Whether you’re a first-timer or a Hammertown veteran, surviving—and thriving—at King of the Hammers requires a game plan. The world’s gnarliest off-road race meets a week-long desert festival in the middle of nowhere… with tens of thousands of people. You’re going to want to come prepared.
Know Where You’re Going
King of the Hammers takes place in the Johnson Valley OHV area, with Hammertown built on Means Dry Lakebed. The only way in is off Highway 247 at Boone Road. Do not try to enter from the north or through Camp Rock—you’ll either get lost or cross the active racecourse and military base. GPS doesn’t always work out here, so trust the maps we provide and signage on-site.
Getting Around the Lakebed
This isn’t a music festival—there are no golf carts or shuttle buses. Bring a capable 4×4 or UTV, and know that dust, rocks, and zero cell service are the norm. Stay on designated roads when spectating. Never drive on or across the racecourse unless instructed by a race official.
Quick Tip: “Dust Means Danger” – if you see dust, slow down and assume a vehicle is coming.
Pack Like a Desert Local
Forget “festival packing.” This is extreme desert off-roading.
- Must-haves: race radio, flashlight, GPS or mapping app, headlamp, plenty of drinking water, food, shade, recovery gear, fire extinguisher, and layered clothing.
- Bonus survival gear: ear protection (race rigs are LOUD), extra fuel, and a printed spectator map (you could lose service).
Pro tip: Hammertown gets hot by day and freezing at night. Dress in layers like you’re in the mountains.
Safety Is Not a Suggestion
Respect the Hammers is more than a hashtag—it’s a culture.
- Stay 150 feet away from the racecourse at all times.
- Never stand on the outside of a turn or downhill from an obstacle.
- Don’t stack or remove rocks from the course.
- Don’t be that guy: No fireworks, no high-speed driving through camp, and no tailgating… unless you’re racing.
Helmets are the law in all UTVs—driver and passengers, even at low speeds.
What to Expect in Hammertown
Vendors. Autograph signings. Night racing.Music. Food trucks. fire pits. The vibe is high energy but respectful. Stop by the KOH 20th Anniversary C Celebration Wednesday night the near team Yukon Gear and Axle and the main firepit for giveaways, live music, and the best driver meet-and-greet of the week.
Leave It Better
This land doesn’t belong to us—it belongs to all of us. Take your trash, don’t dig trenches, and respect closures. We’re here because BLM lets us be. Let’s not screw it up.
