Palen/McCoy Wilderness Area

Palen/McCoy Wilderness Area spans nearly a quarter-million acres of federally protected backcountry in California, managed by the Bureau of Land Management. This is primitive desert and mountain terrain where motorized travel, mechanized equipment, and roads are prohibited—you'll find genuine solitude and untracked landscape open only to foot and pack stock travel.

The area draws hikers and backpackers seeking remote wilderness experience in a non-motorized setting. Because it is a federally designated Wilderness, all visitors must observe strict Leave No Trace principles: pack out what you pack in, camp away from water sources, use established campsites where they exist, and travel lightly on the land. There are no maintained trails, facilities, or services within the wilderness boundary.

Access is limited and challenging; plan to enter on foot from trailheads outside the wilderness boundary and be prepared for self-sufficient backcountry travel. Spring and fall typically offer the most favorable conditions, though winter can bring severe weather and summer heat in the desert portions. This is a destination for experienced wilderness travelers comfortable with navigation, self-rescue, and minimal infrastructure.