The Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area is located near Cantil. It lies on the western edge of the Mojave Desert in eastern Kern County, California. It spans over 26,000 acres of checkerboard terrain. This area blends red cliffs, sandy washes, and rolling hills. As California’s newest OHV-focused state park, Onyx Ranch delivers expansive off-road freedom, uncrowded trails, and sweeping desert vistas.
What Makes Onyx Ranch SVRA Unique
Onyx Ranch is the only SVRA adjacent to both Bureau of Land Management and private holdings, creating seamless open-range riding. Elevations vary dramatically—from 2,200 to over 6,400 feet—offering occasional snowy winter scenes and cooler fall riding. More than 100 miles of trails support ATVs, dirt bikes, side-by-sides, Jeeps, and trucks. Best of all, this park is open 24/7 year-round, with the prime riding season from October through April, when cooler temperatures and dust-free conditions elevate the experience.
Top Activities & Amenities
Off‑Road Vehicle Trails & OHV Courses
The main draw is the extensive OHV trail network, featuring winding single track, sandy washes, hardpack roads, and rocky hill climbs. Jawbone Canyon and Dove Springs are open spaces where riders of every skill level can spread out. While there’s no formal training course, DIY practice areas abound—and free ATVs safety classes are available statewide.
Camping Sites & Self‑Contained Overnight
Primitive camping is allowed throughout the area—camp anywhere along approved roads. There are no developed loops or hookups, but sites near Jawbone Canyon Road feature pit toilets and water stations at the nearby Jawbone Canyon Store. RVs and groups are welcome, but self-sufficiency is key.
Picnic & Group Facilities
Pull off at vista overlooks and flat wash areas to set up picnics or shade tents. No dedicated group ramadas exist yet, but informal group camping is common in Jawbone Canyon, where fire rings may be used when local fire regulations allow.
Restrooms, Showers & Dump Station
Pit toilets are found at staging areas along the main trails. No showers, no dump station, and no electric hookups—riders should prepare accordingly and use the nearby store for water resupply.
Fire Rings & Water Stations
Where allowed, small campfires are permitted in portable fire rings. Existing water spigots at access points should be treated for drinking or filtered. Trash receptacles and information kiosks at trailheads provide maps and safety bulletins.
Hiking, Wildlife Viewing & Equestrian Trails
Interspersed among OHV routes are user-created hiking spurs offering desert wildflower shows in spring. Wildlife sightings include coyotes, jackrabbits, hawks, and roadrunners. Horseback riders can find informal routes or camp with their horses, using corrals and hitch lines.
Fishing & Hunting
No waters are located within the SVRA itself; however, nearby BLM canyons offer occasional seasonal fishing and small-game hunting. Check local regulations for access and permit requirements.
Visitor Center & Interpretive Programs
While Onyx Ranch lacks a park-run visitor center, informational kiosks at trailheads provide maps and safety tips. Park managers rotate interpretive programs and free OHV safety trainings statewide—check the California State Parks OHV division schedule.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Fees & Permits: No day-use, riding, or camping fees. Off-highway stickers required (resident or non‑resident as applicable).
- Seasonal Closures: Red-sticker riding is allowed October 1–April 30; fire closure orders may be posted during high-risk seasons.
- Water & Services: No water hookups—bring 5 gallons per person, or refill at Jawbone Canyon Store. Pit toilets only.
- Campsites: Primitive, spread-out camping—pack out everything and use portable fire rings only if open.
- Amenities: Trash receptacles and kiosks at trailheads only. No showers or dump stations on-site.
- Safety Gear: Helmet, spark arrestor required; sound limit 96 dB. OHV training encouraged.
- Pets: Leashed pets allowed; watch local wildlife and keep dogs under control.
- Cell Service: Patchy; download maps beforehand and let someone know your itinerary.
Local Insight & Hidden Gem
For spectacular sunrise shots, take the ride up to the 6,400-foot highpoint before dawn—watch the light hit the Sierra and desert basin below. Try weekday mornings to avoid crowds and dust, then cruise into Jawbone Canyon store for fresh coffee and maps. In spring, keep your eyes open for desert wildflowers along the sandy washes. And if you’d like a quieter overnight, head west onto adjacent BLM land and set up camp away from main trails—perfect for a star-filled sky and peaceful desert night.