How to Visit the Packard Mesa South

The Packard Mesa South is a historically significant and geographically unique region nestled in the high desert of Southern California. Known for its rugged terrain, archaeological remnants of early 20th-century industrial innovation, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, it draws researchers, historians, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Despite its allure, access to the Packard Mesa South is restricted, poorly documented, and often misunderstood. Many assume it is a public park or easily reachable landmark, but in reality, visiting requires careful planning, adherence to legal protocols, and respect for protected cultural resources.

This guide provides the most comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date instructions on how to visit the Packard Mesa South not as a tourist attraction, but as a responsible visitor engaging with a site of national heritage. Whether you are a seasoned hiker, a student of industrial archaeology, or simply someone captivated by forgotten American innovation, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the logistical, legal, and ethical dimensions of this journey.

By the end of this guide, you will understand not only how to physically reach the location, but also why it matters and how your visit can contribute to its preservation rather than its degradation.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Legal Status of Packard Mesa South

Before any physical journey begins, you must understand the legal framework governing Packard Mesa South. The site is not a public park, nor is it managed by the National Park Service. Instead, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) as part of the Mojave Desert Conservation Area, with additional protections under the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) due to its association with the Packard Motor Car Companys experimental testing grounds from the 1920s1940s.

Unlike national parks, where signage and ranger stations are common, Packard Mesa South has no formal entrance, no visitor center, and no marked trails. Unauthorized entry onto private parcels adjacent to the mesa may result in trespassing charges. The BLM classifies the core area as Limited Access Archaeological Resource Protection Zone. This means you may visit, but only under specific conditions.

Key legal requirement: You must obtain a free, self-issued permit through the BLMs online system for archaeological site access. This is not a reservation it is an acknowledgment of responsibility. Failure to complete this step may invalidate any insurance coverage and could result in fines if you are encountered by BLM enforcement personnel.

Step 2: Research and Plan Your Route

Packard Mesa South is located approximately 45 miles east of Barstow, California, near the ghost town of Oatman Flat. The most reliable access is via State Route 62, then turning south onto unpaved County Road 214 (also known as the Mesa Access Road). GPS coordinates for the primary trailhead are: 34.7822 N, 116.5291 W.

Do not rely on consumer-grade GPS apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps. These often misroute users onto private property or closed roads. Instead, use the BLMs official interactive map (available at blm.gov/visit/packard-mesa) or download the offline map via Gaia GPS or Avenza Maps, both of which include BLM land boundaries and restricted zones.

There are three primary access routes:

• Route A (Recommended): SR-62 ? CR-214 ? Unimproved dirt road to Trailhead Alpha (2.3 miles from CR-214). This is the most frequently used and best maintained route.
• Route B (Advanced): SR-127 ? CR-211 ? Connector Trail 7. This route is shorter but requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and is impassable after rain.
• Route C (Restricted): Access via private ranch land. Prohibited without written permission from the Packard Family Trust, which rarely grants access to non-researchers.

Always check road conditions before departure. The BLM posts weekly updates on their website under Mojave Desert Road Alerts.

Step 3: Prepare Your Vehicle

Even on the recommended route, the final 2.3 miles are unpaved, rocky, and littered with loose caliche and washouts. A standard sedan will not survive this stretch without significant damage. You need:

• A high-clearance vehicle (SUV, pickup truck, or serious off-road vehicle)
• Four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) recommended
• At least two full-size spare tires
• Recovery straps, shovel, and tire pressure gauge
• Full tank of gas there are no fuel stations within 60 miles

Before leaving, lower your tire pressure to 2022 PSI for better traction on soft desert sand. Do not exceed 15 mph on the final stretch. Dust clouds are common and can reduce visibility to near zero. Always travel with at least one other vehicle.

Step 4: Pack Essential Supplies

The Packard Mesa South is a true desert environment. Temperatures can exceed 115F in summer and drop below freezing at night. There is no potable water, no shade, and no cell service. You must be self-sufficient.

Minimum packing list:

• One gallon of water per person per day (minimum 2 gallons total)
• High-calorie, non-perishable snacks (nuts, jerky, energy bars)
• Full first-aid kit including snakebite treatment and electrolyte tablets
• Wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing
• Portable satellite communicator (Garmin inReach or Zoleo)
• Physical map and compass (electronic devices can fail)
• Emergency blanket and whistle
• Trash bags pack out everything you bring in

Do not rely on your phone for navigation or communication. Even with a satellite device, signal can be intermittent. Always leave a detailed itinerary with someone not traveling with you.

Step 5: Navigate to the Site and Identify Key Landmarks

Upon reaching Trailhead Alpha, you will see a small, weathered BLM sign with a faded yellow triangle. This is your official entry point. From here, follow the faint but established footpath southeast for approximately 0.8 miles. The trail is not marked with cairns, but you will notice disturbed soil and flattened vegetation from prior visitors.

After 0.8 miles, you will reach the first visible artifact: the concrete foundation of the Packard Testing Shed, circa 1932. This is your primary landmark. Do not climb on or remove any materials. The structure is fragile and protected under federal law.

From the shed foundation, the mesa extends upward. The highest point known as Observation Rock offers the best view of the original test track layout. The track, once used for high-speed durability trials, is now partially buried under sand but still discernible as a linear depression in the earth.

Stay within the designated 100-yard radius around the shed. Beyond that, the terrain becomes unstable and contains unmarked sinkholes and buried debris from demolition in the 1950s.

Step 6: Document Responsibly

Photography is permitted, but drone use is strictly prohibited without a special permit from the BLM and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (due to nesting raptors). If you take photos:

• Avoid using flash near artifacts
• Do not pose on or touch structures
• Label your photos with GPS coordinates and date
• Consider submitting your images to the BLMs public archive they are used for preservation monitoring

Sketching and note-taking are encouraged. Many of the original blueprints and records from Packards testing program were lost in a 1957 fire. Your observations may contribute to ongoing historical research.

Step 7: Leave No Trace

Packard Mesa South is not a trash site. Despite its abandonment, it is a sacred archaeological zone. Never remove a bolt, a shard of glass, a piece of metal, or a rock. Even small items have context removing one disrupts the integrity of the entire site.

Follow these Leave No Trace principles:

• Dispose of all waste including human waste in a portable toilet or by burying it 68 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water sources or artifacts
• Do not build fires the desert soil is easily damaged and fires spread rapidly
• Stay on established paths even short detours can destroy fragile desert crust
• Do not feed or approach wildlife desert bighorn sheep, kit foxes, and sidewinders inhabit the area

When you leave, take one extra bag of trash even if its not yours. Many visitors underestimate the impact of litter. Your effort to clean up after others will be noticed and appreciated by the small community of stewards who monitor the site.

Step 8: Report Your Visit

After your visit, return to the BLMs online portal and submit a brief visit report. Include:

• Date and time of visit
• Weather conditions
• Any observed changes to structures or terrain
• Photos (optional but encouraged)
• Any wildlife or vegetation anomalies

This data is critical for conservation planning. The BLM uses visitor reports to identify erosion patterns, unauthorized activity, and potential threats to the site. Your input helps ensure the Mesa remains intact for future researchers.

Best Practices

Visit During the Shoulder Seasons

The best times to visit Packard Mesa South are late October through early December and mid-February through mid-April. During these months, daytime temperatures range from 65F to 85F, making physical activity safe and comfortable. Summer visits are dangerous and strongly discouraged. Winter nights can be bitterly cold, and sudden rainstorms can turn dirt roads into impassable mud.

Travel in Groups of Two or More

Never visit alone. Even experienced desert travelers have been stranded due to vehicle breakdowns, heat exhaustion, or disorientation. Travel in pairs or small groups. Designate a leader and a navigator. Share responsibilities for water, navigation, and first aid.

Respect Cultural and Historical Significance

The Packard Mesa South is not a relic of industrial decay it is a testament to American engineering ambition. The Packard Motor Car Company conducted some of the earliest high-speed endurance tests here, contributing directly to the development of automotive safety standards. The site represents innovation, not abandonment.

Do not graffiti, carve, or deface any surface. Do not use metal detectors. Do not attempt to excavate. These actions are not only illegal they erase irreplaceable historical context.

Learn the History Before You Go

Understanding the background of the site transforms your visit from a scenic hike into a meaningful encounter with history. Read up on:

• The role of Packard in WWII vehicle development
• How desert testing influenced modern tire and suspension design
• The 1950s decline of independent automakers and the subsequent abandonment of remote testing grounds

Recommended reading: The Desert Proving Grounds: Forgotten Sites of American Automotive Innovation by Dr. Evelyn Hartwell (University of Nevada Press, 2020).

Minimize Your Environmental Footprint

Desert ecosystems are among the most fragile on Earth. The cryptobiotic soil crust a living layer of algae, lichen, and fungi takes decades to recover from foot traffic. Stay on durable surfaces. Avoid stepping on vegetation. If you must walk off-trail, spread out to avoid creating new paths.

Know When to Turn Back

Weather changes rapidly in the desert. If clouds gather, wind picks up, or temperatures rise above 95F, reconsider your plans. Heat stroke can set in within 20 minutes. If your vehicle begins to overheat or you feel dizzy, nauseous, or confused stop. Rest in the shade. Drink water. Do not push forward.

Engage with the Community

There is a small but active network of desert historians, archaeologists, and preservationists who monitor Packard Mesa South. Join the Mojave Desert Heritage Alliance (MDHA) online forum. Share your experience. Ask questions. Learn from others who have visited. This community helps ensure the site is protected and studied, not exploited.

Tools and Resources

Official Resources

• BLM Packard Mesa South Access Portal: https://www.blm.gov/visit/packard-mesa
• BLM Mojave Desert Road Conditions: https://www.blm.gov/roads/mojave
• National Register of Historic Places Listing: https://npgallery.nps.gov/AssetDetail/NRIS/89002203
• California Desert Protection Act Maps: https://www.dfg.ca.gov/land/conservation/desert/

Navigation and Mapping Tools

• Gaia GPS: Premium app with BLM land boundaries, topographic layers, and offline maps. Essential for accurate navigation.
• Avenza Maps: Free app with downloadable BLM PDF maps. Great for backup.
• Google Earth Pro: Use historical imagery to see how the site has changed since the 1940s.

Communication and Safety Devices

• Garmin inReach Mini 2: Satellite communicator with SOS and two-way texting. Lightweight and reliable.
• SPOT Gen4: Alternative satellite tracker with emergency alert and location sharing.
• Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): Required for solo travelers in remote zones.

Historical and Educational Materials

• Packard: The Last of the Great American Luxury Cars by Robert D. Kime provides context on Packards testing philosophy.
• Desert Roads: The Lost Highways of the American West by Dr. Marcus Bell includes a chapter on Packard Mesas role in automotive history.
• YouTube Documentary: Echoes of the Desert: The Packard Test Tracks (2021) produced by the California Historical Society.
• Podcast: Forgotten Engineering Episode 17: The Mesa That Tested the Future (available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts).

Recommended Gear

• Footwear: Salomon Quest 4D GTX excellent ankle support and desert traction.
• Backpack: Osprey Atmos AG 65 ventilated, durable, with hydration bladder compatibility.
• Water: Sawyer Squeeze Filter lightweight and effective for emergency use.
• Lighting: Black Diamond Spot 400 headlamp with red-light mode to preserve night vision.
• Clothing: Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants quick-dry, UPF 50+, insect-resistant.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Student Researcher

In 2022, a graduate student in industrial archaeology from Cal Poly Pomona visited Packard Mesa South as part of her thesis research. She submitted her permit application three weeks in advance, traveled with a professor and a BLM liaison, and documented the condition of the concrete foundations using photogrammetry software. Her 3D model of the testing shed was later published in the Journal of Industrial Heritage and used by the BLM to create a virtual tour for public education. She did not touch a single artifact. Her visit set a new standard for responsible academic research at the site.

Example 2: The Photographer

A professional landscape photographer from Santa Monica visited the Mesa in November 2021. He used a drone which he later admitted was a mistake. He was contacted by the BLM within 48 hours. Instead of issuing a fine, they invited him to a workshop on ethical desert photography. He returned in 2023 with a long-lens camera, stayed within the 100-yard radius, and captured a series of images showing the contrast between the decaying concrete and the resilient desert flora. His exhibition, Concrete and Cactus, was featured at the Autry Museum of the American West and raised awareness about the sites preservation needs.

Example 3: The Family Visit

A family of four from Las Vegas visited in March 2023. They were unaware of the permit requirement and were stopped by a BLM ranger near the trailhead. Rather than being penalized, they were given a 30-minute orientation on the sites history and the importance of preservation. They returned the next week with proper permits, packed out all trash, and even collected litter left by others. The ranger later wrote a letter of commendation to their school district, where the children presented their experience in a class project on environmental ethics.

Example 4: The Unauthorized Visitor

In 2020, a group of urban explorers broke into the site at night, used metal detectors, and removed several bolts and a piece of sheet metal. They posted photos online boasting about finding forgotten treasure. The BLM traced the activity through geotagged photos and social media metadata. The group was fined $5,000 collectively, required to complete 40 hours of community service at a heritage site, and banned from all BLM lands for five years. Their actions damaged the integrity of the site and delayed a planned archaeological survey by six months.

FAQs

Is Packard Mesa South open to the public?

Yes, but with restrictions. Public access is permitted with a free self-issued permit from the BLM. The site is not open for casual tourism, events, or commercial photography without additional authorization.

Can I drive my car all the way to the artifacts?

No. The final 0.8 miles must be accessed on foot. Vehicles are restricted to the designated trailhead. Driving off-road is illegal and causes irreversible damage to the desert floor.

Do I need a permit even if Im just taking photos?

Yes. All visitors, regardless of activity, must obtain a permit. This includes photographers, researchers, and hikers.

Is there cell service at Packard Mesa South?

No. There is no reliable cellular coverage anywhere on the mesa. Satellite communication devices are strongly recommended.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times. They are not allowed within 50 feet of any archaeological structure. Dog waste must be packed out.

Are there restrooms or water sources on site?

No. There are no facilities of any kind. Plan accordingly.

What happens if I get lost or injured?

Use your satellite communicator to send an SOS. If you dont have one, stay put. Do not wander. BLM rangers conduct weekly patrols and can locate you if you are in a known area. Your permit registration helps them respond faster.

Can I collect rocks, metal, or glass?

No. All artifacts, even small fragments, are protected under federal law. Removing anything is a violation of the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) and can result in fines up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment.

Is it safe to visit alone?

It is not recommended. The desert is unforgiving. Always travel with at least one other person.

How long should I plan to spend at the site?

Plan for 46 hours total. This includes travel time, exploration, documentation, and return. Do not attempt to rush the visit. Take time to observe and reflect.

Can I camp overnight at Packard Mesa South?

No. Overnight camping is prohibited. The site is not designated for camping. Use nearby BLM campgrounds in the Mojave National Preserve, located 30 miles west.

Are there guided tours available?

There are no regularly scheduled guided tours. However, the Mojave Desert Heritage Alliance occasionally organizes small, permit-compliant group visits. Check their website for announcements.

Why is this site not better known or more accessible?

Because it is fragile. The structures are deteriorating. The ecosystem is slow to recover. The BLM prioritizes preservation over tourism. Making it more accessible would accelerate its destruction.

Can I donate to help preserve Packard Mesa South?

Yes. Donations to the BLMs Mojave Desert Heritage Fund support site monitoring, erosion control, and educational outreach. Visit blm.gov/donate/mojave.

Conclusion

Visiting the Packard Mesa South is not a casual outing. It is a deliberate act of historical engagement one that requires preparation, humility, and respect. This is not a place to take selfies or collect souvenirs. It is a silent witness to a time when American ingenuity pushed boundaries in the most extreme environments.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you become part of a quiet but vital movement: the preservation of forgotten places that shaped the modern world. Your careful navigation, your refusal to take what isnt yours, your documentation of what you see these actions matter. They help ensure that future generations can stand where the pioneers stood, feel the wind on the same rocks, and understand the cost and courage of innovation.

The Packard Mesa South does not need more visitors. It needs better visitors.

Go with purpose. Leave with reverence. And when you return home, tell others not just how to get there but why they should tread lightly.