The BLM plans public safety measures for 2026 King of the Hammers race
California
Media Contact
BLM Office:
BARSTOW, Calif. — The Bureau of Land Management will temporarily close public lands in the Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area in San Bernardino County from Jan. 29–Feb. 7, 2026, during the annual King of the Hammers desert race event. The race is authorized by a BLM Special Recreation Permit, and the temporary closure is necessary for public safety and to provide an enhanced recreation experience for event participants and spectators.
Approximately 81,000 acres of the Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area will be closed during the event, while 46,000 acres remain open to the public. The BLM approved a five-year closure for 10 days annually through 2027. During closures, the area is reserved exclusively for registered race participants, spectators, and officials.
Recreation areas nearby will remain open to the public including the Ord-Rodman Limited Use Area and Stoddard Valley Off-highway Vehicle Area. Information and a map of the closure area for the 2026 race event will be posted at the main entry points into the Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area and available for viewing at the BLM’s California Desert District Office and Barstow Field Office.
Anyone in violation of the temporary closure order may face fines, imprisonment, or both. State or local officials may also impose penalties for violations of California law.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.