RV campgrounds near Imperial, California offer year-round camping options in the Imperial Valley region, with temperatures frequently exceeding 110°F during summer months. The area sees a significant population increase during winter when seasonal visitors from northern states and Canada arrive to enjoy the mild desert climate. Most facilities maintain extended-stay options with monthly rates ranging from $700-$850, with substantially reduced pricing during the extreme heat of summer.
What to do
Golf courses on-site: Several RV parks in Imperial County feature their own golf facilities. Desert Trails RV Park has "a 9 hole golf course on site and a nice sized pool" according to Chip K., who notes the park is "mostly 55+" in demographic. Joshua H. adds that Desert Trails offers "nine holes of golf course and the driving range and [is] central located."
Naval aviation viewing: El Centro NAF Campground provides unique opportunities to observe military aircraft. One reviewer mentions, "You can actually take side roads and get right to the runway if you want... Blue Angels practice in Jan!" The campground is also noted as having a "great location for the annual air show in March."
Off-roading access: Leapin' Lizard RV Ranch serves as a convenient base for off-road enthusiasts. Taylor notes, "Beautiful area, tons of shooting and off-roading nearby." The park provides easy access to the extensive desert trail systems popular with ATV and dirt bike riders.
What campers like
Winter community atmosphere: Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort becomes particularly vibrant during cooler months. Michael describes it as having "plenty of activities and facilities," while Kevin N. calls it a "Quiet Place to stay with a lot of amenities." Monthly rates average $850 during peak season.
Swimming pools with temperature considerations: Many RV parks maintain pools, though their usefulness varies by season. One reviewer at Rio Bend notes "During summer time the pool becomes too warm to be refreshing," while Leapin' Lizard RV Ranch features "a large pool and big hot tub all inside of a solid wall to prevent sand from blowing inside."
On-site dining options: Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort provides food service that receives mixed reviews. Karen B. reports, "We had dinner, wing's were great burger was good but not great. Service was very good." Ocotillo RV Resort also features dining with one visitor noting "awesome food at the diner" during their stay.
What you should know
Summer heat challenges: Summer temperatures consistently reach dangerous levels, affecting amenities and comfort. One reviewer at Ocotillo RV Resort mentioned, "We made reservations not knowing there around be a heat wave and the pool was closed. Other than that, it was a wonderful place to stay."
Price variations by season: Most parks offer substantial discounts during summer. At Rio Bend, "The rates are much lower in the summer," and Kelly P. notes the regular rate is "very expensive" at "$850 a month" during peak season.
Wind and sand management: Desert conditions require specialized facilities. Juliet L. at Leapin' Lizard appreciates how "Each spot is surrounded by trees which is very rare to find in the desert! It makes each spot private and helps hugely with keeping wind from blowing dirt into your spot."
Tips for camping with families
Military facility amenities: El Centro NAF Campground requires military credentials but offers extensive recreation. Ashlie F. notes, "The base has a large pool with water slides, gym, bowling alley, exchange/commissary, and movie theater." Access requirements are strict—"You must have base access/privileges in order to utilize this campground."
Multigenerational activities: Some parks specialize in activities for various age groups. At Fountain of Youth Spa RV Resort, Matt reports, "I've spent many weekends at this resort over the last 15 years or so, visiting my grandparents that lived here in the winter. Tons of activities, clean and quiet, such a wonderful spot!"
ATV rental availability: For families wanting to explore the surrounding desert, equipment rentals simplify logistics. Heather H. at Ocotillo RV Park appreciated that "we were able to rent a quad for the day."
Tips from RVers
Site privacy variations: Sunbeam Lake RV Resort offers spacious sites with good separation. Lori W. found it to be "A really nice little place" noting that the "place was clean with lots to do." Many parks use vegetation as natural dividers between camping spaces.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly by carrier and location. At Leapin' Lizard RV Ranch, "Phone service is spotty for ATT and Tmobile, but you'll have better service at the front of the campground."
Reservation flexibility: Several parks accommodate last-minute bookings, particularly outside winter months. Jennifer L. notes Leapin' Lizard is "mostly quiet although there are off road vehicles around they're not too irritating," while Lori W. appreciated that Sunbeam Lake was "able to get a last minute spot when we were about an hour away."
