Tent camping near Calexico, California takes place in extreme desert conditions, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 110°F and winter nights dropping below 40°F. The region sits at elevations ranging from 42 feet below sea level at the Imperial Valley floor to the surrounding dune systems that rise to about 300 feet above sea level. The camping terrain consists primarily of sand dunes, hard-packed desert flats, and rocky washes with minimal natural shade.
What to do
Dune riding adventures: Imperial Sand Dunes RA - Pad 5 offers extensive riding areas for off-road enthusiasts with varying skill levels. The recreation area provides designated routes for ATVs, motorcycles and dune buggies. One camper notes, "Sand and more sand for days!!!! Super fun place, lots to do. Take your sand dune buggies and enjoy the day and night."
Hiking palm groves: Bow Willow Primitive Campground serves as a gateway to several desert hiking trails, including routes to palm oases. A visitor mentions, "Easy to get to, sites are in good shape very quiet at night beautiful views. Nice hike to a palm grove."
Desert stargazing: The clear desert skies provide exceptional night viewing away from light pollution. When camping at Glamis Flats, visitors can experience unobstructed views of constellations across the open desert. A camper describes it as having "awesome vibes" during evening hours.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Several camping areas require no fee or minimal payment. Cement Flats provides a convenient free option for travelers. One camper states, "Great boondocking site on our drive to San Diego! You can't beat the price!"
Open camping layout: The expansive desert terrain allows for flexible site selection at many locations. At Glamis Flats, one visitor describes the arrangement: "RVs are parallel parked, several deep. Mostly dunes vs washes. Beautiful dunes for miles."
Winter solitude: The desert region transforms during cooler months, becoming more accessible and comfortable. Bow Willow Primitive Campground offers a serene experience: "We spent the day adventuring in Borrego and stumbled upon this site. It was completely empty and looked well taken care of. We were there before sunset and everything was so pink, it was gorgeous!!"
What you should know
Water planning required: Nearly all campgrounds lack water sources, requiring careful advance planning. A visitor to Bow Willow Primitive Campground shares, "This campsite was first come first serve. We set up quickly and enjoyed ourselves a walk around the site. Not too many trailheads around and it was very hot and dry but we enjoyed it."
Bathroom facilities: Most locations offer only basic vault toilets with no running water. Regarding Glamis Flats, a camper notes, "Small pit toilets that seem to be cleaned often but still smell, no water available and there are always beer cans thrown in the bathrooms."
Weather extremes: The desert climate demands preparation for significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. A visitor to El Centro NAF Campground explains, "Winter months stay pretty busy, while excessive heat in the summer keeps it pretty empty."
Permit requirements: Some areas require special permits for camping and vehicle use. At Glamis Flats, a visitor advises, "Must purchase imperial dunes pass" before setting up camp or using off-road vehicles in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Bring entertainment options beyond off-roading for children. At Glamis Flats, a camper suggests, "Not much to do if you don't like off-roading. There are places to rent ATVs and side by sides if you don't have your own."
Sand toys: Pack sand sledding equipment for family entertainment on the dunes. One camper at Glamis Flats recommends, "Even if you don't [drive offroad], it's fun to sled down the dunes."
Safety considerations: Designate clear boundaries for children in the dune environment. A visitor warns about Glamis Flats, "Go with someone familiar with the area, as heading off into the dunes can be dangerous: you can get lost super easy!"
Tips from RVers
Four-wheel drive essential: Sandy terrain requires appropriate vehicles for access. A camper at Glamis Flats advises, "Bring a tent or a trailer and make sure you have 4 wheel drive."
Military facilities option: For eligible military personnel, El Centro NAF Campground offers more amenities than public land camping. A reviewer notes, "The sites near the gym are back in only with full hookups on an asphalt lot. There is a small strip of grass behind each site. The base has a large pool with water slides, gym, bowling alley, exchange/commissary, and movie theater."
Site selection timing: Arrive early at first-come, first-served sites, especially in winter. During peak season at Glamis Flats, "On a holiday weekend this isn't a concern cuz it's ridiculously packed and loud."
