The Trona Pinnacles were designated a National Natural Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior in 1968 to preserve one of North America’s most outstanding examples of tufa tower formation.

Camping

• Dispersed camping is allowed on for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation.
• There is no potable water or developed facilities other than a single vault toilet on site.
• Pack out all trash. There are no trash services. In the desert environment, even natural items like orange peels take years to decompose.
• Travel on existing roads and trails. Vegetation in this climate can take decades to recover when crushed by off road driving or parking.
• Camp in campgrounds if available. Using campgrounds reduces the number of vehicles, so that the great views are not blocked.
• Have a great time. The Trona Pinnacles are a great place to explore natural wonders and experience your public lands.

Geology and History

The Pinnacles were formed between 10,000 and 100,000 years ago when Searles Lake formed a link in a chain of interconnected lakes flowing from the Owens Valley to Death Valley. At one point during the Pleistocene, the area was under 640 feet of water.