History

Established on December 18, 1950, as the Coachella Valley Recreation and Parkway District, we have evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of our residents.

Today, the Desert Recreation District is an award-winning agency proudly providing service second-to none for 16 Valley communities. We operate after-school programs in 37 locations serving thousands of children daily, as well as community centers, swimming pools and parks. Last year, participation in our programs exceeded 1 million.

Over the years, we have been honored to work with world-class organizations such as the Disney Institute, Ken Blanchard Companies, American Red Cross, The First Tee and the All American Soap Box Derby. We offer events like Desert Rock - free concerts featuring stars such as The Turtles, Grass Roots, Foghat, Dave Mason, Iron Butterfly and Tommy James. This year we look forward to a new relationship with the Tour de Palm Springs bike ride.

Although now 60, we will never be old. We will continue to adapt and change with the times. Unlike some, we want to be the first to try innovative programs and strive every day to be creative and unique.