Camping near Imperial

·

In the Imperial Valley just north of the US-Mexico border in southeast California, Imperial offers campers plenty of options and opportunities for outdoor adventures. RV campers will find amenities at several RV parks near the city, while waterfront camping is also nearby—go fishing, water skiing, and camp with full hookups at Wiest Lake County Park; go boating and camp along the water at the Salton Sea State Recreation Area; and escape the crowds for fishing and water skiing along the Colorado River and Taylor Lake at Picacho State Recreation Area. Off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding is another popular Imperial activity, typically enjoyed at the BLM-run Imperial Sand Dunes (Glamis Dunes) and Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area, both prime areas for dispersed camping. Desert adventures, wildlife, and developed and primitive camping can also be found at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, a hot spot for spring wildflowers set about an hour northwest.

97% (537)

Top-rated campgrounds

rock tub #1 with the big pool in the background

1. Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

99%
(221)
42mi from Imperial · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bombay Beach, CA
The desert is really lovely right now, and so are the mineral baths. We have no lodging here, so park your RV or car or set your tent up right next to outdoor hot mineral baths where pure water flows from under the desert at 124 degrees then we let it cool down to whatever temperature feels right. Only 1 group (max 6) at a time so it will always be private, and we are very conscientious of our guest's privacy, but are always available for questions via text or phone. Check out our IG here! https://www.instagram.com/hotspringsorganicfarm/ Located in a rural desert setting 1 hour south of Indio, in the morning shadow of the Chocolate Mountains, this is a working farm growing 7 varieties of organic dates: medjool, barhi, khadrawi, halawi, khalas, dayri and zahidi.   Ideal bath times are nighttime and early morning, and day soaks are an option too if you live locally and just want to spend a few hours soaking.  We have a private driveway and fenced property and there are no nearby homes. It is an extremely safe neighborhood here...never having a single incident of theft, vandalism or intrusion in the 19 years of residence. This is where the beautiful natural hot healing waters flow out of the earth as described in the famed "Desert Magazine" article of November 1956 "Little Yellowstone on the Salton Shores". A very remarkable but little-known secret in the California desert. 18 years of date harvests have made life and residence purposeful here on this 7-acre flank of the Chocolate Mountains. Desert Magazine (1956) describes the hot water here to be "richer in mineral content than any spa water in the United States excepting those in the Yellowstone Park area. Here then was mineral water rivaling that of Spa Royat in France; Bad-Nauheim in Germany; and Marianbad in Czechoslovakia. Here was water superior to that which the royal heads of Europe had paid princely sums to use." 2-wheel drive vehicles, including cars are all one needs to reach the farm.  Some wild deer in the neighborhood, but also bighorn sheep, fox, coyote, bobcat, hawks, owls, lizards, geckos and rabbits. Native artifacts have been discovered on the property and our desert nights are free of light pollution.  Private hot springs on small farms are extremely rare anywhere in America, but especially within 2 and 1/2 hours of greater Los Angeles. This is a really great place to empty your head out and enjoy the lovely weather and an even better place to get and stay healthy in these unpredictable times. This place is ideally suited for health-oriented folks. No tobacco, alcohol, vaping, cannabis or drugs allowed. And in the pools no lotions, perfume, hair care products, makeup, or sunscreen. No food or glass near the pools, and we are not set up for small kids or pets. Cookstoves are okay here, just no campfires due to an excess of brush in the region. Verizon and AT&T and T Mobile phone service all work well here. We are 4 miles from Bombay Beach, 35 minutes from Mecca, 1 hour and 20 minutes from Palm Springs, 1 hour from the Coachella Music Festival location, in the direction with light traffic. 1 hour and 30 minutes from Joshua Tree south entrance, 1 hour and 10 minutes from La Quinta and 2 hours and 30 minutes from Los Angeles area and 2 hours 30 minutes from San Diego area. We are 30 minutes to Salvation Mountain/The Slabs and 1 hour 10 minutes to Painted Canyon (The Slot Canyons in the Mecca Hills).  The last half mile before our gate is a dirt road that can have seasonal ruts and washboard surface from off-roaders, so passenger cars will need to take it slow but can still make it.  We are not a posh resort, and because it's a farm there are a few odd structures and tools on the property, but that's just part of the art. The rock pools and hot water baths are lovely at night under the stars near the palms, and that's what this place is all about.   This farm is in the low (elevation) desert, where the winter days are warm with springtime-like weather from November - March.   The colder high desert areas in the Morongo Basin (Joshua Tree, 29 Palms etc.) are more popular tourist destinations, but sometimes they are so popular that the traffic can be as bad as any city, with no flowing water and the Bighorn Sheep are hiding away deep in the boulders. The low desert has nicer winter days, hot springs, flowing water, far less traffic and more places to observe wildlife.   Bring flip flops, towels and flashlights.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$72
 / night
#1 Home Base - Potluck after a Meditation & Yoga hike with Jacumba Hikers

3. In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

99%
(115)
34mi from Imperial · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jacumba Hot Springs, CA
Property is located in the High Desert area of E. San Diego County in the In-Ko-)Pah Mountains. 5 camp sites to choose from and one (1) glamping unit "Casa Agave" which is a small home the sleeps four (4). One queen bed, 1 single and a sofa bed that sleeps one. To the west is Table Mountain a sacred Native American Ceremonial Ground that is on BLM land. The Northern boundary is the beginning Anza Borrego State Park. The East and South borders are private land. There is much evidence of campsites and artifacts that the land used to be inhabited by the Kumeyaay Nation. Mica and Garnets used to be mined in this area as well. The property is a transitional area where agave, juniper and scrub oak thrive. Wildlife in the area includes: Quail, Rattle Snakes, Lizards, Ravens, Roadrunners, Tarantulas, Rosy Boa, Mule Deer, Pack Rats, Bob Cats, Coyotes and at times Bighorn Sheep are spotted by Table Mountain. I have 10 chickens, 2 cats and my dog Bosco.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
DeAnza Springs

5. DeAnza Springs Resort

94%
(18)
38mi from Imperial · 65 sites · Tents, RVs · Jacumba, CA
DeAnza Springs Resort is a family friendly resort in North America. Situated on more than 500 private acres of high desert (2600 feet above sea level) in Eastern San Diego County, it is ideal for year-round vacationing. The Resort is comprised of 311 spacious RV sites, most with full hookups, (30/50 amps) and unlimited tent sites for camping. Comfortable rental units consist of fully furnished tiny homes and motel rooms. Centerpiece to the Resort is a 7500 square foot clubhouse. It is home to the Oasis Lounge/Bar and cafe. There is also a computer area for public internet access. No matter what activities you enjoy, you’ll probably find them available at DeAnza Springs Resort. Surrounded on three sides by the wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the resort grounds include grassy lawns, shade trees, two sparkling swimming pools and a hot tub with access to hiking trails in every direction. Amenities include two swimming pools open year round (one indoor heated and one outdoors), an outdoor hot tub, tennis/pickle ball courts, shuffle-board courts, fitness center with sauna, and laundry facilities. There is also a large enclosed pet park and WiFi broadband internet access.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$63
 / night
Post dinner with a good drink in hand. Keep your eyes on the sky, its quite the show out there.

7. The Desert View Tower

98%
(261)
33mi from Imperial · 3 sites · Tents · Jacumba, CA
Loaded with history, and set on the "La Posta Pluton," we are 3000 feet above the California's Imperial Valley. Sitting on this land is the historic Desert View Tower, which will turn 100 years old in 2020. The view of the tower couldn't be in a more epic setting. The sunsets, stars and views are world class. Tent camping in the area doesn't get much better than this.Learn more about this land:PLEASE CHECK IN BEFORE DARK.***If you are showing up after dark, we unfortunately cannot accommodate you. Must arrive before 4 in the winter months, 7pm in the summery months.***Winds here can be ferocious. A day ahead of time check the weather for Boulder Park CA (That's us). We will happily change for another date.No road access to the camp sites. Tent camping only. No RV spaces available.The Desert Tower is a 93 acre property in the midst of a great field of boulders on a hillside cliff overlooking California's Imperial Valley. One can camp anywhere in the rocks you like...there are tons of hidden gems out there with some great views. There is a sandy area in front of the tower that is very nice and close to the bathrooms -- Enjoy the views and the nighttime stars!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

11. Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

99%
(141)
51mi from Imperial · 6 sites · Lodging · Mount Laguna, CA
Alter Experiences LLC is a glamping & nature travel company based out of San Diego, CA. We're dedicated to creating meaningful experiences in nature & getting people outdoors. Our glamping sites are located in the Cleveland National Forest - Mount Laguna, CA. Our plush tents are nestled in the high mountain forests of San Diego's backcountry - sky islands where pristine nature & wild-life thrives. These are some of the most remote & biologically diverse habitats in all of Southern California. Our sites are handpicked to offer you a truly nature immersive experience. We strive to create the most comfortable outdoor experiences, even at our most remote locations. We take all that's fun about traditional camping & combine it with modern comfort & state of the art equipment. We offer various accommodation styles depending on location. Our Tentsile tree tents are definitely the most popular - a lightweight tree house that uses 3 anchor points to create a "living space" suspended between trees. Our elevated tree tents bring a whole new dimension to camping. Our plush & cozy bell tent was designed with the ultimate comfort in mind! It feature all the amenities you can expect at a hotel - therapeutic mattress, buddy heater, quality linens and more. The provided kitchen comes fully outfitted with everything you need including; hot chocolate, tea, spices and multiple cooking tops. All you need to bring is your cooler and food! Open fires are allowed (weather permitting) and bundles of wood are sold at $8. There are a network of trails to explore nearby, as well as Lake Cuyamaca and the historic town of Julian. You can choose from various restaurants, breweries wineries and we also have two hard cider locations, as well as various other attractions and activities. We also offer mountain bike rentals right from the campsite. Glamp with us and discover all the beautiful and natural wonders of our San Diego Backcountry.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$113
 / night
Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

12. Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

100%
(4)
34mi from Imperial · 5 sites · RVs · Bombay Beach, CA
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Bee Land! 5 acres of off-the-grid earth: desolate, empty and stunning! This is a property for those who really want to experience the desert at night. Camp under the stars, near the Salton Sea. You will be surrounded by the mountains and endless sky. There is nothing else except the stark beauty of this completely undeveloped landscape. However, you are 5 miles from Bombay Beach, 8 miles from Niland and Slab City. Take a day trip to Palm Springs , Joshua Tree, or the other side of the Salton Sea. Go off roading! Hike the Chocolate Mountains! Lay on one of the beaches along the Salton Sea. There’s so much do if you are open to the total experience of what desert life can provide. You never know who you will meet! Perfect alternative to the over-priced airbnbs for the Bombay Beach Biennale. Update: There is now a clearcut, straight path leading out to the property directly from the main road. There is also an entrance and property markers. All details and directions will be provided after booking is formalized.
Pets
from 
$36
 / night
Salton Sea Nymphs

15. Salton Sea Nymphs

100%
(1)
40mi from Imperial · 1 site · RV · Thermal, CA
Salton Sea Nymphs is a future art project and roadside destination. By staying here, you will contributing to the project coming to life and projects to help remedy the sea. WHAT TO DO This is a great RV spot to explore the Salton Sea, stargaze, or crash for a night during your road trip. You can also ATV the heck out of the place (you'll see the path directly at the back of the property). You may tent camp, but there are days/nights where it can get very windy. Check the forecast. UPDATE: There is a recently installed fire pit to help you stay warm or cook up a feed. Be safe and have at it. PLEASE NOTE: Ground is very soft. I did have a friend drive an RV on it without issue, but just be aware. While this is currently a vacant lot, it is in short driving distance of gas stations, convenience stores, and a few restaurants.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Vista Del Mar

16. Vista Del Mar

90%
(10)
40mi from Imperial · 1 site · Tent, RV · Thermal, CA
Learn more about this land:READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 1/2 acre flat desert primitive campground with soft course sand and rocks in Salton City. Nearby attractions are Salton Sea Beach, Coachella, Palm Springs, Anza Borrego (International Dark Sky Park), J-Tree, Slab City, Bombay Beach, and the off-roading Mecca of Ocotillo Wells OHV. Walking distance to Johnson’s Landing Cafe and the powered para-glider glide port in Salton City. 1 mile to fuel and eateries. Perfect for those accessing Truck Haven and Tierra Del Sol, and other off-road events. No shade provided on property. Nearest neibor is 1/4 mile away. Keep an eye on your pets, as there may be predators and stray dogs in the area. SOFT GROUND, if unaccustomed to driving on sand, save yourself a recovery and park on the street. AWD does not mean you won’t get stuck. Otherwise, use 4 wheel drive if on the property, minimum 8” ground clearance for rocks, alley access is recommended. Air down tires for traction (aggressive tread recommended) and do not enter from Sea Wind Ave to avoid sinking. Otherwise, street parking okay to prevent unnecessary vehicle recovery. All proceeds go to organizations with efforts in saving the Salton Sea, local wildlife habitats, and preserving bird sanctuaries. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEFT, PETS, BELONGINGS, VEHICLE DAMAGE or INJURIES. Congrats to you though, camping here donates $$$ to organizations with efforts in wildlife refuges, preserving bird sanctuaries, and migration routes. Such as Ducks Unlimited, the Audubon Society, and the Nature Conservancy. See patches, stickers, and certificate in the photos representing the $$ donated out of proceeds from campers like you :)
Pets
Campfires
from 
$14
 / night

In the Imperial Valley just north of the US-Mexico border in southeast California, Imperial offers campers plenty of options and opportunities for outdoor adventures. RV campers will find amenities at several RV parks near the city, while waterfront camping is also nearby—go fishing, water skiing, and camp with full hookups at Wiest Lake County Park; go boating and camp along the water at the Salton Sea State Recreation Area; and escape the crowds for fishing and water skiing along the Colorado River and Taylor Lake at Picacho State Recreation Area. Off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding is another popular Imperial activity, typically enjoyed at the BLM-run Imperial Sand Dunes (Glamis Dunes) and Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area, both prime areas for dispersed camping. Desert adventures, wildlife, and developed and primitive camping can also be found at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, a hot spot for spring wildflowers set about an hour northwest.

97% (537)

Top-rated campgrounds

rock tub #1 with the big pool in the background

1. Private Hot Springs & Organic Farm

99%
(221)
42mi from Imperial · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bombay Beach, CA
The desert is really lovely right now, and so are the mineral baths. We have no lodging here, so park your RV or car or set your tent up right next to outdoor hot mineral baths where pure water flows from under the desert at 124 degrees then we let it cool down to whatever temperature feels right. Only 1 group (max 6) at a time so it will always be private, and we are very conscientious of our guest's privacy, but are always available for questions via text or phone. Check out our IG here! https://www.instagram.com/hotspringsorganicfarm/ Located in a rural desert setting 1 hour south of Indio, in the morning shadow of the Chocolate Mountains, this is a working farm growing 7 varieties of organic dates: medjool, barhi, khadrawi, halawi, khalas, dayri and zahidi.   Ideal bath times are nighttime and early morning, and day soaks are an option too if you live locally and just want to spend a few hours soaking.  We have a private driveway and fenced property and there are no nearby homes. It is an extremely safe neighborhood here...never having a single incident of theft, vandalism or intrusion in the 19 years of residence. This is where the beautiful natural hot healing waters flow out of the earth as described in the famed "Desert Magazine" article of November 1956 "Little Yellowstone on the Salton Shores". A very remarkable but little-known secret in the California desert. 18 years of date harvests have made life and residence purposeful here on this 7-acre flank of the Chocolate Mountains. Desert Magazine (1956) describes the hot water here to be "richer in mineral content than any spa water in the United States excepting those in the Yellowstone Park area. Here then was mineral water rivaling that of Spa Royat in France; Bad-Nauheim in Germany; and Marianbad in Czechoslovakia. Here was water superior to that which the royal heads of Europe had paid princely sums to use." 2-wheel drive vehicles, including cars are all one needs to reach the farm.  Some wild deer in the neighborhood, but also bighorn sheep, fox, coyote, bobcat, hawks, owls, lizards, geckos and rabbits. Native artifacts have been discovered on the property and our desert nights are free of light pollution.  Private hot springs on small farms are extremely rare anywhere in America, but especially within 2 and 1/2 hours of greater Los Angeles. This is a really great place to empty your head out and enjoy the lovely weather and an even better place to get and stay healthy in these unpredictable times. This place is ideally suited for health-oriented folks. No tobacco, alcohol, vaping, cannabis or drugs allowed. And in the pools no lotions, perfume, hair care products, makeup, or sunscreen. No food or glass near the pools, and we are not set up for small kids or pets. Cookstoves are okay here, just no campfires due to an excess of brush in the region. Verizon and AT&T and T Mobile phone service all work well here. We are 4 miles from Bombay Beach, 35 minutes from Mecca, 1 hour and 20 minutes from Palm Springs, 1 hour from the Coachella Music Festival location, in the direction with light traffic. 1 hour and 30 minutes from Joshua Tree south entrance, 1 hour and 10 minutes from La Quinta and 2 hours and 30 minutes from Los Angeles area and 2 hours 30 minutes from San Diego area. We are 30 minutes to Salvation Mountain/The Slabs and 1 hour 10 minutes to Painted Canyon (The Slot Canyons in the Mecca Hills).  The last half mile before our gate is a dirt road that can have seasonal ruts and washboard surface from off-roaders, so passenger cars will need to take it slow but can still make it.  We are not a posh resort, and because it's a farm there are a few odd structures and tools on the property, but that's just part of the art. The rock pools and hot water baths are lovely at night under the stars near the palms, and that's what this place is all about.   This farm is in the low (elevation) desert, where the winter days are warm with springtime-like weather from November - March.   The colder high desert areas in the Morongo Basin (Joshua Tree, 29 Palms etc.) are more popular tourist destinations, but sometimes they are so popular that the traffic can be as bad as any city, with no flowing water and the Bighorn Sheep are hiding away deep in the boulders. The low desert has nicer winter days, hot springs, flowing water, far less traffic and more places to observe wildlife.   Bring flip flops, towels and flashlights.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$72
 / night
#1 Home Base - Potluck after a Meditation & Yoga hike with Jacumba Hikers

3. In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

99%
(115)
34mi from Imperial · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jacumba Hot Springs, CA
Property is located in the High Desert area of E. San Diego County in the In-Ko-)Pah Mountains. 5 camp sites to choose from and one (1) glamping unit "Casa Agave" which is a small home the sleeps four (4). One queen bed, 1 single and a sofa bed that sleeps one. To the west is Table Mountain a sacred Native American Ceremonial Ground that is on BLM land. The Northern boundary is the beginning Anza Borrego State Park. The East and South borders are private land. There is much evidence of campsites and artifacts that the land used to be inhabited by the Kumeyaay Nation. Mica and Garnets used to be mined in this area as well. The property is a transitional area where agave, juniper and scrub oak thrive. Wildlife in the area includes: Quail, Rattle Snakes, Lizards, Ravens, Roadrunners, Tarantulas, Rosy Boa, Mule Deer, Pack Rats, Bob Cats, Coyotes and at times Bighorn Sheep are spotted by Table Mountain. I have 10 chickens, 2 cats and my dog Bosco.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
DeAnza Springs

5. DeAnza Springs Resort

94%
(18)
38mi from Imperial · 65 sites · Tents, RVs · Jacumba, CA
DeAnza Springs Resort is a family friendly resort in North America. Situated on more than 500 private acres of high desert (2600 feet above sea level) in Eastern San Diego County, it is ideal for year-round vacationing. The Resort is comprised of 311 spacious RV sites, most with full hookups, (30/50 amps) and unlimited tent sites for camping. Comfortable rental units consist of fully furnished tiny homes and motel rooms. Centerpiece to the Resort is a 7500 square foot clubhouse. It is home to the Oasis Lounge/Bar and cafe. There is also a computer area for public internet access. No matter what activities you enjoy, you’ll probably find them available at DeAnza Springs Resort. Surrounded on three sides by the wilderness of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the resort grounds include grassy lawns, shade trees, two sparkling swimming pools and a hot tub with access to hiking trails in every direction. Amenities include two swimming pools open year round (one indoor heated and one outdoors), an outdoor hot tub, tennis/pickle ball courts, shuffle-board courts, fitness center with sauna, and laundry facilities. There is also a large enclosed pet park and WiFi broadband internet access.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$63
 / night
Post dinner with a good drink in hand. Keep your eyes on the sky, its quite the show out there.

7. The Desert View Tower

98%
(261)
33mi from Imperial · 3 sites · Tents · Jacumba, CA
Loaded with history, and set on the "La Posta Pluton," we are 3000 feet above the California's Imperial Valley. Sitting on this land is the historic Desert View Tower, which will turn 100 years old in 2020. The view of the tower couldn't be in a more epic setting. The sunsets, stars and views are world class. Tent camping in the area doesn't get much better than this.Learn more about this land:PLEASE CHECK IN BEFORE DARK.***If you are showing up after dark, we unfortunately cannot accommodate you. Must arrive before 4 in the winter months, 7pm in the summery months.***Winds here can be ferocious. A day ahead of time check the weather for Boulder Park CA (That's us). We will happily change for another date.No road access to the camp sites. Tent camping only. No RV spaces available.The Desert Tower is a 93 acre property in the midst of a great field of boulders on a hillside cliff overlooking California's Imperial Valley. One can camp anywhere in the rocks you like...there are tons of hidden gems out there with some great views. There is a sandy area in front of the tower that is very nice and close to the bathrooms -- Enjoy the views and the nighttime stars!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

11. Glamping in San Diego’s Backcountry

99%
(141)
51mi from Imperial · 6 sites · Lodging · Mount Laguna, CA
Alter Experiences LLC is a glamping & nature travel company based out of San Diego, CA. We're dedicated to creating meaningful experiences in nature & getting people outdoors. Our glamping sites are located in the Cleveland National Forest - Mount Laguna, CA. Our plush tents are nestled in the high mountain forests of San Diego's backcountry - sky islands where pristine nature & wild-life thrives. These are some of the most remote & biologically diverse habitats in all of Southern California. Our sites are handpicked to offer you a truly nature immersive experience. We strive to create the most comfortable outdoor experiences, even at our most remote locations. We take all that's fun about traditional camping & combine it with modern comfort & state of the art equipment. We offer various accommodation styles depending on location. Our Tentsile tree tents are definitely the most popular - a lightweight tree house that uses 3 anchor points to create a "living space" suspended between trees. Our elevated tree tents bring a whole new dimension to camping. Our plush & cozy bell tent was designed with the ultimate comfort in mind! It feature all the amenities you can expect at a hotel - therapeutic mattress, buddy heater, quality linens and more. The provided kitchen comes fully outfitted with everything you need including; hot chocolate, tea, spices and multiple cooking tops. All you need to bring is your cooler and food! Open fires are allowed (weather permitting) and bundles of wood are sold at $8. There are a network of trails to explore nearby, as well as Lake Cuyamaca and the historic town of Julian. You can choose from various restaurants, breweries wineries and we also have two hard cider locations, as well as various other attractions and activities. We also offer mountain bike rentals right from the campsite. Glamp with us and discover all the beautiful and natural wonders of our San Diego Backcountry.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$113
 / night
Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

12. Bee Land! True Off-Grid Camping

100%
(4)
34mi from Imperial · 5 sites · RVs · Bombay Beach, CA
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Bee Land! 5 acres of off-the-grid earth: desolate, empty and stunning! This is a property for those who really want to experience the desert at night. Camp under the stars, near the Salton Sea. You will be surrounded by the mountains and endless sky. There is nothing else except the stark beauty of this completely undeveloped landscape. However, you are 5 miles from Bombay Beach, 8 miles from Niland and Slab City. Take a day trip to Palm Springs , Joshua Tree, or the other side of the Salton Sea. Go off roading! Hike the Chocolate Mountains! Lay on one of the beaches along the Salton Sea. There’s so much do if you are open to the total experience of what desert life can provide. You never know who you will meet! Perfect alternative to the over-priced airbnbs for the Bombay Beach Biennale. Update: There is now a clearcut, straight path leading out to the property directly from the main road. There is also an entrance and property markers. All details and directions will be provided after booking is formalized.
Pets
from 
$36
 / night
Salton Sea Nymphs

15. Salton Sea Nymphs

100%
(1)
40mi from Imperial · 1 site · RV · Thermal, CA
Salton Sea Nymphs is a future art project and roadside destination. By staying here, you will contributing to the project coming to life and projects to help remedy the sea. WHAT TO DO This is a great RV spot to explore the Salton Sea, stargaze, or crash for a night during your road trip. You can also ATV the heck out of the place (you'll see the path directly at the back of the property). You may tent camp, but there are days/nights where it can get very windy. Check the forecast. UPDATE: There is a recently installed fire pit to help you stay warm or cook up a feed. Be safe and have at it. PLEASE NOTE: Ground is very soft. I did have a friend drive an RV on it without issue, but just be aware. While this is currently a vacant lot, it is in short driving distance of gas stations, convenience stores, and a few restaurants.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Vista Del Mar

16. Vista Del Mar

90%
(10)
40mi from Imperial · 1 site · Tent, RV · Thermal, CA
Learn more about this land:READ ALL (SOFT GROUND!!!) 1/2 acre flat desert primitive campground with soft course sand and rocks in Salton City. Nearby attractions are Salton Sea Beach, Coachella, Palm Springs, Anza Borrego (International Dark Sky Park), J-Tree, Slab City, Bombay Beach, and the off-roading Mecca of Ocotillo Wells OHV. Walking distance to Johnson’s Landing Cafe and the powered para-glider glide port in Salton City. 1 mile to fuel and eateries. Perfect for those accessing Truck Haven and Tierra Del Sol, and other off-road events. No shade provided on property. Nearest neibor is 1/4 mile away. Keep an eye on your pets, as there may be predators and stray dogs in the area. SOFT GROUND, if unaccustomed to driving on sand, save yourself a recovery and park on the street. AWD does not mean you won’t get stuck. Otherwise, use 4 wheel drive if on the property, minimum 8” ground clearance for rocks, alley access is recommended. Air down tires for traction (aggressive tread recommended) and do not enter from Sea Wind Ave to avoid sinking. Otherwise, street parking okay to prevent unnecessary vehicle recovery. All proceeds go to organizations with efforts in saving the Salton Sea, local wildlife habitats, and preserving bird sanctuaries. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEFT, PETS, BELONGINGS, VEHICLE DAMAGE or INJURIES. Congrats to you though, camping here donates $$$ to organizations with efforts in wildlife refuges, preserving bird sanctuaries, and migration routes. Such as Ducks Unlimited, the Audubon Society, and the Nature Conservancy. See patches, stickers, and certificate in the photos representing the $$ donated out of proceeds from campers like you :)
Pets
Campfires
from 
$14
 / night

Camper favorites near Imperial

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Imperial

Stories from the community

Other options near Imperial

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field