California State Prison, Centinela

California State Prison, Centinela is a correctional facility in Imperial County, California, spread across several security zones. The compound includes housing blocks, workshops, and communal areas surrounded by tall fences and watchtowers.

The institution opened in October 1993 when California expanded its capacity to house incarcerated individuals. It was built during a period of rapid growth in the prison population, leading to the development of new facilities in the southeastern part of the state.

The name comes from the Spanish word for sentinel, reflecting the location near the international boundary and the emphasis on controlled access. Incarcerated individuals often enroll in vocational workshops that teach skills like welding or building maintenance, preparing them for employment after release.

Visitors must preregister and bring valid identification upon arrival, as security screening at the entrance can take some time. The desert setting can be very hot in summer, so keeping water in the vehicle is advisable when planning a visit.

The proximity to the international boundary requires special measures against smuggling attempts, including the use of drones and other monitoring technology. Winter nights can drop below freezing, which is less common in this part of the desert and creates additional challenges for building management.

Location: Imperial County

Inception: October 1993

Official opening: October 1993

GPS coordinates: 32.82300,-115.78900

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28