About Wiley's Well Campground
Located in the lower Colorado Desert in eastern Riverside County, Wiley's Well campground is located adjacent to a desert riparian wash populated by palo verde, smoke tree, mesquite and ironwood trees. There is easy 4-wheel drive access to nearby rock-hounding sites: Hauser Geode Beds and Opal Hill Fire Agate Mine. The historic Bradshaw Trail National Scenic Byway provides access to numerous trails, gem and mineral collection sites, and an historic stage route/mining area. Long term permits cost $180 or a short visit permit for $40.
How to Get There
Take I-10 (eastbound if you are traveling?from Palm Springs; westbound if you are traveling from Blythe) to the Wiley?s Well Road (Exit 222) and head south for 3 miles.? The paved road ends here and turns right to provide access to two state prisons, Chuckwalla Valley and Ironwood; however, visitors to the LTVA need to continue south on Wiley?s Well Road, which is the graded dirt road?to the left. Take the graded road 6 miles south to the Wiley's Well camp site, or travel an additional 3 miles south to the Coon Hollow camp site.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Wiley's Well Campground
Heading to Wiley's Well Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Wiley's Well Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Wiley's Well Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/15181) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Wiley's Well Campground?
Take I-10 (eastbound if you are traveling?from Palm Springs; westbound if you are traveling from Blythe) to the Wiley?s Well Road (Exit 222) and head south for 3 miles.? The paved road ends here and turns right to provide access to two state prisons, Chuckwalla Valley and Ironwood; however, visitors to the LTVA need to continue south on Wiley?s Well Road, which is the graded dirt road?to the left.…
How do I contact Wiley's Well Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 760-833-7100 or email: BLM_CA_Web_PS@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
