This is a popular area for camping, fishing, desert exploring and river running. The area also has a group camping area (50 person), a group boat-in area (50 person), and three individual boat-in camp areas. There are 5 ramadas and 2 large picnic areas as well. Restroom facilities include showers. There are 5 campgroun
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Official / Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.parks.ca.gov ↗
- Contact 760-996-2963 · picacho@parks.ca.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Imperial Reservoir Area: Picacho State Recreation Area — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Imperial Reservoir Area: Picacho State Recreation Area?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Imperial Reservoir Area: Picacho State Recreation Area. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Imperial Reservoir Area: Picacho State Recreation Area?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Inter-Park Road, Railroad Canyon 4WD Road, Hyduke Road, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Imperial Reservoir Area: Picacho State Recreation Area. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Imperial Reservoir Area: Picacho State Recreation Area is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
US Army / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Land Management Little Picacho Wilderness
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Picacho Peak Wilderness
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
