trails, so this is open walking among the spires. Keep dogs leashed and close when other visitors are around.

What is the leash rule at Trona Pinnacles?

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 Trona Pinnacles?

The lakebed is fully exposed and bakes in summer, so heat and lack of shade are real risks for dogs. Dispersed camping is limited to 14 days within any 28-day period.

Are service animals allowed at Trona Pinnacles?

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