Kelso Dunes, Mojave Desert, California

The Kelso Dunes and the adjoining Devil's Playground make up the largest dune field in the Mojave Desert. The dunes are easily reached from the Los Angeles and Las Vegas metropolitan areas. The Kelso Dunes are a designated wilderness area in which only foot traffic is permitted, and the environment in and around the dunes is unspoiled. The Kelso Dunes are also one of the world's few booming dunes (also called sounding sands). Bring lots of water and prepare for harsh sun and wind if you visit. The day of my visit was a warm October day with a mild breeze, perfect for making the dune boom. I'll show you how I did it.

Learn more about the region in the U.S. Geological Survey publication Desert Landforms and Surface Processes in the Mojave National Preserve and Vicinity by Philip Stoffer.