Traffic Jams at Coachella Festival: Rancho 51 Campsite Offers Relief for Attendees

As Coachella Festival kicks off, the city of Indio has experienced a significant increase in traffic, with campers flocking to claim their spots ahead of the weekend’s festivities. The heavy congestion was most noticeable early in the morning, with streets backed up as festival-goers made their way to the main campsite.

Brett Rosen reports live from Rancho 51, a popular alternative campsite for Coachella attendees, where things have been relatively calm so far. Claudia, the owner of Rancho 51, mentioned that while the site isn’t packed yet, she expects more campers to arrive later tonight. Rancho 51 is considered a less congested option for those trying to bypass the main traffic flow heading into Coachella's main grounds.

Kris Gunterson, program manager for CVSync, shared insights into the traffic situation, particularly around the southern end of Indio. “Lines of cars were out on Monroe Street, trying to get into the main Coachella Festival Camp,” Gunterson noted. “We’re trying to keep traffic flowing, with most cars staying on the outside lanes to ensure the inside lanes stay open.”

For many, the biggest draw to Rancho 51 is the ease of avoiding the main festival's traffic jams. Campers at this site enjoy perks like glamping tents, a pool, and a cold plunge, along with a shuttle service that makes their commute to the festival grounds feel like a breeze. “It’s one of the biggest parts of why we come back here year after year,” said one visitor.

While arrival day presents the most traffic, experts advise that departure day can be just as challenging. To avoid delays, it's recommended that people complete their errands either before 8 a.m. or after 11:30 a.m., when the bulk of festival traffic is on the freeway.

Later this evening, Brett Rosen will share more from a camper at Rancho 51, who will explain why they specifically choose this campsite to sidestep the usual traffic chaos of Coachella Festival.

Stay tuned to NBC Palm Springs for more updates on the Coachella traffic situation throughout the festival weekend.