Ironwood State Prison, State correctional facility in Blythe, California
Ironwood State Prison is a correctional facility in Blythe in eastern Riverside County. The complex holds multiple housing units with different security levels and dedicated work areas for inmate training programs.
The facility opened in 1994 and takes its name from the ironwood trees native to the surrounding desert landscape. This naming choice reflects the natural vegetation of the region.
The prison implements educational initiatives including computer programming through The Last Mile organization and hosted a TEDx conference featuring Richard Branson in 2014.
Visits operate on weekends and typically require advance registration for first-time visitors. Guests should check current access requirements before planning their visit.
The facility is known for offering hands-on trade training in auto mechanics, carpentry, electronics, and welding. These programs allow inmates to develop job skills that serve them after release.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
