Big Maria Mountains Wilderness Area

Big Maria Mountains Wilderness Area spans nearly 48,000 acres of federally protected backcountry in California, managed by the Bureau of Land Management. This is primitive desert wilderness—no roads, motors, or mechanized travel are permitted. Visitors come here for backcountry hiking and backpacking in a genuinely remote setting where solitude is the draw. The landscape is rugged and untracked; this is not a place of marked trails or developed infrastructure.

Visiting requires full commitment to Leave No Trace principles and self-sufficiency. Water, shade, and rescue services are not available. Access and seasonal conditions depend entirely on your own research and preparation—contact the BLM office managing the area before you go. Desert heat and exposure are serious hazards. This wilderness rewards experienced backcountry travelers who come ready for isolation and self-reliance.