This state park sits on the northeast shore of the Salton Sea, offering developed camping with restrooms, showers, and hookup sites amid date palms and tamarisk trees. The campground has around 150 sites ranging from primitive to full hookup, with a boat launch and fishing pier. Summer temps are brutal—think 115°F—but winter months are perfect for exploring this bizarre desert lake.
Access is easy off Highway 111, with paved roads throughout the park. The Salton Sea itself is a fascinating ecological disaster zone worth experiencing—salt-crusted shores, endless bird watching, and an otherworldly vibe. Spring and fall are prime seasons when the heat lets up and migratory birds flood the area.
Desert lake camping at California's inland sea
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | State Park Road, Desert Beach, California Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Mecca, California |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 150 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $35.00 / night |
| Reservation required | Yes — Reservation site |
| Stay limit (nights) | 7 nights |
| Best season | October-March |
| Land manager | State Park |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Cell signal, Drinking water, Dump station, Hookups, Showers, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |