Open
— Open for the LTVA season through April 15, 2026. Special Recreation Permit required, available as a long-term permit for $180 or short-visit permit for $40. First-come, first-served camping only.
About
Wiley's Well Campground sits in eastern Riverside County within the lower Colorado Desert, part of the Mule Mountains Long-Term Visitor Area. The campground is situated adjacent to a desert riparian wash lined with native vegetation including palo verde, smoke tree, mesquite, and ironwood trees. This dispersed camping area is particularly popular with rockhounds, offering easy access to the Hauser Geode Beds and Opal Hill Fire Agate Mine via 4-wheel drive roads.
The campground serves as a base for exploring the historic Bradshaw Trail National Scenic Byway, which provides access to numerous trails, gem and mineral collection sites, and historic stage route and mining areas. As part of the LTVA system, the campground caters to long-term winter visitors seeking an extended desert camping experience with minimal facilities.
Access requires traveling on graded dirt roads south from Interstate 10. The campground offers basic amenities including fire rings, grills, and picnic tables at campsites. A camp host is present during peak season to assist visitors. No hookups or water are available, requiring self-contained camping units or adequate preparation.
Directions
From I-10, take Exit 222 (Wiley's Well Road) and head south for 3 miles. When the paved road ends and turns right toward state prisons, continue south on the graded dirt road to the left for 6 miles to reach the campground.
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