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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Trilobite Wilderness

Amboy, California · San Bernardino County

The Trilobite Wilderness covers the Marble Mountains, a narrow volcanic range extending 12 miles in a northwest-southwest direction. Alternating dark brown and light brown striations have been tilted by geologic processes and give a marbled appearance to the range. Through the center, several yellowish sandstone peaks …

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About Trilobite Wilderness

The Trilobite Wilderness covers the Marble Mountains, a narrow volcanic range extending 12 miles in a northwest-southwest direction. Alternating dark brown and light brown striations have been tilted by geologic processes and give a marbled appearance to the range. Through the center, several yellowish sandstone peaks with long talus slopes are prominent. Trending eastward from the mountain range, the wilderness includes low rolling hills and sloping bajadas. Wildlife is also typical for the Mojave Desert. The area does have a very stable permanent population of bighorn sheep last estimated at around 150, and the eastern portion of the wilderness provides critical habitat for the threatened desert tortoise. The wilderness is located in the central portion of the sector and consists of 37,308 acres. It is bordered by a gas pipeline on the north, Kelbaker Road on the west, and a few BLM routes to the south.

How to Get There

From Needles, CA, take I-40 west approx. 65 miles to Kelbaker Road. Exit southbound on Kelbaker Road and drive approx. 1.5 miles to BLM Route NS203-Needles to Ludlow Truck Trail. Turn left on NS203 and travel approx. 1 mile. A wilderness kiosk sign will be on your right hand side.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Trilobite Wilderness

Heading to Trilobite Wilderness? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Trilobite Wilderness?

No central reservation system listed for Trilobite Wilderness. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/13500) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Trilobite Wilderness?

From Needles, CA, take I-40 west approx. 65 miles to Kelbaker Road. Exit southbound on Kelbaker Road and drive approx. 1.5 miles to BLM Route NS203-Needles to Ludlow Truck Trail. Turn left on NS203 and travel approx. 1 mile. A wilderness kiosk sign will be on your right hand side.

How do I contact Trilobite Wilderness?

You can reach the park at phone: 760-326-7000 or email: BLM_CA_Web_NE@blm.gov.