Dispersed camping opportunities surround Imperial, California in the southeastern desert region. Campers can find both developed RV resorts with full amenities and primitive BLM land sites for boondocking experiences. The Imperial Valley sits at an elevation of approximately -50 feet below sea level, creating unique camping conditions with access to desert terrain, agricultural areas, and nearby water features.
What to do
OHV adventures at Glamis Dunes: The Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area provides extensive off-road vehicle terrain just east of Imperial. At Holtville Hot Springs Dispersed Site, campers can combine off-roading with hot spring soaking. "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 one visitor.
Golf outings year-round: Several campgrounds feature on-site golf courses for winter recreation when temperatures are moderate. Desert Trails RV Park offers a 9-hole course with driving range. According to a camper, "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. Mostly 55+."
Water recreation opportunities: Lakes near Imperial provide fishing and water activities despite the desert environment. Wiest Lake Park offers lakeside camping with water hookups. "Lake is super lovely, clean bathrooms with showers. Sites have charcoal grills, but no ground fires allowed," reports one camper.
What campers like
Winter climate for seasonal residents: The mild winter temperatures attract long-term visitors escaping colder regions. At Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort, "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."
Amenities at established resorts: Full-service campgrounds provide comfortable accommodations with multiple recreation options. "We only stayed one night in a pull through but enjoyed the facilities. Park is very clean and has a good restaurant... Laundry and bathrooms were very clean. Pool area and restaurant, bar area is nice," notes a Rio Bend visitor.
Base proximity for military enthusiasts: The Naval Air Facility El Centro attracts aviation buffs and military personnel. El Centro NAF Campground provides convenient access for those with military credentials. "Great location for the annual air show in March. This campground is popular with 'snowbirds'. Winter months stay pretty busy, while excessive heat in the summer keeps it pretty empty," reports a military camper.
What you should know
Summer heat limitations: Temperatures regularly exceed 110°F during summer months, affecting camping conditions and facility operations. A Rio Bend visitor notes, "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."
Insect considerations: Desert camping brings natural challenges with wildlife. At Finney Lake Camp, visitors report: "Pretty lake, but swarming with flies and a bit of an odor. GPS will try to take you onto the wrong end of Williams Road, you need to go on Titsworth -> Smith -> then Williams."
Noise factors: Agricultural operations can impact camping experiences. Near Wiest Lake Park, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Facilities with recreational options: Choose campgrounds with multiple activities for children. "The base has a large pool with water slides, gym, bowling alley, exchange/commissary, and movie theater," notes a visitor about El Centro NAF Campground.
Last-minute availability: Some resorts can accommodate spontaneous family trips. At Sunbeam Lake RV Resort, one camper found: "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."
Seasonal planning considerations: Schedule family trips during moderate temperature periods. "We have stayed here a few times now. The best times are during the fall and winter months," advises a Rio Bend visitor, noting summer temperatures frequently exceed 110 degrees.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Look for resorts with landscaping between sites. At Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort, "The sites are fairly spacious and generally separated by hedges so you are not looking directly at your neighbor's rig."
Utilities and hookups: Most established campgrounds offer full hookups with sewer connections. "Pull through site was narrow but had all we needed for one night," notes a Rio Bend visitor about the convenience of drive-through sites with hookups.
BLM camping regulations: For dispersed camping, understand the rules and amenities. At Holtville Hot Springs, "To stay at the LTVA you must have self contained trailer, van, rv...It worked out better-FREE camping and just a lil over an ¼ mile to the springs. Vault toilets, with TP & bonus there is great food at The Holtville Taco Shop 7 miles from springs."
