The Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District (RivCoParks) has announced that Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park in La Quinta will remain operational for the next 30 years following the approval of new agreements during the Tuesday meeting of the Riverside County Board of Supervisors.
The park, located near the Santa Rosa Mountains, has been leased from the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation since 1971.
It offers a variety of recreational amenities, including camping, equestrian opportunities, a summer swimming pool, hiking trails, and fishing at the lake.
Supervisor V. Manuel Perez, who represents the area, expressed his support for the agreements, highlighting their importance in preserving the park and enhancing community spaces.
“These agreements represent a continued commitment to preserving and enhancing our community spaces for generations to come,” he told Uken Report.
“By working together, we are ensuring that Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park remains a cherished destination that honors our veterans and provides valuable recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.”
The new agreements come after efforts by multiple stakeholders to secure the park’s future. Kyla Brown, general manager for RivCoParks, thanked the partners who played a role in maintaining the park’s operation.
“When the continued operation of Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park was in jeopardy, our partners truly stepped up to support the county as we sought solutions,” she said.
“The City of La Quinta, Desert Recreation District, American Legion of Indio, Coachella Valley Water District, veterans, community members, and local community groups came to the table and the result is 30 more years for this important regional park.”
In addition to the new lease, the park is undergoing $11 million worth of improvements funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
These updates include road repairs, expanded parking areas, renovations to the swim lagoon facility, restroom updates, and the addition of pickleball and basketball courts. Enhanced campground amenities will also be introduced, such as a new stage, picnic tables, fire pits, RV pedestals, upgraded fishing area shelters, and new landscaping.
The Armed Forces Tribute Area will also be updated to recognize the U.S. Space Force, the newest branch of the armed services, which was established in 2019. The improvements are expected to be completed by late summer or early fall of 2025.
RivCoParks will also host a community celebration in the fall of 2025 to mark the completion of the upgrades and the renewal of the park’s lease.
Furthermore, a master plan for the park is being developed this year, with input from community members and veterans to help shape the future of the park and ensure it continues to meet the needs of visitors.
