DUNE SEASON IS HERE – ARE YOU READY?

The dunes are calling—the season is here. Whether you’re gearing up for your first foray or you’re a seasoned “duner” dusting off after the off-season, now’s the time to get ready. If you’re new (or even just looking for a refresher), here’s your go-to guide for having fun and staying safe.

1. Gear & Rig Prep: Built for Sand

Before you head out, your vehicle and gear should be dialed in. Don’t wait until you’re stuck in the middle of the dunes.

Vehicle & Mechanical Prep

• Fluids & filters: Change engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and gear oil as needed. Make sure air filters are clean (or swapped) — sand is brutal on intake systems.
• Cooling system: Inspect hoses, clamps, radiator, and fan. Make sure your cooling system is in top condition; overheating in deep sand is common.
• Suspension & steering: Check all joints, bushings, tie rods, and shocks. Too much play or worn parts will bite you in the dunes.
• Drivetrain & axles: Inspect CV boots, U-joints, and driveshafts. Tighten or replace anything suspect.
• Tires & pressure: Start with tires in good condition. Invest in a reliable pressure gauge and an inflator/deflator that works under load. For many dunes, run 10–15 psi (or even lower, depending on tire, load, and terrain) — but know your vehicle’s limits.
• Spare parts & tools: Bring belts, hoses, spare fluids, a basic tool kit, zip ties, Duct Tape, fuses, hose clamps, and a tire repair kit.
• Recovery gear:
   • Tow straps or soft shackles rated for your weight class
   • Snatch block (if you carry a winch)
   • Shackles (e.g. bow shackles, soft shackles)
   • Shovel (collapsible is fine)
   • Traction boards (e.g. MaxTrax, TREDs)
   • Air compressor (12V or high-power)
   • Recovery gloves
   • Jack (preferably a high-lift jack or bottle jack rated for your vehicle)
• Navigation & communication:
   • GPS (dedicated off-road GPS or an off-road app)
   • Topographic maps or offline mapping
   • Two-way radios or spot trackers
   • A reliable cell phone, with power banks or solar charger
• Safety & personal gear:
   • Helmet (if on a buggy, UTV, or ATV)
   • Seat belts or harnesses
   • Fire extinguisher (rated and accessible)
   • First aid kit
   • Sun protection: SPF, sunglasses or goggles, buff or face mask, hats
   • Gloves (riding and general)
   • Layers of clothing (the desert can be hot by day and chilly at night)
   • Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries

Before leaving, do a systems check: test your lights, 4WD engagement, brakes, and differential locks.

2. Safety First — Know the Dune Environment

Having a capable rig is only part of the equation. You also need to be smart and prepared for what the dunes throw at you.

General Safety Principles

• Never travel alone: Always dune with at least one other vehicle. Deep dunes are vast — if you break down, help may not find you quickly.
• Carry extra water: You may get stuck or lose time; dehydration is a real risk.
• Temperature swings: Daytime can be scorching; nights in some dunes (like Imperial) can drop to the 40s or below mid-season. Pack layers.
• Use GPS / navigation aids: Sand dunes can be disorienting. Use GPS and bring backups like paper maps or offline mapping.
• Watch for hidden hazards: Uneven sand, “hard-pack” transitions, soft blow-outs, vegetation, soft dunes, and drop-offs can sneak up.
• Line-of-sight & communication: Keep visual via radio or signals. In busy areas, anticipate others crossing your path.
• Speed & control: High speeds can lead to loss of control in soft sand. Drive to conditions.
• Emergency signaling: Carry flares, signal panels, or devices (e.g. PLBs, satellite messengers) if you get stranded in remote terrain.
• Stay aware of closure rules: The dunes are managed by agencies (e.g. BLM at Imperial). Stay updated on forbidden zones, seasonal closures, or sensitive habitat areas.

3. Rules, Permits & Regulations — Know the Boundaries

It’s not just about safety — you also need to obey the rules. Getting cited or impounded ruins a great day in the dunes.

• Use permits: In many dune areas (like Imperial), you must have a valid permit to recreate.
• Vehicle registration & compliance: Your OHV (Off Highway Vehicle) needs to be properly registered. Carry registration documents or copies.
• Sticker requirements:
   • In California, OHVs often require a Red or Green Sticker (depending on classification).
   • Non-California residents may need a nonresident OHV sticker or permit.
• Flags & whip masts: All OHVs must have a whip mast with a 6″ × 12″ red or orange flag. The mast must reach at least 8 ft above ground level.
• Respect boundary rules:
   • Observe closed zones and no-go areas (e.g. habitat protection zones, dunes closures)
   • Know speed limits or “slow zones”
   • Stay off vegetation and prohibited surfaces
   • Follow “stay to the trails” where applicable
• Environmental & wildlife protections: Some dunes have endangered species or habitat protections. Know your area’s regulations.
• Legal consequences: Violations can lead to fines, vehicle impoundment, or bans from the area.

4. Camping Etiquette & Dune Culture

Dunes aren’t just about day rides — camping is part of the experience. But good manners go a long way.

Camp Setup & Leave-No-Trace

• Plan your layout: Set up your camp away from the busiest trails but still within reach for launch.
• Wind & sand protection: Use windbreaks, camp walls, or blocking vehicles to reduce sand drift in your camp.
• Campfires & stoves: Follow local rules — many dunes don’t allow open fires. Use propane stoves if allowed.
• Trash & waste: Pack out everything. Bring sturdy trash bags, and don’t bury waste unless explicitly allowed and safe.
• Human waste: Use established bathrooms or portable toilets if required. If allowed to bury (in remote dunes), do so deeply and away from water.
• Noise & courtesy: Respect time of day — quiet hours matter. Be courteous to neighboring campers.
• Lighting: Use minimal lighting at night. Avoid shining bright lights into others’ camps.
• Vehicle parking: Don’t block access for others. Keep room for launches and walking paths.
• Respect other dune users: Be friendly, wave, keep an eye out for others crossing your path.
• Pets: If allowed, keep them controlled. Clean up after them.

5. Advanced Tips & Pro Insights for Dune Season

Once you have the basics nailed, these tips can save you headaches (or embarrassment) in the dunes:

• Sand reading: Learn to read the surface — hard-packed vs soft — and choose your line.
• Ramping dunes: Use wind-blown ridges as ramps or bank turns — but only when comfortable.
• Approaching drops: Test the lip in a low-power run first to avoid nosing down.
• Pace yourself: Don’t launch hard off dunes too frequently — it can wear the suspension and drivetrain fast.
• Clutch & torque control: In soft, deep sand, feather throttle and clutch engagement to avoid digging in.
• Use momentum wisely: In spots where you need to climb, carry momentum; in tight turns, go slower.
• Recovery strategy:
   • When stuck, don’t spin wildly — dig forward, place boards, winch or pull gently
   • Use teamwork — have a spotter, communicate clearly
   • Use snatch blocks or pulley systems to reduce load
• Tire re-inflation checks: After high-speed runs, tires can reheat and inflate slightly; always re-check pressures before more technical terrain.
• Alternate routes: Don’t always follow existing tracks — explore safe parallel lines to spread impact and reduce congestion.
• Night navigation: If navigating by night, bring strong lighting, GPS waypoints, and markers. Be cautious.

6. Sample “Pre-Dune Day” Checklist

7. Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Dune season is a time for adventure, camaraderie, and pushing your limits — but it demands respect. The dunes reward preparation, humility, and knowledge. Whether you’re racing across open bowls, climbing steep faces, or simply enjoying a sunset camp, take the time before you go to get yourself and your rig ready.

If you’re a newbie, don’t hesitate to team up with more experienced riders or join a dune group. And experienced folks — keep an eye out for greenhorns. Share tips, encourage safe behavior, and represent the best of dune culture.

Get your Glamis Season Pass here.