Calipatria State Prison Overview

Calipatria State Prison, located in Imperial County, California, is a high-security male-only correctional facility that opened in 1992. It was designed to address the state’s growing prison population and is located in the low desert region, making it one of the lowest-altitude prisons in the western hemisphere. The prison has a capacity of around 2,308 inmates but frequently operates above that limit, with recent counts showing an occupancy of about 2,543. The facility primarily houses Level III and Level IV inmates, which includes those classified as medium to maximum security

Prisoners at Calipatria State Prison often face harsh conditions due to overcrowding, high temperatures, and limited access to outdoor areas. Despite the challenges, the institution provides various educational, vocational, and rehabilitative programs to support inmate reentry into society​

Calipatria State Prison

Contact Information for Calipatria State Prison

  • Address: 7018 Blair Road, Calipatria, CA 92233
  • Phone Number: (760) 348-7000
  • Visitor Information Line: 1-800-374-8474
  • Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5001, Calipatria, CA 92233-5001
  • Inmate Mailing Addresses:
    • Facility A: P.O. Box 5004, Calipatria, CA 92233
    • Facility B: P.O. Box 5005, Calipatria, CA 92233

Visiting Information for Calipatria State Prison

Visiting an inmate at Calipatria State Prison requires being on the inmate’s approved visiting list. Visitors can be added by the inmate, or a visiting questionnaire can be submitted. Valid government-issued ID is required for entry, and all visitors must be at least 18 years old unless accompanied by a legal guardian. Visitation days are typically on weekends, and visits last for several hours, depending on the inmate’s custody level​

Visitors should bring essentials like their ID and money for vending machines but avoid bringing restricted items such as cell phones or large bags. Visiting areas offer a family-friendly environment where inmates can connect with loved ones

How to Book a Visit at Calipatria State Prison

To book a visit at Calipatria State Prison, you must first ensure that you’re on the inmate’s approved visitor list. The prison offers an online portal for scheduling visits, and phone bookings are also available through the Visitor Information Line. When booking, you’ll need the inmate’s CDCR number, your ID details, and a list of attendees (up to four adults and unlimited minors, depending on the prison’s regulations). The visits are conducted under controlled conditions with strict security protocols​

How to Get to Calipatria State Prison

Calipatria State Prison is located in California’s desert region, about 150 miles east of San Diego. The prison is accessible via Route 111, which connects to Interstate 8. Visitors can find limited on-site parking, though it’s advisable to arrive early on visiting days as spaces fill up quickly. The weather can be extreme, with temperatures often reaching over 100°F in the summer, so visitors should dress appropriately and be prepared for long wait times​

What is Life Like Inside Calipatria State Prison?

Inmates at Calipatria State Prison live under strict security, particularly those classified as Level III and IV. The prison is known for its tough conditions, including overcrowded cells, harsh desert weather, and a high level of violence between inmates. However, it also offers rehabilitative programs aimed at improving inmates’ chances of reintegrating into society. These include education (from basic literacy to GED programs), vocational training, and mental health services​Recent incidents include prison riots and violence among inmates, underscoring the challenging environment. However, efforts continue to provide resources for those seeking to reform through educational and vocational training 

Famous Prisoners at Calipatria State Prison

Several notorious inmates have been housed at Calipatria State Prison, including:

  • Angelo Buono Jr. – One of the “Hillside Stranglers,” a serial killer who terrorized Los Angeles in the late 1970s, died of a heart attack in Calipatria in 2002
  • James Fagone – Convicted accomplice in a high-profile murder case​
  • Alexander Hernandez – A serial killer convicted for multiple murders in Southern California​

FAQs About Calipatria State Prison

  • Where is Calipatria State Prison located?
    Calipatria State Prison is located at 7018 Blair Road, Calipatria, CA 92233, in Imperial County.

  • How do I book a visit at Calipatria State Prison?
    Visits can be booked online through the CDCR website or by calling the Visitor Information Line.

  • What security levels are at Calipatria State Prison?
    The prison houses Level I (minimum security) to Level IV (maximum security) inmates, with the majority being in Level III and IV​

  • What is the capacity of Calipatria State Prison?
    The prison has a capacity of around 2,308 inmates but often holds over 2,500​

  • Are there rehabilitation programs available?
    Yes, inmates have access to educational, vocational, and substance abuse programs to help with reentry into society

  • What are the visiting hours at Calipatria State Prison?
    Visitation typically takes place on weekends, with specific hours dependent on the inmate’s custody level

  • Who was Angelo Buono Jr.?
    Angelo Buono Jr. was one of the “Hillside Stranglers” and died while incarcerated at Calipatria

  • How can I contact an inmate at Calipatria State Prison?
    Inmates can receive mail, and their addresses depend on the facility they are housed in, as provided on the CDCR website

  • What is the weather like in Calipatria?
    The area experiences desert conditions, with extremely hot summers and cool winters​

  • How can I send money to an inmate at Calipatria?
    Money can be sent through CDCR’s authorized vendors or via mail to the inmate’s designated funds account​(

     

Conclusion

Calipatria State Prison is a high-security facility in California that houses some of the state’s most dangerous offenders. Despite the tough conditions, the prison offers several programs aimed at rehabilitation and preparing inmates for eventual reintegration. For more detailed information, visit the official 

Visit California Substance Abuse Treatment Facility