Salton Sea Sra Campground

Open — The campground is currently open for reservations and operates year-round. Bombay Beach Campground is closed. Varner Harbor boat ramp is closed to vessel access due to receding water levels.

About

Salton Sea State Recreation Area Campground sits along 14 miles of the northeastern shoreline of the Salton Sea, one of the world's largest inland seas at more than 227 feet below sea level. The sea was created in 1905 when Colorado River flooding breached canal gates, filling the Salton Trough for 18 months and creating a body of water 45 miles long and 20 miles wide. The campground offers developed sites at Headquarters Campground with full RV hookups and New Camp with non-hookup sites. The area provides unique desert camping opportunities with activities including fishing for tilapia, birdwatching, kayaking, photography, and hiking. The increasing salinity of the sea has created a distinctive ecosystem that attracts diverse bird species, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. With temperatures ranging from 50-70°F October through May and 70-115°F during summer months, the cooler seasons offer the most comfortable camping conditions. The visitor center provides exhibits and programs about the sea's history and ongoing conservation efforts. While Bombay Beach Campground is closed and boat ramp access is limited due to receding water levels, the park remains open for camping and land-based recreation.

Directions

Located 30 miles south of Indio on Highway 111. From Los Angeles, take Interstate 10 east to Indio, exit 86S, turn left at Avenue 66, then right onto Highway 111. Go south about 12 miles to Headquarters entrance. From San Diego, take Highway 78 east, turn left north on Highway 86, right at Avenue 66, then right onto Highway 111 south about 12 miles.

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