Rogers Dry Lake

Rogers Dry Lake is a salt pan and military aviation facility in the Mojave Desert within Kern County, California. The flat expanse sits at around 700 meters elevation and covers more than 160 square kilometers.

The Army began using the area as a bombing range in the 1930s. Over time, it grew into Edwards Air Force Base, a center for test flights and aerospace development.

The name recalls early rancher Cliff Rogers, who owned land here in the 19th century. The white expanse appears almost like an endless runway under the California sky.

The hard surface remains usable for landings and departures year-round unless rare rains leave it wet. The best views come from the edge of the air base, where public roads run nearby.

A huge compass rose is painted directly on the surface and helps test pilots orient themselves during high-speed runs. More than 300 days a year, weather conditions allow flight trials.

Location: Kern County

Elevation above the sea: 694 m

GPS coordinates: 34.92194,-117.82750

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30