Coachella Valley Preserve

The Coachella Valley Preserve is located at 29000-1000 Palms Canyon Rd, Thousand Palms, CA. It is just east of Palm Springs and Palm Desert, and southwest from the Joshua Tree National Forest.

Coachella Valley consists of three separate preserves each managed by different federal, state and private conservation agency. The Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge, situated within the preserve, provides the majority of habitat for the Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard and is entirely closed to the public.

In addition to the fringe-toed lizard, the preserve is home to other small wildlife species such as the bobcat, cottontail rabbit, black-throated sparrow, great horned owl, American kestrel and several reptiles. It also has the only palm native to the area the California fan palm which can be found at the oases within the preserve.

The portion that is open to the public use includes over 25 miles of hiking trails some of which are available to horseback riders. Guests can also enjoy activities such as picnicking, guided bird tours, hiking, and photography.

Though the exact hours of operation depend on the volunteer base, the Visitor Center is open daily from September through May. It is closed June, July and August. Parking lot hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.