Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area
By Amber Ward

Blow Sands, one of Ocotillo Wells SVRA's most popular sites. Photos by Amber Ward

Labor Day through Memorial Day is desert season in Ocotillo Wells. There are over 80,000 acres of desert open to off-road enthusiasts, and 42,000 of these acres are located within the Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA).

Located just east of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park off Highway 78, Ocotillo Wells SVRA features a variety of terrain and trails for a variety of off-highway vehicles.

"Even on the busiest day of desert season you can still find a place to ride," said Julian resident and rider, Ryan Butts. "There is always a place to get away from the crowd."

To the south and east of Ocotillo Wells SVRA are large tracts of BLM land (U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management) that are also open to off-highway vehicles (OHVs). The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is located to its west and is closed to off-road recreation, but it is open to highway legal vehicles that are willing to explore its many primitive roads.

Jesse Cruz, frequent visitor to Ocotillo Wells.

Ocotillo Wells is a haven for dirt bikes, quads, buggies and any other off-road vehicle during desert season.

"Ocotillo Wells is a place you can bring the whole family," says frequent rider, Jesse Cruz. "It offers different terrain for all levels, from the beginner to the expert rider."

The wash and ridge terrain of Ocotillo Wells SVRA ranges in elevation from below sea level to 400 feet, and temperatures vary from 120 degrees in summer to below freezing in the winter.

Whenever visiting the desert, bring a lot of water. Its also a good idea to bring sun screen, a hat, and wear layered clothing since weather can vary during the course of a day.

There is no charge for camping and day-use at the Ocotillo Wells SVRA. Open camping is permitted throughout the park for up to 30 days. The park also features restrooms, pay showers, shade ramadas, picnic tables, and fire rings in specific camping areas. There is a waste disposal station located by the Ranger Station.

Map of Octillo Wells and surrounding areas.

Water is not available in the park. Along the highway, in the small town of Ocotillo Wells, you can find vehicle repair shops, fuel, telephones, groceries, restaurants and a motel and RV park.

There are several points of interest along self-guided tours that are worth visiting in Ocotillo Wells. These recommended sites mentioned below require off-road vehicles with high clearance and four-wheel drive capabilities. These tours can last anywhere from a few hours to all day.

Blow Sand Hill

Here, the wind has carried sand many miles before depositing it on to this huge dune. This is one of the most popular spots in the park.

Devil's Slide

This ancient decomposing mountain top presents a 200-foot challenge to OHV enthusiasts. There are several old mine shafts along the mountainside that are said to be haunted. There have been reports of flickering lights near the mines after a good rain.

Barrel Springs

Here, you will find mesquite sand dunes and a natural springs, especially after a rain. Part of this area is a cultural preserve. This area was once used by several Native American groups and early settlers as a place to rest, meet and trade.

Shell Reef

Park beneath this reef and examine the soil that is littered with fossilized oyster shells, you may even find a whole one. Estimated to be over 4 million years old, this reef was pushed out of an ancient sea bed during the time the surrounding mountains were also formed.

As summer approaches, desert season is coming to an end, and now is the time to take that one last trip. Located off Highway 78, just 35 miles east of Julian or 20 miles west of Highway 86.

For more information about Ocotillo Wells SVRA, call 760-767-5391.