Imperial County, California
Glamis, California
Sand, sunsets, and the open-desert freedom of the Imperial Sand Dunes.
What Is Glamis?
Glamis is an unincorporated community in Imperial County, California, on the eastern edge of the massive sand-dune complex known as the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area. Most people simply call the whole area "Glamis" or the "Glamis Dunes." It is a major destination for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, dune riders, campers, and adventure seekers from across the Southwest.
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Miles of Dunes
One of California's largest dune fields
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Oct 1 – Apr 15
Official season, permit required
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Dry Camping
No guaranteed hookups
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Why Go (and What Makes It Special)
- A massive dune system: Miles of open terrain and sweeping sand landscapes that shift and change with the wind.
- Unique camping and off-road culture: A rugged, true desert experience, not a standard RV park with full hookups. It's all about adventure, freedom, and the off-road lifestyle.
- A seasonal vibe: The main riding season runs from around Halloween through Easter, when temperatures are comfortable and events fill the dunes.
- Permit required: A recreation or vehicle permit is typically needed for riding and camping during the official season (October 1 – April 15).
Featured Read
Glamis, Beyond the Ride: A Weekend at Hotel Glamis
Want to see what a Glamis weekend really feels like? Travel Docent shares a story of dune rides, a night at Oldsmobile Hill, campfire conversations, and the people and local businesses that make this desert community special.
Read the Full Story →Renting an RV at Glamis
Yes, you can rent an RV or travel trailer for your stay. Rentals let you enjoy the dunes without worrying about towing or setup, and many services deliver directly to your chosen camping area and have everything ready when you arrive.
Rental Services
- ShareMyCoach: A wide selection of motorhomes, trailers, and toy haulers that can be delivered directly to Glamis. The fleet is well suited to dry camping and off-road environments.
What to Expect
- Delivery and setup: Most rentals include campsite delivery and setup, and sometimes generator use or extras like outdoor seating and BBQ gear.
- Primitive camping: Even with an RV, expect dry camping with no guaranteed water, sewer, or electric hookups. You'll be camping right on the sand.
- Bring your own: Renters are usually expected to bring bedding, pillows, food, drinks, and personal supplies.
- Minimum stays and peak times: Many companies require minimum stays on busy weekends and holidays like Thanksgiving and New Year's.
Tips Before You Go
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🕗 Arrive Early Prime spots fill fast, especially on big weekends and event days. |
🛞 Air Down Your Tires The sand is soft. If your tow vehicle isn't a 4×4, air down to about 15 psi. |
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🧰 Gear Up Pack recovery gear, first-aid supplies, and sand-appropriate tools. Cell service can be spotty. |
🎫 Get Your Permit From October 1 to April 15, a vehicle permit is needed for dune access and camping. |
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💧 Pack Supplies No full hookups, so bring water, fuel, and extras. |
🤝 Be Respectful Glamis gets crowded. Follow posted rules, drive safely, and camp responsibly. |
Is Glamis Right for You?
If you and your friends or partner enjoy rugged camping, off-road adventure, and the energy of desert life, Glamis is an unforgettable experience. You'll trade a few modern comforts for wide-open sand and star-filled skies. If you prefer paved RV resorts with hookups and full amenities, the dunes may feel a little too wild.
Featured RVs
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Class A Luxury Coach
Spacious and high-end, ideal for longer dune stays and family trips. |
Class C Adventure RV
Easy to drive and perfect for weekend warriors and small groups. |
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Toy Hauler Trailer
Built for off-roaders who bring ATVs, UTVs, or dirt bikes right to the dunes. |
Compact Travel Trailer
Lightweight and simple, great for couples and first-time campers. |
Carve the dunes at sunrise, camp under a canopy of stars, and swap stories around a fire pit. Glamis is the ultimate desert escape for anyone who craves freedom, sand, and adventure.
Read: Glamis, Beyond the Ride →
