The valley is characterized by chaparral hills dotted with granitic boulders. Large oak trees provide shady hideaways at two campgrounds off McCain Valley Road. East of the valley, in several steep canyons, oasis of native fan palms are found. These islands of vegetation provide habitat for many desert species, including a population of Peninsular bighorn sheep.
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Camping only allowed in designated campsites.
Pack in, pack out and bring a lot of water.
Cottonwood and Lark Campgrounds offer tree shade, vault toilets, picnic tables, and non-potable water and require a fee.
Pets are allowed and must be under your control at all times.
Horseback riding is permitted throughout the area. Bring all needed supplies including water.
Hiking is permitted throughout the area.
Hunting, fishing, and non-commercial trapping are allowed under state and local laws.
No Target Shooting.
Street legal vehicles are permitted on designated trails.
Mountain biking is permitted on designated trails that are shared with motorized vehicles.
Mountain bikes are also permitted on trails on the east side of McCain Valley Rd that are NOT in the adjacent Carrizo Gorge Wilderness Area.
Open to green sticker: Year Round
Open to red sticker: Oct 1 - April 30