Desert camping near El Centro, California offers diverse options from full-service RV resorts to primitive sites. Temperatures in this Imperial Valley location regularly exceed 110°F during summer months, with winter lows dropping into the 40s. The region sits at approximately 50 feet below sea level, creating unique desert conditions and landscapes not found elsewhere in California.
What to do
Soak in hot springs: Holtville Hot Springs provides natural mineral pools for relaxing soaks just east of El Centro. "We loved this spot. FREE Dispersed camping is located just past power lines behind the actual hot springs... It is well maintained by camp host Bill," notes Chandra B. about Holtville Hot Springs Dispersed Site.
Golf year-round: Several campgrounds feature on-site golf courses for convenient tee times. "There is a 9 hole golf course on site and a nice sized pool. Many snow birds and year round campers. Mostly 55+," reports Chip K. about Desert Trails RV Park.
Use base amenities: Military campers have access to recreational facilities at NAF. "The base has a large pool with water slides, gym, bowling alley, exchange/commissary, and movie theater," shares Ashlie F. about military camping options near El Centro.
What campers like
Winter community atmosphere: Seasonal visitors create vibrant temporary communities during cooler months. "The best times are during the fall and winter months as the park welcomes back its community of Snow Birds coming from Canada and the northern US. During those times the atmosphere in the evening is always festive, often with live music and an outdoor bar," explains Glen C. about Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained campgrounds receive positive feedback from visitors. "Office people were nice and friendly. Place was clean with lots to do," shares Lori W. about Sunbeam Lake RV Resort.
Naval air shows: Proximity to military training facilities provides unique aircraft viewing opportunities. "Great location for the annual air show in March... You can actually take side roads and get right to the runway if you want... Blue Angles practice in Jan!" explains Michael about Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort.
What you should know
Summer heat considerations: Extreme temperatures impact amenity availability during summer months. "The temperatures in this area soar during the summer and are frequently above 110 degrees. During summer time the pool becomes too warm to be refreshing, and the restaurant and bar are closed," warns Glen C. about seasonal changes at Rio Bend.
Insects can be problematic: Several sites report significant fly populations. "Area was nice, no trash, host was nice, the only thing was there was A LOT OF FLIES. Other than the flies it's an good campground," reports Karin P. about Holtville Hot Springs.
Local food options: Small towns near campgrounds offer dining alternatives. "There is great food at The Holtville Taco Shop 7 miles from springs. The Del Sol market has great marinated chicken for the BBQ and the tortillas are best outside of Mexico I have found," recommends Chandra B.
Tips for camping with families
Consider proximity to noise sources: Some campgrounds have unexpected noise issues. "Unfortunately there is a very loud and semi-smelly cow farm next door. I was fine with earplugs but I wouldn't stay there without them," cautions Dan X. about Wiest Lake Park.
Check GPS directions carefully: Navigation systems may provide incorrect routes to some sites. "GPS will try to take you onto the wrong end of Williams Road, you need to go on Titsworth -> Smith -> then Williams," advises Robert S. about Finney Lake Camp.
Pack entertainment: Limited activities at some locations require bringing your own recreation options. Desert Trails RV Park offers a pool and golf, but families should pack games and activities for children, especially during quieter periods outside peak winter months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose sites with natural buffers when possible. "The sites are fairly spacious and generally separated by hedges so you are not looking directly at your neighbor's rig," notes Glen C. about Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort.
Limited pull-through availability: Premium sites require advance planning. "The pull throughs are limited with views of the pond and wide so plan ahead," advises Michael about site selection at Rio Bend.
Monthly rates available: Long-term stays offer potential savings. "We stayed here four nights," shares Michael, while Kelly P. notes "$850 a month" rates at Rio Bend for extended stays, providing context for budget planning.
