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Dispersed Camping

Gordon’s Well Sand Dunes - Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Gordon’s Well Sand Dunes in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area features expansive sand dunes. Temperatures can range from 40°F in winter to over 100°F in summer. Nearby, visitors can explore the Algodones Dunes and the historic Plank Road.

Fee Info

Permits are required from October 1 through April 15 each year. Permits are $35 per week in advance and $50 per week if purchased onsite. Season permits are $150. Permits may be purchased here: https://isdpermits.net/

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Location

Gordon’s Well Sand Dunes - Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

32.7150362 N
114.94070018 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Gordon’s Well Sand Dunes - Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area needs a permit.


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5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Dec. 10, 2020

Ice cream anyone

My first time here we arrived a week before our friend group to secure a good location before the busy thanksgiving weekend and we were the only ones out by the dunes, but the ice cream truck still managed to find us! 😂

There are a lot of regulars who come to the dunes for group camping, and some of them have incredible set-ups, our neighbors rolled in with an 18 wheeler filled with side-by-sides, a flatbed filled with quads, and a hauler filled with bikes, along with 6 big rig RV’s.

This place isn’t actually free you need to buy either a weekly or season pass which runs from November to April ($35 or $150) and the longest you can stay is two weeks without moving your set-up. You can buy a pass at any ATV store or shop, but there is no way to buy one once you’re out here. Rangers and border patrol make the rounds to make sure everyone has a pass, and obeys all ATV rules on the dunes and sand drags.

There is trash at the entrance, slightly inside are toilets. Cell phone service is 5 stars (we work from our RV and had no issues), you can pay to dump and fill up water at the RV park a couple miles from here. The sand is soft, heavy rigs may need to air down.

This is not only a beautiful place, it is also a way of life, and a must do for anyone with a way to get out into the dunes.

  • Review photo of Gordon’s Well Sand Dunes - Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area by James , December 10, 2020
  • Review photo of Gordon’s Well Sand Dunes - Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area by James , December 10, 2020
  • Review photo of Gordon’s Well Sand Dunes - Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area by James , December 10, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Gordon's Well located and how do I access the sand dunes?

Gordon's Well Sand Dunes is located in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area in southeastern California near the Mexico border. The access point is off Interstate 8, approximately 30 miles east of El Centro. Take the Gordon's Well exit and follow the road south toward the dunes. This entrance provides direct access to some of the most popular duning areas in the recreation area, with immediate access to impressive sand formations. The location is popular for off-roading enthusiasts and group camping, especially during holiday weekends like Thanksgiving when the area gets particularly busy.

Is there a map of Imperial Sand Dunes and Gordon's Well camping areas?

Yes, maps of the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area and Gordon's Well camping areas are available. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) provides official maps that show designated camping areas, OHV routes, and restricted zones. You can obtain these maps at the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area visitor center or on the BLM website. Additionally, check with rangers on-site who can provide the most current information about camping areas and dune conditions. Having a map is essential for navigating the vast dune system safely and for identifying established camping areas.

What RV facilities are available at Gordon's Well campground?

Gordon's Well is primarily a primitive camping area with limited RV-specific facilities. There are no hookups for water, electric, or sewer at the camping areas. The area operates as dispersed camping where RVs can set up directly on the sand in designated zones. You'll need to be self-contained with your own water supply and waste management. Some vendors may occasionally drive through the area selling ice cream and basic supplies. The lack of facilities makes this location best suited for experienced boondockers with proper equipment for desert camping. Be prepared to pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste.