Chuckawalla Valley State Prison

Chuckawalla Valley State Prison is a correctional facility located near Blythe in the eastern part of California, occupying a large tract of desert land. The complex consists of multiple housing units arranged in separate yards, along with administrative buildings and service areas.

The facility was built in the late 1980s by California authorities to house a growing prison population within the state system. Its remote desert location was chosen for available land and distance from dense residential areas.

The prison provides educational programs and vocational training opportunities to prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society after their release.

Visits require advance approval and follow California Department of Corrections guidelines, including identification checks and security screening procedures. Due to the remote location and hot desert climate, visitors should bring drinking water and sun protection when traveling to the area.

The facility sits in the Colorado Desert, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit). Staff must take special precautions to protect both inmates and employees from the extreme heat.

Location: California

Inception: December 1988

Official opening: December 1988

GPS coordinates: 33.56340,-114.90900

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30