Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area

Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area is set aside for off-road vehicles able to navigate deep sand, but there is limited access for highway vehicles. On quiet weekdays, hikers can even enjoy it.

Of particular interest are the concretions found throughout OWSVRA, particularly at the Pumpkin Patch and Tectonic Gorge.

Pumpkin Patch

Obtain road information and a free map of OWSVRA at the Discovery Center off Highway 78 in Ocotillo Wells.

Effects of rain erosion - mini hoodoos

Tectonic Gorge is a remarkable drive in Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area east of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. From the Borrego-Salton Seaway, it is reached by driving south on Cross-Over Trail. For the first 0.25 mile, the road is through a large camping and picknicking area, and hard packed. It abruptly changes to soft sand when it reaches the Tectonic Gorge road to the west. Four-wheel drive is advised.