Cahuilla Ranger Station | California

Cahuilla Ranger Station is located off of Gecko Road. This station offers visitors a location to purchase their dunes permit, gather information and seek medical aid. This station is open Friday through Sunday from mid-October to mid-April during the high visitation period.

The BLM is replacing the Cahuilla ranger station to improve services for visitors in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area. 

Key benefits

• Safer, larger, more efficient public parking area. 
• New modernized ranger station building to better support the BLM's visitor services and operations.

Timeline

Summer 2026: Temporarily relocate the Cahuilla Ranger Station to Cement Flats during construction.

Late 2026: Demolish existing ranger station.

2027: Construction of new ranger station begins.

Summer 2028: New ranger station opens to the public.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where do I buy my permit if the Cahuilla Ranger Station is closed?
Permits can be purchased at the temporary ranger station at Cement Flats, approved off-site vendors, or online at www.isdpermits.net.

Will medical care still be provided?
Yes. The BLM will have emergency medical service trailers at the temporary ranger station at Cement Flats to assist with walk-in medical needs and injuries.

Why is the BLM building a new ranger station?
The current ranger station is nearly 40 years old and has significant maintenance challenges. A modern, larger facility is needed to continue providing medical care and other essential services to visitors.

How will the new ranger station construction affect visitor services?
While the new station is being built, the BLM will continue to provide law enforcement, emergency medical services, trash collection, sand removal, and bathroom cleaning.