The Manson Cabin Run

October 31 – November 2, 2025

Join us for a Halloween-themed weekend of camping, costumes, and off-road exploration as we head deep into the Panamint Mountains to visit the infamous Barker Ranch—the final hideout of Charles Manson.

This is a 4WD-only adventure through the haunting beauty of Death Valley’s backcountry. We’ll travel roughly 60 miles round-trip off-pavement, exploring remote desert trails and eerie history—all before sunset.

• 👻 Friday Night (Oct 31): Arrival + Costume (1st place - $100, 2nd place $50, 3rd place $25) & Vehicle Decoration Contest (1st place - $100, 2nd place $50, 3rd place $25)
• 🚙 Saturday (Nov 1): Full-day guided off-road run to Barker Ranch
• 🔥 Saturday Night: Spooky campfire tales
• ⛺ Sunday (Nov 2): Relaxed camp morning, check out at 10am
  

• 4:00 PM – Gates open at Base Camp Death Valley
• 8:00 PM – Costume contest, Vehicle decorating contest Awards

• 6:30 AM – Coffee & light breakfast
• 7:30 AM – Mandatory driver's meeting + trail line-up
• 8:00 AM – Departure for Barker Ranch
• 12:00 PM – Lunch + exploration at the site
• 1:00 PM – Begin return trip to Base Camp
• ~5:30 PM – Arrive back before sunset
• 7:00 PM – Group Campfire +Spooky Stories

• 10:00 AM – Pack out

• High-clearance 4WD vehicles only
• Spare tire, recovery gear, and off-road readiness mandatory
• Bring at least 1 gallon of water per person/day, plus lunch/snacks for the trail
• GMRS or HAM radio strongly encouraged
• Costumes & vehicle decorations highly encouraged! 🎭🎃

• This event is off-grid and self-supported. No cell service on the trail. No fuel on-site.
• Barker Ranch trail conditions vary—expect rocks, sand, and potential pinstripes.
• We will return before sunset to avoid after-dark trail hazards.
• Leave No Trace: Pack it in, pack it out.
• Fires are permitted in designated area only.
• RV Parking (Max 40ft) is very limited and must be purchased as an add on.

Limited to 25 Vehicles — Reserve Early!

• $149 / Vehicle (includes driver)
• $29 / Additional Passenger
• Kids Under 12: FREE
  

• $199 / Vehicle (includes driver)
• $49 / Additional Passenger
• Kids Under 12: FREE

Tickets must be purchased online, in advance. No tickets at the gate.

LIABILITY & MEDIA USAGE WAIVER
By purchasing a ticket and/or participating in the The Manson Cabin Run (“the Event”) at Base Camp Death Valley on October 31-November 2, 2025, I acknowledge and agree to the following:

In consideration of being permitted to attend or participate in the Event and related activities, I, for myself and on behalf of my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns, hereby release, waive, and discharge the organizers of The Manson Cabin Run, Base Camp Death Valley, event volunteers, contractors, vendors, sponsors, and any affiliated organizations or individuals—including but not limited to the property owners, event staff, and representatives—from any and all liability for personal injury, illness, property damage, loss, or wrongful death that may result from my attendance or participation.

I acknowledge that the Event takes place in a rugged outdoor environment, and I assume full responsibility for any risks associated with extreme heat, uneven terrain, camping, cooking equipment, off-road driving or other inherent hazards.

I also grant full and unrestricted permission to the organizers of the Event and their authorized agents to capture, use, and reproduce any photographs, video, or audio recordings taken of me during the Event, for any promotional, commercial, or informational purpose in perpetuity without compensation or further approval.

By purchasing a ticket or entering the event premises, I confirm that I have read and agree to this waiver.

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Trona, Kids events & activities in Trona.