Ocotillo is a census-designated place in Imperial County, California. Ocotillo is located 26 miles west of El Centro, The population was 266 at the 2010 census, down from 296 at the 2000 census. It is part of the El Centro, California Metropolitan Statistical Area.Ocotillo was devastated by floods from Hurricane Kathleen in 1976; 3 people died. There are several cafes, a small market and a saloon that serves some food. There is a new Desert Museum with displays about the desert terrain, flora, etc. and artifacts from the Kumeyaay culture that inhabited the area. It is located on the south side of Interstate 8.