Lake Cahuilla
6 mi south · Bureau of Reclamation
Surronded by the stark beauty of the Santa Rosa Mountains, Lake Cahuilla (pronounced Kah-wee-ah) is a favorite recreation area in the Coachella Valley.
Outdoors
Fishing near Indian Wells
Lakes, rivers and recreation areas near Indian Wells where fishing is allowed, closest first.
9places to fish
6 mito the closest
7within 30 miles
Good to know: Anyone 16 or older generally needs a state fishing license; seasons, limits and special rules vary by water. California license information ↗
Closest picks
Ribbonwood Equestrian Cg
13 mi southwest · USDA Forest Service
Ribbonwood is an ideal mountain escape for equestrian campers. The campground overlooks Palm Desert and the Salton Sea in southern California and provides visitors with access to hundreds of miles of terrain for exploration and enjoyment.
Fern Basin
25 mi west · USDA Forest Service
The picturesque Fern Basin Campground is a perfect escape from a busy lifestyle. It provides peace and quiet in the mountains of southern California as well as access to countless recreational opportunities.
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Within 30 miles (7)
Lake Cahuilla
Surronded by the stark beauty of the Santa Rosa Mountains, Lake Cahuilla (pronounced Kah-wee-ah) is a favorite recreation area in the Coachella Valley.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Picnicking
- Recreational Vehicles
- Water sports
Ribbonwood Equestrian Cg
Ribbonwood is an ideal mountain escape for equestrian campers. The campground overlooks Palm Desert and the Salton Sea in southern California and provides visitors with access to hundreds of miles of terrain for exploration and enjoyment.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Horse Camping
- Horseback riding
- Mountain Biking
Fern Basin
The picturesque Fern Basin Campground is a perfect escape from a busy lifestyle. It provides peace and quiet in the mountains of southern California as well as access to countless recreational opportunities.
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Lookout Tower
- Mountain Biking
Marion Mountain
The Marion Mountain Campground offers a beautiful retreat in the San Bernardino National Forest. It provides access to a number of hiking trails that lead to some of the most spectacular views of Southern California.
- Biking
- Camping
- Fire Lookouts/Cabins Overnight
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
Black Mountain (San Bernardino)
Black Mountain Road is is poor condition at this time. 4 Wheel Drive is recommended. The road is currently a high-priority for maintenance, which should be occuring in June, 2023.
- Camping
- Climbing
- Fire Lookouts/Cabins Overnight
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Picnicking
Boulder Basin
Black Mountain Road is is poor condition at this time. A four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle is recommended with a minimum ground clearance of 6 inches. Drive at your own risk.
- Backpacking
- Biking
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Mountain Biking
- Picnicking
Sand to Snow National Monument
Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY.
- Accessible Swimming
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Photography
- Wildlife viewing
- Winter sports
30 to 75 miles (2)
Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge
The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is located in California’s Imperial Valley, 40 miles north of the Mexican border, along the southern end of the Salton Sea.
- Educational Programs
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Ranger programs
San Bernardino National Forest
- Biking
- Camping
- Climbing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horse Camping
- Horseback riding
- Hunting
Distances are straight-line miles from downtown Indian Wells. Listings come from Recreation.gov’s federal recreation database; check each official page for hours, fees, fire restrictions and closures before you go.
Get outside around Indian Wells
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
(Review)- Is this California’s BEST Desert Resort? 🌴 Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Room Tour
A local activity Short shared by Nivan Stklare.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
So Much to Explore at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells 👀🌴 | Part 3
A local activity Short shared by Stay Moving With a Purpose.
Watch on YouTube ↗Around Indian Wells
More outdoors near Indian Wells
Questions
Where is the closest place for fishing near Indian Wells?
Lake Cahuilla (Bureau of Reclamation), about 6 miles south of Indian Wells as the crow flies. Next are Ribbonwood Equestrian Cg (13 mi) and Fern Basin (25 mi).
Do I need a fishing license near Indian Wells?
Yes, anglers 16 and older generally need a California fishing license from the state wildlife agency. Rules, seasons and limits vary by water.
Who manages these places?
Federal agencies including USDA Forest Service, Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Land Management. Each listing links to its official page for hours, fees, closures and current conditions.