Best Campgrounds near Imperial, CA

The Imperial Valley region of Southern California features a mix of established RV resorts and dispersed desert camping opportunities. Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort and Sunbeam Lake RV Resort offer cabin accommodations alongside traditional RV and tent sites, while the surrounding Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas provide more primitive options. Holtville Hot Springs, located approximately 20 miles east of Imperial, offers dispersed camping with natural hot springs. The area's proximity to the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area and Salton Sea creates diverse camping experiences ranging from developed facilities with full hookups to remote desert boondocking.

Desert conditions dominate the camping experience with extreme temperature variations requiring careful planning. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, making fall through spring the primary camping seasons. "The desert gets realllll cold at night. But the sunsets and the off roading made it worth it!" noted one camper about Ocotillo Wells. Many dispersed sites on BLM land have 14-day stay limits but lack amenities like water or restrooms. Cell coverage is generally good throughout the region due to flat terrain, though remote areas may have spotty service. Campgrounds near Imperial typically offer water and electric hookups, with several providing full RV connections including sewer hookups and 50-amp electrical service.

Recreational opportunities heavily influence camping choices in the area, with off-highway vehicle (OHV) activities being particularly popular. The Imperial Sand Dunes, locally known as Glamis, attract thousands of off-road enthusiasts during cooler months. According to one visitor, "If you like to drive offroad, this is the place for you! Even if you don't, it's fun to sled down the dunes." Several campgrounds near golf courses cater to snowbirds and long-term visitors seeking winter warmth. Water recreation at the Salton Sea provides another draw despite environmental challenges. Campers seeking quieter experiences can find more secluded spots in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park area northwest of Imperial, where primitive camping is permitted away from developed roads in designated areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Imperial, California (88)

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Recent Reviews near Imperial, CA

230 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.