2026 King of the Hammers

The 2026 Griffin King of the Hammers powered by OPTIMA Batteries is staged in Hammertown at Johnson Valley, California. Race week and related events run across January 22–February 7, 2026 on public BLM lands.

Expect technical off‑road racing and a temporary on‑site camp village with race support, vendors, and spectator viewing areas. Follow official sites for permits and land‑use notices.

An intense combination of rock crawling and high‑speed desert racing, King of the Hammers brings purpose‑built Ultra4 cars and a wide range of class entries together in Johnson Valley.

What makes it worth the trip:

• Racing that mixes technical rock sections and open‑desert speed, unique to Ultra4 competition.
• Hammertown: an off‑grid spectator village with vendors, team pits, and a festival atmosphere for several days.
• Officially sanctioned by Ultra4 and held on BLM public lands with a concentrated schedule of qualifying and main events.

Best way to experience it:

Arrive with an off‑road plan and durable shelter—Hammertown is primitive camping. Use official event schedules and BLM access notices to plan which race days and viewing areas are open. Walk to nearby vantage points where allowed, and arrive early for parking and shade.

Good to know:

• The BLM publishes temporary closures and public‑safety guidance—check before you travel.
• The site is remote; services like cell coverage and fuel are limited near Hammertown.

• Great if you want a front‑row look at purpose‑built off‑road racing.
• Great if you enjoy camping and a hands‑on motorsport festival atmosphere.
• Great if you like technical rock crawling combined with desert speed events.
• Maybe skip if you prefer paved venues, easy amenities, or quiet, urban events.