About Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area
Know Before You GoThis area is rugged and remote. Be prepared for backcountry travel.There is no cell phone signal and few, if any, other people nearby.Black Rock country is a land of extremes—the weather can be hot and sunny one day and cold and snowy the next.Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry additional water, food, and clothing.High-clearance vehicles with off-road tires (at least 6-ply) and spare tires are recommended.Motorized use is limited to designated routes only, except for the unvegetated, flat surface of the Black Rock Desert Playa.Contact the local office for current road and playa conditions, travel information, and fire restrictions.Find more tips in the Safety Handout and Visitor HandoutRecreationA variety of recreational opportunities are present within the NCA suitable for visitors of all experience levels.Any commercial, competitive, and organized events and activities will need a Special Recreation Permit (SRP) issued by the local field office -Black Rock Field Office.CampingEnjoy camping and star-gazing at one of the cowboy cabins at Steven's Camp, Massacre Ranch, or Soldier Meadows.Designated campsites can be found in the Soldier Meadows ACEC and in High Rock Canyon. Dispersed camping is allowed everywhere else.Please note that fires are not allowed directly on the floor of the Black Rock Playa. BicyclingBicycling is allowed everywhere except in designated Wilderness Areas. Carry plenty of water as it can be a long walk back if you have mechanical problems. HikingHiking is a popular activity all around the NCA. There are dramatic landscapes, including ten associated wilderness areas. There is only one designated hiking trail in the NCA, which is north from Stevens Camp along the Applegate Trail.Historic TrailsThe Applegate and Nobles Trails have been marked with signs containing emigrant trail diary entries from each location. Visitors enjoy traveling between markers, re-living the route of the early emigrants. Occasional tr
