Located in the southeast bend of California, the Imperial Sand Dunes are the largest extent of sand dunes in the state. Geographically known as the Algodones Dunes, the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, also called ISDRA is located around 160 miles east of San Diego and 220 miles west of Phoenix. Majorly, the recreation area is divided into two sections, North and South. 

Wherein, the popular Glamis sand dunes are situated in the North of the recreation area, but RV campers can have a similar experience in the Southern division of the recreation area, that is, Buttercup and Dune Buggy Flats. Moreover, each one of the areas has options for RV camping and putting around the dunes. So, if you are in California and also planning on RV camping in these beautiful sand dunes, then you should look for the best Glamis RV rental services in California, that is, Glamis Dunes Rentals, to rent an RV and to make your camping perfect. 

This particular area is said to be an outdoor lover’s paradise and is popular for its role in one of the greatest movies; Star Wars, Return of the Jedi. The rolling sand dunes are like a playground for off-roaders. Travelers bring everything from RVs and ATVs to RZR & SXS, one-of-a-kind machines.

Formed from the windblown sands of ancient Lake Cahuilla, the dunes spread for more than 40 miles in a band proportioning around 5 miles wide. Even, dunes reach heights of 300 feet above the floor of the desert, offering amazing recreation opportunities. Also, it is one of the favorite places for off-highway vehicle (OHV) sports. The sand dunes also provide aesthetic scenery, moments of solitude, and a habitat for rare plants and animals.

Fees and Permit

If you are planning to visit Glamis sand dunes, then you should know that a permit is required at all times from October 1 to April 15 every year. And these permits are sold on a per primary vehicle basis, which can be any street-legal vehicle used for transportation to the recreation area. These permits are available as of season passes and weekly passes. Although you can also purchase permits when you get to the sand dunes, lines can be quite long, so it is highly advised to buy a Glamis permit pass on BLM’s official website before you go. 

RV Camping Nearby

Dry camping is one of the major parts of the Glamis sand dunes experience, so it is crucial for you to prepare in advance by keeping an eye on your water supply, generator, and other important necessities. Also, keep in mind, the crowds and desert toys cause lots of noise, so this isn’t quite camping. Nevertheless, your generator can be used without any worry. 

A Few Most Popular Places to Camp

1. Two BLM Glamis campgrounds paved along the Gecko Road provide hard surface parking, trash facilities, and vault toilets. Other divisions of the Imperial Sand Dunes consist of Mammoth Wash; the north of Algodones Dunes and Buttercup Valley; the south of Interstate 8.

2. There are some campgrounds at Glamis North, which remain closed during the summer.

RV Vacations to Glamis Sand Dunes

Many open areas allow all types of vehicle recreation, due to the off-road action taking place in the recreation area south of Highway 78. Although, some areas enclosing the dunes demand vehicles to travel on designated routes. Whereas, closed areas prevent the use of motorized vehicles entirely. 

On the other hand, the North Algodones Dunes Wilderness provides a smooth alternative to the fast-paced action of the main dunes. This wilderness surrounds more than 26,000 acres, with the central area consisting of the largest and tallest sand dunes.

In this particular area, visitors are allowed to walk or ride horses, but this remote area is closed to all vehicles and mechanized use. So, you can’t do camping in this area with your RV, but you surely can visit it. 

Other Things to Do at Glamis or ISDRA

  • Camping 

  • Hill climbing 

  • Exploring sand dunes

  • Sand drag racing 

  • Partying 

  • Spending time with family and friends

The best times for camping at Glamis sand dunes are Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas break, and New Year. But you can visit here whenever you want to spend quality time with your loved ones. 

Where to Get More Information and Get Permits

More information regarding Glamis sand dunes is available at the BLM’s Imperial Sand Dunes official website, including the map of the entire area. Additionally, it is consists of all the contact information and exact directions. So that, you could find your visiting area easily.  

So, what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags and get ready to experience the best camping experience by renting an RV from Glamis Dunes Rentals, if you are closer to California. Not to mention, with camping you will also get to experience a road trip while traveling to the dunes