About Lake Cahuilla
Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park is a beautiful 710-acre park set amid expansive lawns and picturesque mountain views, making it a -spectacular day or overnight destination. Situated at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains 6 miles South East of Old Town La Quinta, Lake Cahuilla offers a delightful experience in the Coachella Valley.
With 96 individual and group campsites near the gorgeous Santa Rosa Mountains, Lake Cahuilla is a natural getaway and easy destination for anyone looking to quickly escape city life into unparalleled scenery and the many outdoor activities available. Fishing in the 135-acre lake, hiking and horseback riding on nearby trails are just a few of the great experiences guests can expect. Open grass areas with picnic tables and barbecues are ideal for hosting a range of special events from birthday parties to company gatherings.
We honor our U.S. Military Veterans!
Apply for a W.A.I.V.E. Pass today.
Park Hours
Day Use Hours
6 a.m. to 5 p.m.┃Monday - Sunday
CAH Summer Day-Use Hours (May 1, 2024 - September 30, 2024):
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Friday-Monday: 6:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Night Fishing Dates:
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May 24th
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June 28TH
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July 26th
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August 30th
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September 27th
Park Fees
Camping: $25-45 per night (except for special events).
Day use: $6 per adult and $3 per child (12 and younger). $20 per vehicle for all Major Holidays & Easter Sunday.
Fishing: $10 per adult, per day and $8 per child (12 and younger), per day.
Pets: $2 per pet - per day
Sewage Dump Fee: (non-camper): $20.
See our Holiday Fee Schedule for Holiday Vehicle Fees.
Current license, registration, and insurance is required when camping. For more information, please contact Guest Services.
Park Features
- 62 Hookup campsites
- 10 Water Only
- 20 Equestrian campsites
- 35 Dry Camping Individual Sites
- 135 acre lake
- Fishing
- Picnic facilities
- Sand Volleyball
- Bocce Ball
- Dump station
- Showers
- Horse corrals
- Ice available for purchase
- Hiking
- Barbeque grills
- Grill/fire rings
- Coined showers
- Restrooms
- Pet friendly
Park Rules
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FISHING LICENSE REQUIRED *NOT SOLD AT LAKE CAHUILLA*
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No swimming/boating in the lake
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Bicycle riders must wear helmet
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Drones are not permitted in the park
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Build fires in designated fire rings only
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No ground fires allowed
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No more than 6 occupants and 2 vehicles per site
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Maximum stay of 14 days within a 28-day period
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No fireworks
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No firearms
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Do not remove, deface, or disturb any part of the park features or wildlife
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Do not gather firewood in the park
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Do not attach anything to trees
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Pets must be kept on controlled leashes (Maximum leash length – 6 feet)
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Do not leave pet unattended
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Clean up promptly after pet
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16 and older must have valid State fishing permit
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*Passport America discounts are not applicable with other discounts.
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For a full detailed list of our rules please visit this link.
DON’T MOVE A MUSSEL! Prevent the spread of Quagga and Zebra mussels!
Recreation activities are restricted at Lake Cahuilla to help prevent the introduction and spread of quagga and zebra mussels:
- No inflatables or personal watercraft
- No body contact/ swimming
- All Vessels will be quarantined online for 7 days after mandatory inspection
For more information about quagga and zebra mussels, please download this fact sheet and Quagga education pamphlet from CVWD in English & Spanish.
To learn more about RivCoParks’ quagga containment and prevention program, please read the full policy Here.