Best Campgrounds near Imperial, CA

Camping around Imperial takes you into the California desert, where the landscape shifts from hot springs to stark desert valleys. Agua Caliente County Park Campground draws many visitors with its natural hot springs and has both tent and RV spots with flush toilets and showers. If you want something more basic, Culp Valley Primitive Campground in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park has no built facilities but sits near good hiking trails with nice views. Blair Valley Primitive Campground gives you more space between neighbors with its spread-out sites. Most people camp here during fall and spring since summer gets dangerously hot. You might need a truck or SUV with good clearance to reach some sites, particularly after rain when roads wash out. Pack extra water and all your supplies because stores are far away. Watch for wildlife and know how to handle encounters safely. The area works well for hiking, looking at stars, and taking photos. Developed or primitive, these camping areas put you right in the desert environment. Make sure to pack out all trash and follow good camping practices. Check the weather forecast before you go - it can make or break your trip. Imperial's camping spots range from places with hot showers to completely undeveloped desert sites.

Best Camping Sites Near Imperial, California (88)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 88 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Imperial, CA

226 Reviews of 88 Imperial Campgrounds



Guide to Imperial

Camping near Imperial, California, offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to explore, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Culp Valley Primitive Campground. One reviewer said, "Access to great hikes from the campground," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Agua Caliente County Park Campground, you might spot desert bighorn sheep. A visitor mentioned, "The highlight was seeing some desert bighorn sheep!"
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies provide excellent opportunities for stargazing. One camper at Blair Valley Primitive Campground noted, "Enjoy the changing colors at dusk," perfect for night sky enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed states, "Absolutely incredible views, in my opinion better than the park itself!"
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peaceful environment. One camper at William Heise County Park shared, "It was quiet and clean," making it a great escape from city noise.
  • Accessibility: Campgrounds like Paso Picacho Campground are easy to reach. A visitor mentioned, "We spent 5 days here... The campground was nice and relatively empty during the week."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, such as Blair Valley Primitive Campground, lack facilities like drinking water and showers. A reviewer noted, "No facilities but good cell service."
  • Weather Considerations: The desert can get hot during the day and chilly at night. One camper at Culp Valley Primitive Campground mentioned, "It is consistently several degrees cooler than the others in Anza."
  • Crowds on Weekends: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed said, "I arrived at 5pm and already almost all spots were taken."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like William Heise County Park, which offers amenities like picnic tables and clean restrooms. A family shared, "The campsites were spacious and well-equipped."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground said, "There’s a trailhead to the oasis right in the campground."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and layers for chilly nights. A visitor at Paso Picacho Campground noted, "It started out great... but it got cold at night."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Culp Valley Primitive Campground warned, "Don’t go in with any big rigs very tight."
  • Look for Hookups: If you need amenities, consider campgrounds like Agua Caliente County Park Campground, which offers electric hookups. One camper mentioned, "Clean facilities and well-kept grounds."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: The desert can be dusty, so bring a good dust cover for your RV. A visitor at Chiriaco Summit Dry Camp Area noted, "It can be hot and there are not amenities at the campground itself."

Camping near Imperial, California, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Imperial, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Imperial, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 88 campgrounds and RV parks near Imperial, CA and 27 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Imperial, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Imperial, CA is Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Imperial, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 free dispersed camping spots near Imperial, CA.

What parks are near Imperial, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Imperial, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.