Desert camping near Salton City offers vast open landscapes in California's Imperial Valley at 236 feet below sea level. Temperatures range from 70-80°F in winter to 110-115°F in summer, with minimal rainfall throughout the year. The area's camping options range from primitive dispersed sites to developed campgrounds with varying levels of facilities.
What to do
Explore desert canyons: Near Arroyo Salado Primitive Campground, visitors can discover fascinating landscape formations. "From the 'Campground' there are trails that lead to Ocotillo Wells and Fonts Point. If you're looking for a place to camp near trails with a decent bathroom and nothing else, this is the place for you," notes camper John Y.
Experience unique art installations: Take a day trip to Bombay Beach - Salton Sea State Rec Area, where abandoned structures have been transformed by artists. "The town and the beach are just so... interesting. The artists are taking over the nearly abandoned town and it's really neat to see," says Laura M., who adds "Lots of documentaries about it on YouTube if you're interested."
Wildlife observation: The Salton Sea area hosts hundreds of bird species, particularly during migration seasons. The shallow waters and shorelines provide excellent viewing opportunities. "Great for bird watching bring binoculars. The sunrise and sunsets were some of the prettiest I've ever seen," shares Jeannie B. about her experience at Mecca Beach Campground.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Truckhaven at Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area offers exceptional stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. "Open desert area, free to use. Pack it in, pack it out! Night skies are spectacular!" reports Shainna M.
Uncrowded camping experiences: Many appreciate the solitude available at dog friendly campgrounds near Salton City. "We stayed in site 42 of New Campground. We had W/E (water pressure is really high) and the sites have plenty of rooms to spread out," notes Erin A. about her stay at Salton Sea Sra.
Budget-friendly options: Several free or low-cost sites exist throughout the area. "A beautiful spot to camp in your car or RV. Tons of stars at night. Road and train tracks nearby, so there is some sound, but after a long day driving there are few better places. I paid $10 per night. Apparently vets get discounts," reports Etienne H. about Corvina Beach Campground.
What you should know
Water considerations: Most dispersed camping areas require bringing all water supplies. At some developed campgrounds, water quality can be problematic. At Oasis Palms RV Resort, "the water (sourced from a well) is NOT SAFE to drink or cook with due to excessive arsenic and fluoride. There are however 3 locations in the park with reverse osmosis filters to fill water jugs," warns Dawn J.
Wind conditions: Strong winds frequently affect the area, particularly in spring months. "We had a lovely stay for two nights, the wind was quite strong so make sure you have good pegs and sandbags," advises Brett S. about camping at Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed.
Noise factors: Railroad tracks run parallel to several camping areas. "The trains at night are very loud. They feel miles long," notes Venice G. about Mecca Beach Campground. However, many campers find the occasional train noise a minor inconvenience compared to the benefits of the location.
Tips for camping with families
Morning explorations: Plan activities during cooler hours for comfortable experiences with children. "I've been camping here for 35 years. Great place to camp and offroad. Maps are easy to get and trails are well posted. Avoid big weekends and pack 3 times the amount of water that you think you would need," advises Kris K. about Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area.
Educational opportunities: The Salton Sea area offers unique learning experiences about desert ecology and water conservation. "It gets very crowded and NOISEY on weekends. They hand out trash bags and maps but somehow trash still ends up around all the campsites. The rangers are super kind and helpful!" reports Becca H.
Wildlife encounters: Some campgrounds offer memorable wildlife sightings for children. "The best part about this experience would have to be the local Kit Fox that joined us in the evening," shares Edwin M. about his stay at Arroyo Salado Primitive Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection caution: The sandy desert terrain requires careful assessment for larger vehicles. "We had a few different campers within 50 yards and saw 3 of them get bogged in 3 different spots - two were proper 4WD's and one took two tow trucks to get it out so beware and scope out your drive off the main trail first," warns Brett S. about Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed.
Hookup availability: Several campgrounds near Salton City offer partial or full hookups. "This review is for the New Camp campground. Some but not all sites have electrical hookups. There is a well maintained restroom with flush toilets and showers," notes Paul O. about Salton Sea SRA.
Generator considerations: In dispersed camping areas, prepare for self-sufficient power. "We spent two nights there and just had good ol'e fashion camping fun. Games, camp fire, etc.," shares Geoff H. about Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area, highlighting the simple pleasures of desert camping without extensive amenities.
