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Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area - Glamis

5/5 (1 reviews)
Brawley, California (Imperial County)
Last Updated: 01/05/2023

Trail Information

Highlights

Camping
Desert
Iconic
Overland
Sand
Wash
The original "Where's It At" for off-road enthusiast, Imperial Sand Dunes, also known as Glamis Sand Dunes, is the mecca of everything sand in the United States. Nestled in the southeastern corner of California against the Mexico border is an area with over 200 square miles of endless sand dunes, deep bowls, sand mountains, and astonishing valleys. Glamis attracts millions of people per year from all over the world to see and play in its glory. This area isn't only famous for the endless dunes, sand drags, or races. The area also hosted popular films like Star Wars, Star Gate, Knights of Arabia, and many more. If vehicles are not your thing, the area offers a tranquil alternative to the fast-paced action with activities like hiking, horse back riding, photography, and wildlife viewing. Many people would say this is a top-5 Off-Road Bucket List adventure destination.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

Glamis is a wonderland of sand dunes for every type of off-road enthusiast. This area is popular for Razors, sand buggies, sand rails, Jeeps, and other OHVs. It's easy to get lost in this area; therefore, a GPS is highly recommended. Never jump or take speed over a blind dune. Always take the dunes at an angle when traversing the razorbacks and be safe. The area is full of famous hill climbs such as Competition Hill, Oldsmobile Hill, The Wall, among others. These are popular places for people to gather and watch the show. Cellphone service works great on the north end of the area. As you work your way south, the service depletes quickly. Don't forget to obtain your pass prior to arriving. You can find passes at Click Here or at the Ranger Station and store. Vehicle Requirements and Laws: -Safety Flags -Recreation Permit -Safety Helmets are required for operators and passengers of ROVs (Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle) -Seat belt and shoulder belt or safety harness are required to be worn when an ROV is in motion -Passengers in ROVs must be able to grasp the handholds with their back against the back of the seat. -If someone is within 100 feet of you, you are not allowed to pass them over 15mph -Follow Speed Laws -OHV's not allowed on asphalt roads ever -OHV's only allowed to cross dirt roads, never drive along them -ATV's may not carry passengers -Noise Restriction to 96dbA -No Person under 14 years of age shall operate an ATV unless accompanied by an adult -Any alcohol is an instant DUI -ATV and vehicles must be registered in its state or have a permit for it -No one shall ride in the back of a pickup at anytime **Laws of the Area** -Fires - Items such as pallets, or other hazardous materials including magnesium are not permitted at any time. -No Glass anywhere -Alcoholic Beverages shall not be consumed by anyone under 21 -Quiet Hours are from 10pm to 6am -Organized Group Activities and Events require a permit -Aircraft are prohibited from taking off and landing within 1 mile of Gecko Road -Camping limit is 14 days -Public Nudity is prohibited -Firearms/Fireworks are prohibited from being discharged on developed recreation sites and areas. -Parking and camping is Prohibited within 10 feet of Gecko Road -Pets on developed recreation sites and areas must be kept on a leash at all time -Dumping of Sewage is prohibited... Other Information: A permit is required to access the area. Permits are sold at the Ranger Station and the local store. Permits are $50 for a week pass when purchased at the Ranger Station. You can also get them online at Click Here Also, second vehicles / tow vehicles require a permit. Contact information for the local office is Cahuilla Ranger Station 760-344-3919 Buttercup Ranger Station 760-572-2220 El Centro Field Office 760-337-4400
The area gets really crowded on weekends and holidays. This can be dangerous with all the quads and razors cresting over blind dunes unsafely.

Trail Reviews

5/5 (1)
Official Crew
110800
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 01/05/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

This place was wild for new years!!!

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