Salton Sea State Recreation Area
Mecca, CA
California’s largest lake, created by an accidental flood in 1905 and now slowly shrinking and very salty. Come for the birds and the strange light; the shore can smell strongly.
The Salton Sea formed in 1905, when the Colorado River broke through in a flood and poured into the Salton Sink. At about 56 km (35 miles) long and 24 km (15 miles) wide, it is California's largest lake. It lies roughly 72 m (235 feet) below sea level and is about 50 percent saltier than the ocean. Few fish still reproduce, except tilapia and desert pupfish. In exchange, more than 400 bird species use the area, and many migratory birds arrive to spend the winter from October to May.
The park and its visitor center are on the lake's northeast shore. Five campgrounds offer more than 200 campsites, some with hookups. In July and August, daytime highs often exceed 38 °C (100°F), while spring and fall are more pleasant at about 10 to 30 °C (50 to 85°F). Bring plenty of water. Dogs must be leashed and are not allowed on beaches.
- Nearest town
- Mecca, CA
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 33.5085, -115.9175
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually September–May. Still fine, with some compromises, in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
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Nearby
© No machine-readable author provided. Miskatonic assumed (based on copyright claims). · CC BY 2.5Fonts Point
Photo by Vladimir Haltakov on UnsplashJoshua Tree National Park
Photo by Richard Hedrick on UnsplashGalleta Meadows sculptures
© Chris M Morris · CC BY 2.0Salvation Mountain
Campsites nearby
- Oasis Palms RV ResortMotorhome stopover11 mi from Salton Sea State Recreation AreaTentsMotorhomesElectricityWaste disposalWi-Fi
- Glamis North Hot Springs ResortMotorhome stopover14 mi from Salton Sea State Recreation AreaMotorhomes
- Cottonwood CampgroundCampsite17 mi from Salton Sea State Recreation AreaTentsCaravansDrinking waterToiletsWaste disposal
- Desert ShoresMotorhome stopover23 mi from Salton Sea State Recreation AreaMotorhomes
- Motorcoach Country ClubMotorhome stopover24 mi from Salton Sea State Recreation AreaMotorhomes
- Outdoor Resort IndioMotorhome stopover24 mi from Salton Sea State Recreation AreaMotorhomes
All campsites in California · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Salton Sea State Recreation Area?
Salton Sea State Recreation Area is in Mecca, CA, at GPS 33.5085, -115.9175. It is about 15 mi from Bombay Beach.
Can you camp near Salton Sea State Recreation Area?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is New Camp, about 1 mi away; within 25 mi there are 22 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Salton Sea State Recreation Area?
Salton Sea State Recreation Area is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Anza-Borrego and the Salton Sea.
What is there to see near Salton Sea State Recreation Area?
Places worth a stop nearby: Fonts Point (24 mi), Joshua Tree National Park (25 mi), Galleta Meadows sculptures (30 mi) and Salvation Mountain (31 mi).
When is the best time to visit Salton Sea State Recreation Area?
The most pleasant months are usually September–May. Still fine, with some compromises, in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)