Mecca Beach Campground, near North Shore, California, is a unique destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and intriguing history. Set against the backdrop of the Salton Sea, this campground features sites with picnic tables and fire pits, perfect for enjoying the stunning sunsets and the peaceful ambiance of the area.

The campground provides essential amenities like drinking water and showers, although some campers have noted that the hot water can be hit or miss. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere, with one camper mentioning, “The views we had from our tent on the beach were beautiful,” highlighting the picturesque scenery that surrounds the area.

For those looking to explore, the nearby Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit, especially for birdwatchers. The beach itself has a unique quality, with barnacle-covered shores that tell the story of the Salton Sea's past. While some campers have mentioned the noise from passing trains, many find the overall experience to be worth it for the chance to camp in such an interesting location.

Mecca Beach Campground — Salton Sea State Recreation Area

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The Best Camping Near Coolidge Springs, California

A bit off the tourist path sits a sea which has been all but forgotten by most. Due to its levels of salinity much of the tourism which once befound the Salton Sea has long since passed. But for those looking for beautiful serene sunsets and an interesting campsite to write back home about, Mecca Beach Campground is just the right fit.

I have to admit, I personally am intrigued by the story behind the sea itself and that drew me to see what it was about. But nothing could have prepared me for the spectacle of the views. 

Vast mountains surround the peaceful looking lake. When arriving it appeared to be an unspoiled wonder with white sands in the midst of nothingness.  

We arrived and no one was on duty so we filed our slip and continued into the grounds to select our place. Much to our surprise, despite arriving close to 7:30 in the evening, it was near unoccupied so selection was open to our desire

We found a location toward the end of the beach tent road and enjoyed the views from a picnic table directly by the water. But walking toward the beach, it was not like a beach you would ever think to call beautiful.  

The white sands were in fact barnacles, long since left behind from fish and salts in the near abandoned lake. It was fascinating that something so beautiful could in fact have spawned from such tragedy. 

The campsite looked as though there was an original beach and a water line which had receded leaving behind the stories of its past through these deposits. There was no smell or death or sea instead only peace and quiet as the stars danced above us for a perfect night. 

As morning arose, a slightly different story. As the seas waters churned it revealed a slight stench of the past and flies were abundant near the camping area. On the shoreline it didn't seem to be the case with the flies so we are still a bit confused why the flies were so plentiful at the campsites where there was no sign of death.

It was a warm 76 and outside it felt great, still with almost a surreal quiet present. We opted not to shower here because they showers were outdoor showers which seemed to not have a warm option at all. Bathrooms were clean despite no reserve of park officials and overall the sites were nice.

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I'd give this campground a 3 of 5 Bunnies. Mainly because of the lack of presence of attendant and the showers. It can be expected to be a bit of a different kind of camping experience considering the history of the location. I will be posting a full blog soon with the story of the Salton Sea for full details. 

If you are looking for an interestin experience and amazing sunsets it is a must stop, just be prepared it's like no beach you have seen before!

A beach unlike you have ever seen for a camping experience like no other

We weren’t expecting to stay here but it ended up being such a good camping experience!! The views we had from our tent on the beach were beautiful and the site was super affordable. Site came with a picnic table, fire pit, and access to restrooms. We could hear the road and train at night, but it wasn’t the worst.

A beautiful surprise

Though Mecca campsite is bigger neither is ever busy I think.
Mecca has more trees and facilities g Fb or overnight, Corvina is a day use at best. 
Sites have fire rings and picnic tables. 
Come for sunset it’s beautiful! 


Mecca > corvina 

I recently had 2 generators and 3 gas cans stolen.  DON'T leave your generators out in full view.  Thieves carry bolt cutters.

nice, but not safe

The trains at night are very loud.  They feel miles long.  Cold shower felt great after all day in the sun.  This campground had lots of vacant sites, the one up the road seemed nearly full.  

Nice but 

Arrived after dark (5/8/21). Six big RVs and one tenter in this big campground. Trees provide shade; some sites have ramadas. Water available throughout. The beach has a moonscape quality. Sunrise over the lake lovely. Trains go by during the night (tracks are very close by), but didn't bother me. I'll return to spend a few days.

Salton Seaside

Full hook up. California State Park… so safe. The lake is improving but not safe yet. Fishing has Improved. There are three separate campgrounds in this park. Flies can be a problem but not this time because of wind. View is outstanding 

We loved it

Salton Sea is such an interesting place.  A bird haven for migrating birds - be sure to visit the Sonny Bono Refuge closeby.  This camp had $20 basic tent sites, some full hookup sites available- paved, some sites along beach.  One of the 2 loops were closed.  Showers - tho no hot water left when I got to them and most bathrooms boarded up and in disrepair.  Ample trash and recycling bins and water.  Friendly host and camp wood available at $10 a pop.  Check to see if sites are reserved at kiosk if you are coming without reservations.  

Photos of Mecca Beach Campground — Salton Sea State Recreation Area

Real photos from real campers