Geology
Imperial County, CA
Approximate location — plotted from published sources, not a site visit, and not a guarantee of access.
Shell-rich canyon on the edge of the Coyote Mountains Wilderness near Ocotillo, where marine Imperial Formation beds expose abundant invertebrate fossils. Public BLM approach via Fossil Canyon Road; a classic low-desert geology stop paired with nearby Painted Gorge.
| Region | Imperial County, CA |
|---|---|
| Coordinates (approx.) | 32.7829, -116.0198 |
| Formation | Imperial Formation (marine) |
| Highlight | Abundant shell fossils |
| Access | Dirt road / high-clearance or 4WD |
| Manager | BLM El Centro / wilderness boundary |
Public recreation data — BLM & Recreation.gov (RIDB). Verify current access, fees, and seasonal closures before traveling.
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Plan ahead. Leave no trace. Verify current access before traveling.