Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Imperial, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.
"FREE Dispersed camping is located just past power lines behind the actual hot springs. To stay at the LTVA you must have self contained trailer, van, rv…we didn’t know this."
"Very Primitive location but beautiful in its own right."
"The park has campgrounds near borrego springs that are easily accessible. Visiting the mud caves you’ll need 4x4 or an AWD car with high clearance."
", caves were warmest the whole time
Road & Address: there were some soft sand spots, didn’t require a lot of clearance and I didn’t put my Jeep Compass into AWD at all."
"No hookups but you can stay for free on the bluffs. In some weather conditions the wind can be a bit much."
"Make your campsite anywhere, restrooms near by, driving distance to a few stores & gas station. Great camping & 4x4 in truck haven, cool off-road in event for Tierra Del Sol/TDS-in March"
"Beautiful spot near the lake with gorgeous views. Nobody as far as the eye could see, of course it’s 100 degrees, but I have a trailer and awning with netting."
"Lots of open space, just drive out and park. Might need an air down/up system depending on how far in you want to travel. No issues for the first 0.25-0.5 mile off the highway."
GuideAnza borrego state park has a lot of room to explore. The park has campgrounds near borrego springs that are easily accessible. Visiting the mud caves you’ll need 4x4 or an AWD car with high clearance. Anza borrego has been my wife & I go to camping area for over 5 years. Camping is allowed away from main trails and we typically sleep near the mud caves or within the slot canyons. Perfect place to star gave and wander around & explore. Bring plenty of water/ off road safety (enough fuel/ shovel/ traction boards) as towing out of this area is extremely expensive. (Pictures are from fonts point/ random hikes near camping spots).
GuideArea 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, there are pit toilets across the street at the hot springs along with trash cans.
ScoutGreat location if you plan on visiting Los Algodones, Mexico. Great cell signal. Dry camping. Close to I-8 so somewhat noisy. Large area so no close neighbors. 10 miles to Yuma with all of the shopping needed.
GuideGood if you need to get off the highway to catch some sleep. People shoot here so there’s shells, rusty metal, and broken glass everywhere.
TravelerIt’s technically the Republic of Slowjamistan.
Lots of open space, just drive out and park. Might need an air down/up system depending on how far in you want to travel. No issues for the first 0.25-0.5 mile off the highway.
ATV rentals available. There are some picnic tables and compost hole restrooms.
GuideWe loved this spot. FREE Dispersed camping is located just past power lines behind the actual hot springs. To stay at the LTVA you must have self contained trailer, van, rv…we didn’t know this. It worked out better-FREE camping and just a lil over an ¼ mile to the springs. It is well maintained by camp host Bill. Vault toilets, with TP & bonus 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. We will be back as the sunsets are too good not to experience over and over again…cold at night this time of year…
ScoutNo hookups but you can stay for free on the bluffs. In some weather conditions the wind can be a bit much.
GuideLocated South of Q Casino on way to boarder crossing. No amenities. Just a great place to park for free. Casino charges $10/nite for exact same amenities.
ScoutNo view of the sea. No office staff to check in with. Follow backroads & dirt roads to get here. Seemed like a place where people checked in & decided to live there. We did not stay. Did not feel comfortable.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Imperial, California, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of unique spots to explore, campers can enjoy the serenity of the outdoors while taking in stunning landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Imperial Beach dispersed camping located?
Imperial Beach dispersed camping options are located throughout Imperial County in Southern California. Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed is situated close to the highway, making it convenient for overnight stays. Other notable locations include Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, which offers numerous dispersed camping areas throughout its vast desert landscape. Many of these sites are accessible via dirt roads off major highways, with varying degrees of remoteness depending on how far you're willing to venture from main roads.
What amenities are available at Imperial dispersed camping areas?
Imperial dispersed camping areas typically offer minimal to no amenities, as they are primitive camping experiences. At Ocotillo Wells OHV Recreation Area, you'll find some picnic tables and compost toilets, while Truckhaven offers free camping on the bluffs but no hookups. Some sites like Holtville Hot Springs have pit toilets and trash cans nearby. Most dispersed sites require you to be fully self-contained with your own water, waste disposal, and power. Cell service varies by location, with better coverage near highways. Remember to pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Is dispersed camping allowed in Imperial Valley?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in several areas throughout Imperial Valley. Pilot Knob Long Term Visitor Area Dispersed Primitive offers free dispersed camping opportunities about 10 miles from Yuma. Holtville Hot Springs Dispersed Site also provides free camping areas behind the hot springs. Many of these sites are on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land where dispersed camping is permitted, typically with a 14-day stay limit unless designated as a Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA). Always check current regulations before setting up camp.
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