Is the allure of the California desert calling, beckoning you with promises of open spaces and a chance to test your marksmanship?
Then Berdoo Canyon Shooting Area might just be the answer, but tread carefully, because this popular spot comes with both acclaim and cautionary tales.Nestled a mere 10 minutes from the bustling 10 Freeway, in Desert Hot Springs, California, Berdoo Canyon Shooting Area has earned a reputation as an easily accessible outdoor range. Its GPS-friendly location, conveniently situated just off the main road, is a major draw for shooting enthusiasts. The 4.4-star rating from 57 reviewers suggests a generally positive experience, and many appreciate the ease of access. However, the canyon's popularity has also led to some serious concerns.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|
| Name | Berdoo Canyon Shooting Area |
| Location | Desert Hot Springs, CA 92241 |
| Accessibility | Approximately 10 minutes from the 10 Freeway, easily accessible via GPS. Turn off Dillon Road onto Berdoo Canyon Road. |
| Terrain | Rocky, with a paved entrance road (with potholes) that is generally driveable without a truck. |
| Rating | 4.4 stars (based on 57 reviewers) |
| Activities | Outdoor Shooting, Off-Roading (nearby Berdoo Canyon Truck Trail) |
| Concerns | Littering (brass casings, leftover targets), overcrowding, safety concerns due to presence of young people, occasional closures during busy summer weekends, legal restrictions (Riverside County Ordinance 514 Section 5). |
| Nearby Attractions | Joshua Tree National Park (Berdoo Canyon Truck Trail connects to the park), Berdoo Camp ruins (historical site related to the California Aqueduct construction). |
| Roads | Arrastre Creek OHV Road 2N02, Fargo Canyon Road, Berdoo Canyon Road, Dillon Road |
| Contact | Contact via phone for pricing, hours and directions. (Number not provided in original content) |
| Further Information | Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Website |
"I've shot at Berdoo a bunch," one individual shares, describing it as "a good spot, rocky terrain if you go deep enough." The entrance, characterized by a paved road riddled with potholes, is generally accessible even without a truck. However, this accessibility contributes to the canyon's popularity, sometimes to its detriment.Safety is a recurring theme in discussions about Berdoo Canyon. While generally considered safe, the presence of groups of young people necessitates heightened awareness of one's surroundings. More alarming, however, is the reported incident of a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) officer shooting a woman who was off-roading on Berdoo Canyon off of Dillon Road. Riverside County Sheriffs investigators responded to the scene on a Sunday night, and the preliminary investigation revealed the involvement of the BLM. While details of the incident remain scarce, it serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with recreational activities in remote areas.Beyond safety concerns, the cleanliness of Berdoo Canyon is a major point of contention. Numerous visitors lament the area's filthy condition, decrying the endless brass casings and leftover targets that litter the landscape. "Drove through Berdoo Canyon area last year where many people were shooting, what a dump," one reviewer bluntly states. Another echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the broader implications: "It is hard enough to shoot in Cali, leaving places trashed just gives more reasons to ban shooting." While acknowledging that not all the trash originates from shooters, the sheer volume of debris directly linked to shooting activities paints a grim picture. The accumulation of waste is so severe that the site is known to close on busy summer weekends once it reaches capacity.The issue of littering isn't just an aesthetic problem; it also poses environmental risks and contributes to a negative perception of shooting sports. The careless disposal of ammunition casings and targets can contaminate the soil and water, harming wildlife and potentially impacting human health. Moreover, the visual blight reinforces negative stereotypes about gun owners and provides ammunition for those advocating for stricter gun control measures.Adding another layer of complexity, it's crucial to note that shooting may not even be entirely legal in Berdoo Canyon. The statement "It's not legal to, riverside county ordinance 514 section 5" suggests potential restrictions or outright prohibitions on shooting activities in certain areas of the canyon. This underscores the importance of thoroughly researching and understanding local regulations before engaging in any shooting activities. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, and violating local ordinances can result in fines, legal penalties, and further restrictions on access to public lands.Beyond the immediate concerns of safety and cleanliness, Berdoo Canyon offers other attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. The Berdoo Canyon Truck Trail, a 25-mile route located in the Desert Hot Springs area, connects to Joshua Tree National Park. This trail provides an alternative exit to Joshua Tree and offers a more challenging experience than the Geology Tour Road. However, the trail also presents its own set of challenges, particularly on the Palm Springs side of Berdoo Canyon Road. Camping in this area is generally discouraged unless you venture deep into the canyons, due to the popularity of shooting and the potential for encountering less-than-desirable individuals.The canyon's historical significance also adds to its appeal. Berdoo Canyon Road eventually leads past the ruins of the Berdoo Camp, established in the 1930s as the home for the builders of the California Aqueduct. These ruins offer a glimpse into the past, reminding visitors of the region's rich history and the ingenuity of those who shaped its landscape.For those seeking alternative shooting locations, several options exist in the vicinity of Berdoo Canyon. Fargo Canyon, located further south, is another popular spot. Additionally, the old cement factory in the canyon just north of Desert Hot Springs has historically been used for shooting, though its current status and legality are uncertain. There was also a police range near Windy Point in Palm Springs, but it is reportedly closed to the general public, though some individuals still occasionally shoot there.Lori Carey's story from August 17, 2016, highlights Berdoo Canyon Trail as a worthwhile drive, whether you're seeking an alternative exit from Joshua Tree National Park or find the Geology Tour Road too tame. However, it's essential to remember that responsible recreation is paramount. "Stay on the road leaving Berdoo Canyon," one user advises, emphasizing the importance of minimizing environmental impact and adhering to established trails.The incident involving the BLM officer and the off-roader also serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of staying informed about land ownership and usage regulations. The Bureau of Land Management oversees vast tracts of public land, but specific rules and restrictions may vary depending on the location. It is crucial to consult official BLM maps and regulations before engaging in any off-road activities or shooting sports.Ultimately, Berdoo Canyon Shooting Area presents a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. Its accessibility and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for shooting enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. However, the issues of littering, safety concerns, and potential legal restrictions cannot be ignored. Responsible recreation requires a commitment to environmental stewardship, adherence to safety protocols, and a thorough understanding of local regulations. Only then can visitors ensure that Berdoo Canyon remains a valuable resource for future generations.To truly enjoy Berdoo Canyon and other public lands responsibly, consider the following: Pack it in, pack it out:
Never leave behind any trash, including ammunition casings, targets, and food wrappers. Bring extra trash bags and consider picking up litter left by others.Use designated shooting areas: If available, stick to designated shooting areas to minimize environmental impact and ensure compliance with local regulations. Practice safe gun handling:
Always follow established gun safety rules, including keeping your firearm pointed in a safe direction, treating every firearm as if it is loaded, and being sure of your target and what is beyond it.Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to other people in the area, including hikers, off-roaders, and wildlife. Avoid shooting near populated areas or trails. Respect private property:
Be aware of property boundaries and avoid trespassing on private land.Check local regulations: Before engaging in any shooting activities, consult local regulations and ordinances to ensure compliance. Join a cleanup effort:
Participate in organized cleanup efforts to help remove litter and restore the natural beauty of Berdoo Canyon and other public lands.Educate others: Encourage fellow outdoor enthusiasts to practice responsible recreation and respect the environment. Support organizations dedicated to conservation: Contribute to organizations that work to protect and preserve public lands for future generations.By embracing a culture of responsible recreation, we can ensure that Berdoo Canyon and other natural treasures remain accessible and enjoyable for all.
