Painted Rock | California
The sandstone formation at Painted Rock has long drawn the attention of Carrizo Plain National Monument visitors. About 3,000 - 4,000 years ago, Native Americans began to paint their sacred images with the alcove of the rock. Not surpisingly, the power of this place continues to enthrall, and it still receives many visitors today. Spiritual leaders and other tribal members created the rock paintings as an expression of their cultural and religious beliefs. Please help us protect Painted Rock, a cultural resource of the American Indians of California and a special place for future generations of people to enjoy and benefit. Please do not touch, climb, or walk on any part of the rock to help preserve it. Tread carefully while visiting the site and do not distrub or collect artifacts, remove plants, or distrub the wildlife. Reservations are required to visit Painted Rock, if visiting during self-guided tour season, ensure you get a gate code from www.recreation.gov prior to visiting the monument..
Get permits for Painted Rock Guided and Self-Guided Tours
Download the Carrizo Plain National Monument Recreation Map and Guide
Photos
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
There is no cell phone reception at this site.
Parking is along the gravel and dirt loop at the trailhead. The terrain is generally flat but somewhat uneven and may pose challenges for some people with limited mobility.
A double vault toilet is located at the start of the loop, at the northwest corner of the trailhead. It sits on a concrete pad next in dirt and grass, and erosion may create a lip between the uneven surrounding surface and the concrete. There is no potable water.
To the south of the toilet are 4 concrete and 2 metal and wood picnic tables. All have recessed legs that can accommodate wheelchair users.
The entrance to Painted Rock Trail is at the south end of the loop, with a trail marker and a partially shaded information kiosk next to it. The distance from the trailhead to the Painted Rock sandstone formation and back is 1.5 miles.
Near the entrance, the trail is about 4 feet wide with log bumpers on either side. The surface of dirt and grass is uneven, and the first part of the trail also has a steep slope. After about 0.25 miles, the trail becomes wider and flatter, but it remains uneven with some cross-slope at the edges.
Descriptions and photos uploaded June 2026. Please note that actual on-the-ground conditions may vary due to natural events (e.g., weather, wildfires, erosion), normal wear and tear, or site improvements.
Contact Us
Activities
Addresses
Directions
Once on Carrizo Plain National Monument, continue on Soda Lake Road until you arrive at sign for Goodwin Education Center, turn at sign and contine for 1/2 mile to the education center. Entrance for Painted Rock Road is behind the education center, you must have a reservation from www.recreation.gov to visit Painted Rock. Gate code is required for self-guided tours and is available from www.recreation.gov after you make your reservation. No gate code required for guided tours.
Fees
No admission fee, but reservation fee charged by Recreation.gov
