I live in Ridgecrest, There is a gas station at Johanasburg again, it was put in within the last year. California City (south on 14), Inyokern (North on 14 and 395) or Johanasberg (South on 395) are all about the same distance from Red Rock canyon (no more than 20 min. drive)
I enjoy going thru Last Chance canyon, Fire Opal canyon road, or thru the Narrows and on to EP11. They are all a little rough in places but I'm only running 31's and they are my favorite trails so far (only lived here just under two years, and don't get out as much as I'd like). I'f you like site seeing go and take a look at the Burro Schmit Tunnel its kind of interesting.
Just bring plenty of water, its been above 90 for about a week.