Rainbow Basin Natural Area
Explore a surreal desert landscape of vibrant, multi-colored badlands and deep canyons. A geological marvel perfect for scenic drives and photography.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Rainbow Basin Natural Area
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a surreal desert landscape of vibrant, multi-colored badlands and deep canyons. A geological marvel perfect for scenic drives and photography.
"The hills are literally painted with different shades of red, yellow, orange, and green. Simply beautiful."
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
The loop road is rough! A 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is best. Avoid RVs and trailers. :car:
🌅 Sunset & Sunrise Views
Catch the most vibrant colors during golden hour. The scenery is truly out of this world! :sunrise:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Scenic Loop Drive
Main loop road
A breathtaking 5-mile drive through multi-colored badlands and deep canyons. Absolutely stunning rock formations!
Vibrant Rock Formations
Throughout the area
Witness incredible geological artistry with rocks painted in shades of red, yellow, orange, and green. A photographer's dream!
Owl Canyon Campground
Within Rainbow Basin
A serene spot for camping amidst the desert beauty, offering access to hiking and exploration. Perfect for stargazing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vehicle Choice is Key
Best Times for Scenery & Solitude
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
The loop road is rough! A 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is best. Avoid RVs and trailers. :car:
🌅 Sunset & Sunrise Views
Catch the most vibrant colors during golden hour. The scenery is truly out of this world!
🥾 Explore Hidden Canyons
Venture off the main road to discover unique geological features and tunnel-like caves. :hiking_boot:
💧 Avoid After Rain
Heavy rain creates deep ruts and flash flood risks. Check conditions before you go.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 High-Clearance Vehicle Needed
The loop road is rough! A 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is best. Avoid RVs and trailers. :car:
🌅 Sunset & Sunrise Views
Catch the most vibrant colors during golden hour. The scenery is truly out of this world!
🥾 Explore Hidden Canyons
Venture off the main road to discover unique geological features and tunnel-like caves. :hiking_boot:
💧 Avoid After Rain
Heavy rain creates deep ruts and flash flood risks. Check conditions before you go.
📸 Photography Paradise
Bring your camera! The unique colors and formations offer incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, otherworldly beauty of Rainbow Basin's multi-colored rock formations and canyons, calling the scenic loop drive one of the best in California. The area is praised for its unique geology and excellent photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. However, many caution that the unpaved loop road is very rough and requires a high-clearance, off-road-capable vehicle, making it inaccessible for standard cars, RVs, or trailers.
"The drive was really pretty. The canyon gets tight, I drive a Ford E350 and was fine, tight but fine and I definitely didn’t have my trailer hooked up. If I did I would not have made it. And it’s a one-way loop so there’s no turning back.
I was there in October, saw 1 other person driving the loop in front of me and that was it."
Kristina Kury
"In my opinion, the loop scenery road requires off road oriented vehicles. I went in my 4x4 right after it rained a lot and there were deep slots the water carved into the road. (Lots of bumps.) Maybe in better weather and aired down tires, you could possibly do it in a normal SUV/car, but I still wouldn't recommend it.
Then again, I have no idea what the conditions are when it's dry and more flat. It would probably be more forgiving, maybe not.
Aside from the road conditions, the area is very beautiful if you're into nature, minerals, and rock formations. Some of the weirdest colors I've seen in rocks and sediment. You need to appreciate it!"
Thomas Chang
"Gorgeous natural canyons and colors. While visiting in the Winter it was not crowded at all. Great place to explore especially just off the road during the 5 mile loop in the basin, lots of hidden canyons and even some tunnel like caves."
SpenSolo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rainbow Basin Natural Area is located about 8 miles north of Barstow, California. From Los Angeles, take I-15 North towards Barstow. Exit onto CA-58 West and then turn north onto Barstow Road. Follow signs for Rainbow Basin. The drive from LA typically takes around 2-3 hours.
No, Rainbow Basin Natural Area is a remote desert location and is not accessible by public transportation. A personal vehicle is required for your visit.
The primary way to explore is via the 5-mile scenic loop drive. However, this road is unpaved and can be rough, requiring a high-clearance vehicle.
It is strongly advised against driving RVs or trailers on the scenic loop road due to its rough and narrow conditions.
There are very limited services within Rainbow Basin. It's essential to fill up your gas tank and bring plenty of water and snacks before you arrive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Rainbow Basin Natural Area is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) area and generally does not have an entrance fee for day use. Camping fees may apply at designated campgrounds like Owl Canyon.
Rainbow Basin Natural Area is open year-round during daylight hours for exploration. There are no set opening or closing times for the general area.
No permit is typically required for general day use or hiking in Rainbow Basin Natural Area. However, if you plan on any specialized activities like rock collecting, it's best to check with the BLM Barstow Field Office.
Yes, camping is available at Owl Canyon Campground within Rainbow Basin. It's a primitive campground, so be prepared for basic facilities.
Campsites at Owl Canyon are typically first-come, first-served. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to secure a spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activities include scenic driving on the loop road, hiking, photography, and camping. The unique geology and colorful landscapes are the main attractions.
Yes, there are opportunities for hiking, especially by exploring off the main loop road into smaller canyons. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and carry plenty of water.
The 5-mile loop road is unpaved and can be very rough, with deep ruts and bumps, particularly after rain. A high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended.
Absolutely! The vibrant, multi-colored rock formations and unique desert landscapes make it a photographer's paradise, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Facilities are very basic. Owl Canyon Campground may have pit toilets, but potable water is not available. You must bring all your own water.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late evening offer the most dramatic lighting, enhancing the vibrant colors of the rock formations. The 'golden hour' truly makes the landscape pop.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert landscapes and canyons. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating interesting rock textures. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The entire scenic loop offers stunning views, but keep an eye out for areas where the colors are most intense. Exploring short side canyons can reveal unique photographic opportunities.
The primary subjects are the multi-colored sedimentary rock formations, deep canyons, and the vast desert vistas. The textures and patterns in the rocks are also fascinating.
While exploring off-road can yield great shots, always be aware of your surroundings. Stick to established paths where possible and be mindful of unstable terrain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as the desert environment can be harsh. Encourage kids to look for interesting rock shapes and colors. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural environment itself is the playground. Camping at Owl Canyon Campground can be a memorable experience for families who enjoy the outdoors, offering a chance for stargazing and campfire stories.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Bring a variety of lenses, from wide-angle for sweeping vistas to macro for intricate rock details. A tripod is invaluable for low-light photography during dawn and dusk. Be prepared to explore off the main road (safely!) to find hidden canyons and unique perspectives. The sheer geological diversity ensures that every turn offers a new photographic subject.
+1🚗 Road Trippers & Adventure Seekers
+1This is an ideal stop for travelers seeking a more rugged and less-developed natural experience. It’s a place to stretch your legs, marvel at unique geological formations, and capture some truly memorable photos. Just ensure your vehicle is up for the task, and you're prepared with essentials like water and fuel.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Scenic Loop
High-clearance, off-road-oriented vehicles are strongly recommended. While some reviewers with standard SUVs managed in dry conditions, they still noted it was challenging. Larger vehicles like RVs, motorhomes, and those towing trailers should avoid this loop entirely, as there are limited opportunities to turn around, and the terrain can be unforgiving.
If you're driving a standard car, consider parking at the entrance and walking or exploring the immediate vicinity on foot. For those with appropriate vehicles, airing down tires can significantly improve the ride quality. Always check local conditions before heading out, as recent weather can drastically alter the road's state.
Geological Wonders and Ancient History
+1The landscape itself is a testament to the forces of erosion, with deep canyons, hoodoos, and intricate patterns carved into the soft rock. This area is also a significant paleontological site. Fossils found here date back to the Pleistocene epoch, including remains of ancient camels, three-toed horses, dire wolves, saber-toothed cats, mastodons, and pygmy rhinos.
For those interested in geology and paleontology, Rainbow Basin offers a unique opportunity to witness these natural wonders firsthand. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the vastness of geological time and the ancient life that once roamed this desert landscape.
Camping and Stargazing
Stargazing at Rainbow Basin is exceptional due to its remote location and minimal light pollution. On a clear night, the sky is ablaze with stars, offering a breathtaking celestial display. Campers often report seeing the Milky Way in all its glory.
Remember that Owl Canyon is a basic campground. Facilities are minimal, so come prepared with all your own supplies, including water, food, and camping gear. It's a great base for exploring the area during the day and enjoying the serene desert nights.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit