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September 2025 www.OverTheHumpSaver.com PAGE 59
LEARN THE SAND WALK AT BIG DUNE

BY CHUCK N. BAKER

I f you like Big, you’ll
love Big Dune!
These relatively
undiscovered sand
dunes offer an ideal
recreation area for ATVs. These hills
cover five square miles and are a
well-kept secret and mostly used by
locals. They tower about 500 feet
and is home to sensitive plants and
animals. This is a migrating dune
created by wind and water from
the Amargosa River. It is constantly
shifting and changing with the wind.

In a science fiction movie “Dune”
large deadly worms that live in
the sand dunes, actor Timothée
Chalamet’s character Paul Atreides —
and later, his mother Jessica (Rebecca
Ferguson) — are shown learning
about the “sandwalk,” which they use Rudy Giuliani, the former mayor of For thrill-seekers, the area is
in the open desert so as to not attract New York and former attorney for surrounded by numerous ATV and
the the deadly worms, who attack President Trump.) OHV trails, making it a popular
beings and objects that generate destination for off-road enthusiasts.
rhythmic movements across the Big Dune Recreation Area, near If you’re not into the dust and dirt,
planet’s surface. To cross the desert Beatty, Nevada, is a unique location there are plenty of pull-off spots
safely, Paul and Jessica are shown that caters to those who love along the main road where you can
making erratic steps and dragging the great outdoors and off-road set up camp and enjoy the scenery
their feet in a bizarre fashion to adventures. With its expansive sand without getting too close to the
discourage patterned movement and dunes and open desert landscape, it’s action. The nearby Martell Market is
stay alive. But not to worry folks, at a prime spot for camping under the a convenient stop for supplies, just a
the Big Dune in Nevada, all the large stars and enjoying the beauty of the short drive away. Take US-95 North.
worms have been done away with desert. Turn left at Valley View Blvd. You will
(Hint: They couldn’t stand the heat!) see a brown highway sign for Big
This area is perfect for those who Dune. Staging areas are five miles
But wait, there is another creature want to get away from the hustle West. A secondary staging area exists
in the sand. The term “big dune and bustle. Visitors have noted the on the North side of the dune.
beetle” likely refers to the Giuliani’s stunning sunsets and clear night
dune scarab beetle (Pseudocotalpa skies, making it a fantastic place While the road to get there can be
giulianii), which is found in for stargazing. As one camper a bit rough, the adventure is worth
specifically around Big Dune. This mentioned, “The Dune itself is it. Whether you’re camping in a tent
beetle is known for its unique mating beautiful and a gorgeous spot for or an RV, Big Dune Recreation Area
behavior, emerging from the sand at sunset or sunrise.” Just keep in mind offers a raw and authentic experience
sunset to reproduce during a brief that there are no amenities on-site, for those looking to escape into
period in late April or early May. so come prepared with everything nature.
(It bears no known connection to you need.