112 Primitive/Undeveloped Campground

Star3.92
137 reviews
5172 Highway 78, Borrego Springs, CA 92004

Quick Facts

2,612 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

112 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens California State Parks, OHMVR Division site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
112 Primitive/Undeveloped Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Open camping is permitted throughout the park for up to 30 days per calendar year. No fees are collected for camping or day use.
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

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Reserve California
Provider
(760) 767-5391
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What Campers Say

3.92

Mixed Reviews

Based on 137 reviews

274 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersrestrooms

Some mention

noise

"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."

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Campground Map

5172 Highway 78, Borrego Springs, CA 92004

112 Primitive/Undeveloped Campground

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.

Best Time to Camp at 112 Primitive/Undeveloped Campground

Experience 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
Not recommended

Summer avoided due to extreme heat; park busiest in cooler months (Oct–May preference).

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Cooler months popular; Red Sticker season Oct 1–May 31 makes fall ideal.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Pleasant temperatures and post‑rain wildflower displays can improve visits in spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.5 / 5
Top 23% in CA

Open year‑round; cooler, crisp nights good for camping though winter rains can alter conditions.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Open year-round for camping.
  • Current Alerts: No specific alerts mentioned.

About 112 Primitive/Undeveloped 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.
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Best Campsites

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Stay Limit
Camping is available for up to 30 days per calendar year.

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.
HikingSeveral hiking trails are available, including those leading to Pumpkin Patch, Shell Reef, and Barrel Springs, which offer unique geological and cultural experiences.
BikingBiking 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 viewingWildlife 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 ProgramsThe park offers cultural programs related to Native American and early settler history, particularly in cultural preserves like Barrel Springs.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include extreme desert conditions, venomous wildlife like scorpions and snakes, and challenging terrain for vehicles.
Active AlertsNo specific alerts mentioned.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at 112 Primitive/Undeveloped Campground

Reviews

3.9
137 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed 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...
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Based on 137 reviews

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...
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Based on 137 reviews

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...
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Based on 137 reviews

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 reviews

Camper 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."...
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Based on 137 reviews

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 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility-related reviews are not mentioned.
Based on 137 reviews

Pet-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 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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