Camping opportunities near El Centro include both established RV resorts and dispersed options in the Imperial Valley. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-75°F while summer months regularly exceed 110°F. The area sits at approximately 50 feet below sea level in California's southeastern desert region.
What to do
Golf year-round: Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort offers an on-site golf course that remains playable throughout winter months when northern snowbirds migrate to the area. "The grounds are well maintained, attractive, and lots of palms! Plenty of activities and facilities. It's close to the Navy base so fly overs of the Super Hornets are frequent but not loud," notes Michael in his review of Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort.
Visit Salvation Mountain: Located near Slab City, this colorful art installation makes for a unique day trip from El Centro campsites. A visitor to Slab City shares, "Salvation Mountain is pretty amazing and safe due to its state protected and at entrance into the Slabs so it's well traveled. So much LOVE went into it."
Explore desert art installations: The area features numerous outdoor art displays created from repurposed materials. "Do drive around the outskirts of the slabs some too and you'll find plenty of random desert art that Slabs City is known for," recommends one camper who visited the region.
What campers like
Seasonal community atmosphere: Winter months bring a vibrant temporary community to area campgrounds. "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," notes Glen C. about his stays at Rio Bend.
Hot springs access: Natural hot springs provide relaxation opportunities in this desert region. At Holtville Hot Springs Dispersed Site, campers appreciate the soaking options. "We loved this spot. FREE Dispersed camping is located just past power lines behind the actual hot springs... Vault toilets, with TP & bonus there is great food at The Holtville Taco Shop 7 miles from springs," shares Chandra B.
Spacious site layouts: Many El Centro area RV parks feature well-designed spacing between sites. "The sites are fairly spacious and generally separated by hedges so you are not looking directly at your neighbor's rig. Scenery around the park is beautiful any time of year," according to one reviewer.
What you should know
Summer heat considerations: Temperatures frequently exceed 110°F during summer months, affecting facilities. "During summer time the pool becomes too warm to be refreshing, and the restaurant and bar are closed. The rates are much lower in the summer," explains a Rio Bend visitor.
Insect activity varies seasonally: Some locations experience significant fly populations during warmer periods. A visitor to Holtville Hot Springs notes, "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."
Nearby food options: Several campgrounds have limited on-site food service, but local restaurants provide 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," reports a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Multiple RV parks offer swimming pools for family recreation. At Desert Trails RV Park, "We stayed 5 days there is a 9 hole golf course on site and a nice sized pool. Many snow birds and year round campers," notes Chip K.
Clean facilities: Families appreciate well-maintained restrooms and common areas. "Laundry and bathrooms were very clean. Pool area and restaurant, bar area is nice," shares Karen B. about her stay at a local resort.
Last-minute availability: Several campgrounds can accommodate unplanned overnight stays. A Sunbeam Lake RV Resort visitor mentions, "Great place. Was able to get a last minute spot when we were about an hour away. Office people were nice and friendly. Place was clean with lots to do."
Tips from RVers
Passport America discounts: Some parks honor discount camping memberships with specific restrictions. "This is also one of the few parks that accepts Passport America all days of the week. Note that Passport America discounts cannot be used with pull-through sites," advises a frequent visitor.
Pull-through availability: Limited premium sites may require advance booking at popular resorts. "We only stayed one night in a pull through but enjoyed the facilities. Park is very clean and has a good restaurant... Pull through site was narrow but had all we needed for one night," notes Karen B.
Water conservation planning: When using dispersed camping areas near El Centro, water access is limited. "Most staying are in travel vehicles of many kinds and have large water catchment systems as there is no sewer or water supply available," explains a camper describing the Finney Lake Camp area, where visitors should arrive self-sufficient.
