Imperial Sand Dunes

Overview

Located in the southeast corner of California, the Imperial Sand Dunes are the largest mass of sand dunes in the state.

Formed by windblown sands of ancient Lake Cahuilla, the dune system extends for more than 40 miles in a band averaging 5 miles wide. Dunes often reach heights of 300 feet above the desert floor, providing outstanding opportunities for recreation. A favorite place for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, the dunes also offer fabulous scenery, opportunities for solitude, and a home to rare plants and animals.

With most of the off-road action taking place in the recreation area south of Highway 78, the open areas allow all types of vehicle recreation. Limited areas surround the dunes require vehicles to travel on designated routes. Closed areas prohibit motorized vehicle use entirely. Information and maps for all of these areas are available at the ranger stations.

The North Algodones Dunes Wilderness offers a tranquil alternative to the fast-paced action of the main dunes. This wilderness encompasses more than 26,000 acres, with the largest and tallest dunes located in the central area. Visitors are welcome to walk or ride horses in this remote area. The wilderness is closed to all vehicles and mechanized use.

Fees and Permits

Permits are required from October 1 through April 15 each year. Permits are $35 per week in advance and $50 per week if purchased onsite. Season permits are $150. Buy your weekly or season permits online.

FY 2019 Annual Fee Report for Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area

Rules and Regulations

Visiting the Imperial Sand Dunes? Before you go, make sure you know the Rules and Regulations.

FAQs:

What is open at the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (ISDRA)?
ISDRA is currently open for responsible recreation and the BLM strives to keep your public lands open. The Center for Disease Control (CDC), BLM, state and county guidance all emphasize COVID mitigation through good hygiene, staying home when sick, and social distancing to include the wearing of face coverings. The BLM is committed to providing safe and responsible outdoor recreation opportunities. ISDRA visitors are asked to observe all CDC, BLM, state and county COVID mitigation measures. Before you leave home, make sure you know the ISDRA Rules and Regulations.

Are Oldsmobile and the other gathering spots open?
Yes, all of the ISDRA is currently open for responsible recreation and the BLM strives to keep your public lands open. To avoid future area closures in the ISDRA, all visitors are asked to voluntarily comply with the CDC, BLM, state and county COVID guidelines for good hygiene, staying home when sick, and social distancing to include the wearing of face coverings. The BLM is committed to providing safe and responsible outdoor recreation opportunities to include the implementation of emergency closures in high-risk areas due to crowding or other factors.

Why did BLM close Osborn and Gecko last season when outdoor recreation is supported by the CDC?
Gecko Road and Osborne Overlook are high visitation areas and were closed in the spring of 2020 to reduce the spread of COVID. To avoid similar closures in the future, all ISDRA visitors are asked to comply with the CDC,