I think the ocotillo discussion really should be called split mountain rd, just south of ocotillo wells OHV area. its a designated BLM shooting area, even has signs reminding shooters to pick up trash. its about 3 ft past the sand diego/imperial county boarder. Last I heard san diego BLM tartget shooting was closed for fire danger.
I think if you google map split mountain road and follow it just outside the anza Borrego boundry its marked as a shooting location. I have been out there a few times in the last couple months to do exactly what you are doing. Sighting in optics. I was able to walk out and place targets at 300 yards and had a lot of space beyond that to keep going.
Its a typical desert shooting area. lots of junk left behind by inconsiderate a$$holes. weekends I hear its busy and a free for all as far as groups shooting and other groups running targets. I only go during the week, and haven't seen anther person out there shooting. Only a few 4x4s driving past.
Can anyone confirm if san diego BLM is really back open for target shooting?