Carrizo Canyon Ecological Reserve

Description

Topography is steep within the approximately 1,000-acre Carrizo Canyon Ecological Reserve. The dominant vegetation is creosote bush scrub. Large mammals using the area include bighorn sheep, mule deer, coyote, bobcat, and gray fox. Common bird species include the golden eagle, Gambel's quail, mourning dove, and black-throated sparrow.

The property was purchased to preserve a historic water supply for peninsular bighorn sheep in Carrizo Canyon, and to maintain and improve habitat for this species. It was designated as an ecological reserve by the Fish and Game Commission in 1978. The property is undeveloped and has been used primarily for hiking and wildlife viewing.

For more information, call the Inland Deserts Region Ontario office at (909) 484-0167.

Recreational Opportunities

Wildlife Viewing  Hiking Trails

Closed January 1 - September 30

Activities: wildlife viewing, hiking

NOTE: Visitors are responsible for knowing and complying with all regulations pertaining to the use of Department lands.

Refer to the Public Uses on State and Federal Lands section of the Waterfowl, Upland Game, and Public Use Regulations (PDF) booklet for both statewide and property-specific regulations.

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You may not operate a drone on CDFW Lands without a Special Use Permit.

Map of Carrizo Canyon ER - click to enlarge in new window
Click to enlarge

Location

Inland Deserts Region (Region 6)

Riverside County

Directions: Hwy 74. Reserve is on west side of highway, about 8 miles south of Palm Desert.

CDFW Lands Viewer

Wildlife Branch - Lands Program
Mailing: P.O. Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090