New Camp Campground — Salton Sea State Recreational Area

New Camp Campground offers several key amenities to enhance your stay. The facilities include clean showers and flush toilets, which are well-maintained by park staff. The campground provides convenient access to the lake with walking paths leading to the shore. Basic camping infrastructure is available for both tent and RV campers. While the campground offers these essential amenities, be prepared for the environmental factors of the area, including potential for hot temperatures depending on the season.

The optimal time to camp at the Salton Sea is during late fall, winter, and early spring (October through March). During these months, temperatures are typically mild and comfortable, ranging from the 60s to 80s during the day and cooler at night. Summer months (June through September) bring extremely high temperatures that regularly exceed 100°F, making camping uncomfortable and potentially dangerous without proper preparation. The cooler months also coincide with peak bird migration season, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Be prepared for potential wind regardless of season, and remember that noise from trains and nearby roads is present year-round.

Camping at New Camp Campground is generally safe from a facility perspective, with well-maintained grounds and regular staff presence. The main safety concerns are environmental factors rather than security issues. Noise pollution is significant, with frequent and extremely loud trains passing by, as well as considerable road noise that can disrupt sleep and the peaceful camping experience. Bringing ear plugs is highly recommended to mitigate these disruptions. As with any desert environment, be prepared for potential extreme temperatures and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.

New Camp Campground at Salton Sea State Recreation Area offers one of the better camping experiences in the region. The campground provides easy access to the lake with waterfront views and opportunities for bird watching. While there are other camping options around the Salton Sea, including Mecca Beach and Corvina Beach, New Camp stands out for its well-maintained grounds and proximity to the water. For those seeking a more developed camping experience with amenities, this state recreation area campground is typically preferable to the more primitive options elsewhere around the sea.