Big Maria Mountains Wilderness
Rate this placeNearby: Sungold Park Engevick Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Big Maria Mountains Wilderness is a protected area in the southeastern region of California.
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Summary
The area encompasses over 45,000 acres of rugged terrain, including a range of mountains, canyons, and valleys. There are several good reasons to visit this wilderness, including its stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
One of the most popular points of interest in the Big Maria Mountains Wilderness is the range of peaks that give the area its name. These mountains rise to an elevation of over 3,500 feet and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike or climb to the summits of these peaks for an unforgettable experience.
Another notable feature of the Big Maria Mountains Wilderness is the variety of wildlife that inhabits the area. Desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and rattlesnakes are just a few of the species that can be found here. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the diversity of avian life in the area, including hawks, eagles, and owls.
In addition to its natural beauty and wildlife, the Big Maria Mountains Wilderness is also home to several historic sites. These include abandoned mines, homesteads, and other relics from the area's past.
The best time of year to visit the Big Maria Mountains Wilderness is in the cooler months, typically from October through April. Summer temperatures can be extreme, with highs reaching well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Overall, the Big Maria Mountains Wilderness is a unique and exciting destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. Whether you're interested in hiking, rock climbing, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, this wilderness is definitely worth a visit.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mayflower Park
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Midland LTVA Dispersed
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MIT Geology Field Camp Site
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Sungold Park
Engevick Park
Appleby Park