The Amargosa Big Dune is a popular spot for local, Southern Nevada off-roaders. It is similar in size as the Sand Mountain Dunes near Fallon, at about 5 square miles, and sees fewer visitors. This is a year-round OHV area, although the summer temperatures may go well above 110 degrees. There are no toilet or water facilities, and dispersed camping is allowed.
The dunes are one of the three “Singing Sand” dune areas in Nevada. This is an amazing natural phenomena caused by specific sand particles and arid conditions, where the dunes themselves omit a roaring or booming sound.
The dunes are home to a rare beetle, called the Big Dune Beetle, along with several other rare beetle species and the Desert Tortoise. The Bureau of Land Management has designated the dunes as an Area of Critical Environment Concern, ACEC, and has set aside a 5-acre plot to protect critical habitat. Please watch for wildlife and respect signs bordering this area.
Visit TravelNevada's website for more information on Big Dune.
Click Here to see the Nevada OHV Program's information on Big Dune and surrounding riding areas.
RiderPlanet.com's Big Dune webpage.
The Bureau of Land Management has a Recreation Webpage for the Amargosa Big Dune area.
Download map files for your own use.
LATITUDE/LONGITUDE: 36.647378, -116.584977
From US-95 in Amargosa Valley, turn west onto Valley View Road and drive about 2 miles. Trailhead is down a dirt road to the right, at the base of the dune area. Big Dune Road is a few miles farther to the north along Hwy 95. This takes you to the western side of the dune area.
Dispersed camping is allowed, but the area has no facilities. Use caution when driving and parking near the dune area.
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