112 Primitive/undeveloped Campground
3.92137 reviews5172 Highway 78, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
112 Primitive/undeveloped Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Open camping is permitted throughout the park for up to 30 days per calendar year. No fees are collected for camping or day use.
About this campground
Spread across a vast desert landscape, Ocotillo Wells SVRA beckons adventurers with 112 primitive campsites where the raw beauty of the desert meets unbridled outdoor recreation. This sprawling playground invites off-highway vehicle enthusiasts and nature explorers to discover ancient geological wonders while camping under star-filled skies in one of California's most dramatic desert environments.
The campground accommodates primitive camping without facilities, primarily catering to OHV enthusiasts and desert explorers.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Barrel Springs, where the desert holds secrets of ancient civilizations and frontier pioneers. This culturally rich area preserves evidence of Native American settlements and early homesteaders who once called this challenging landscape home, offering visitors a chance to connect with the human stories etched into the desert's timeless terrain.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the desert's dynamic personality throughout the year, where warm, dry days give way to cool, crisp nights perfect for campfire gatherings. After winter rains, the seemingly barren landscape transforms into a stunning wildflower showcase, painting the desert floor in vibrant yellows, purples, and pinks—a photographer's dream and nature lover's paradise.
ElevationNavigate the undulating desert terrain where elevation changes create diverse microclimates and stunning vantage points. High-clearance vehicles unlock access to elevated adventures and panoramic viewpoints, rewarding intrepid explorers with breathtaking vistas that stretch to the horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryMarvel at nature's artistry across a landscape that defies expectations—where wind-sculpted mesquite dunes flow like frozen waves, ancient granite formations rise like desert sentinels, and prehistoric oyster reefs tell tales of an ocean that vanished millions of years ago. Protected cultural preserves and sweeping desert vistas create an outdoor museum where every trail reveals new wonders.
Geological RegionExplore a geological wonderland where time has crafted an extraordinary tapestry of landscapes. From the ever-shifting mesquite sand dunes that whisper in the wind to weathered granite outcroppings that glow at sunset, and ancient fossilized oyster reefs that prove this desert once lay beneath prehistoric seas—Ocotillo Wells showcases millions of years of Earth's dramatic transformation in one spectacular destination.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDetails on specific accessibility features are not provided.
Sites SizeThe campground allows open camping throughout the park, but details on specific site sizes are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy level for campsites is not described.
Total Campsites112 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo explicit site recommendations provided.
Best CampsitesCamping is spread across the 112 primitive sites, but no specific recommendations.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping is available for up to 30 days per calendar year.
Groups
Details on group camping are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutPrimitive and dispersed camping layout across 85,000 acres.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for camping.
Reservation PlatformsNot required, open camping policy.
Walk-in AvailabilityOpen camping policy applies, no designated walk-up sites.
Cancellation PolicyNo fees are collected, so cancellation policies are not applicable.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Ocotillo Wells SVRA offers diverse recreational activities focused on off-highway vehicles and desert exploration. Popular sites within the park include Blowsand Hill, Devil’s Slide, Barrel Springs, Shell Reef, Gas Domes, and Pumpkin Patch, providing unique experiences for both OHV enthusiasts and general explorers. Cultural and educational programs related to the park’s natural and cultural history are also available.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are available, including those leading to Pumpkin Patch, Shell Reef, and Barrel Springs, which offer unique geological and cultural experiences.Biking
Biking is allowed on various trails within the park, catering to all skill levels. Pole Line Road is especially noted for its miles-long biking routes.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted at Barrel Springs, an oasis for wildlife such as coyotes, which often dig holes to drink from the springs.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers cultural programs related to Native American and early settler history, particularly in cultural preserves like Barrel Springs.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities such as skiing or snowboarding were mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not supported in the park due to the desert environment.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Restrictions apply for campfires and burning; details are governed by superintendent's orders.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include extreme desert conditions, venomous wildlife like scorpions and snakes, and challenging terrain for vehicles.
Active alertsNo specific alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 16.5 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Office (760-767-0166), Pioneer's Memorial Hospital (760-344-2120), Emergency services at 911.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are mentioned with dumpsters available for waste disposal on-site, but no specific pickup schedules or recycling details are provided.
Proximity to water featuresIncludes Barrel Springs and Gas Domes, which are unique geological water features.
Common complaintsSome campers express concerns about noise from off-road vehicles.
HostRangers are available for assistance, contact through Discovery Center or Ranger Office.
Campground Map
5172 Highway 78, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Driving directionsFrom Borrego Springs, take Highway 78 east. The site is located near Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area.
Accessible from Highway 78, suitable for most vehicles, but towing large loads may be challenging due to narrow road sections.Nearby places
Borrego Springs (approximately 10 miles), Salton City (approximately 30 miles), Ocotillo Wells (approximately 5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available in nearby Borrego Springs, Ocotillo Wells, and Salton City, including groceries, vehicle repair shops, and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
3.9
137 reviews
112 Primitive/undeveloped Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users praise Ocotillo Wells SVRA for its off-highway vehicle trails, open camping options, and unique desert destinations. Complaints occasionally arise about noise levels, lack of water, and windy conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 137 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the free camping and riding areas, clean restrooms and showers, and diverse terrain for all skill levels of off-road vehicles. Unique attractions like Pumpkin Patch and Shell Reef...
Based on 137 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users report issues with windy conditions, lack of potable water and dump stations, and crowded areas during peak times. Noise from neighboring campers and side-by-side vehicles is a concern for...
Based on 137 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water and quarters for showers. Avoid visiting during windy weather and plan your stay on weekdays for a quieter experience. High-clearance vehicles or 4x4s are recommended for remote...
Based on 137 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during the cooler months, with Red Sticker season running from October 1 to May 31. Summer months tend to be avoided due to extreme heat.
Based on 137 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "This was an active area, so we left before sundown in order to find a quieter place to overnight." 2. "We love camping here. The Rangers really do a good job keeping this place clean and safe."...
Based on 137 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users highlight that camping away from major trails can reduce noise levels from vehicles. Popular sites like Pumpkin Patch and Shell Reef are recommended for exploration.
Based on 137 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility-related reviews are not mentioned.
Based on 137 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in camping areas and RVs but prohibited in cabins, gazebos, and luxury tents, which may disappoint some visitors.
Based on 137 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025