Imperial County: The Desert Gem of Southern California

Main Attractions in Imperial County

1. Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (Algodones Dunes):

The Imperial Sand Dunes are the largest mass of sand dunes in California, spanning over 40 miles. Popular with off-road enthusiasts, the dunes attract thousands of visitors annually who come for sandboarding, ATV riding, and camping. The towering dunes offer a unique desert landscape that feels otherworldly. For those seeking a quieter experience, the dunes also provide scenic beauty for hiking and photography. The area is especially popular during the cooler months, offering a perfect escape for outdoor adventure.

2. Salvation Mountain:

Located near the town of Niland, Salvation Mountain is one of California’s most iconic pieces of folk art. Created by artist Leonard Knight, this massive, colorful art installation is made of adobe, straw, and paint, featuring a variety of religious messages, murals, and sculptures. Covered in bright colors and uplifting messages of love, Salvation Mountain is a must-see for those interested in art and spirituality. It has become a symbol of creative expression in the middle of the desert and attracts visitors from around the world.

3. Salton Sea:

The Salton Sea, one of the largest inland bodies of water in California, is a unique and often surreal landscape in Imperial County. Once a popular resort destination in the mid-20th century, the area has since transformed into an eerie, but intriguing spot for birdwatching, photography, and exploration. The sea’s salty shores and abandoned buildings offer a glimpse into its storied past. The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge at the southern end of the lake is an excellent spot for birdwatching, attracting migratory birds such as pelicans, herons, and egrets.

4. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park:

Though a portion of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park extends into Imperial County, it remains one of the state’s largest and most impressive desert parks. Famous for its spring wildflower blooms, vast desert scenery, and hiking trails, the park offers miles of open space for those looking to explore the natural desert environment. Visitors can discover unique geological formations, historic sites like old stagecoach routes, and stunning desert vistas. The park is also a favorite for stargazing, thanks to its remote location and minimal light pollution.

5. Hot Mineral Springs (Holtville Hot Springs):

Located near the town of Holtville, the Holtville Hot Springs are a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing soak in natural geothermal waters. The springs are located in a rustic setting and are free to the public. Nearby, the Holtville Hot Springs Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) provides facilities for campers, making it a favorite spot for those seeking to enjoy the springs and the surrounding desert scenery for an extended period.

6. Blue Angels Naval Air Facility El Centro:

The Naval Air Facility El Centro is home to the famous Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron. Each winter, the Blue Angels practice their thrilling aerial maneuvers in the skies above El Centro in preparation for their annual airshow season. The NAF El Centro Air Show, held in March, is one of the area’s biggest events and draws crowds from across the region to witness the precision and skill of the Blue Angels as well as other aerobatic performers.

7. Imperial Valley Expo & California Mid-Winter Fair:

Held annually in Imperial, the California Mid-Winter Fair and Fiesta is the biggest event in Imperial County. The fair features a wide variety of entertainment, from carnival rides to livestock shows, concerts, and food vendors. It’s a celebration of the region’s agricultural heritage and provides a fun, family-friendly atmosphere that draws people from all over the county and beyond.

Famous Cities and Towns in Imperial County

1. El Centro:

As the county seat and the largest city in Imperial County, El Centro is the economic and cultural heart of the region. Located in the Imperial Valley, El Centro is a hub for agriculture and commerce. The city offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, and is also home to the Imperial Valley Mall. With its proximity to the Mexican border, El Centro also has strong ties to cross-border trade and culture. The city’s annual airshow featuring the Blue Angels is one of its most famous events.

2. Imperial:

The city of Imperial is a small, close-knit community known for its agricultural roots and family-friendly atmosphere. Located just north of El Centro, Imperial is home to the Imperial Valley Expo, which hosts the annual California Mid-Winter Fair and Fiesta. The city has a relaxed, suburban feel and offers parks, schools, and community events throughout the year, making it a great place for families to live and visit.

3. Calexico:

Bordering the city of Mexicali, Mexico, Calexico is a vibrant border town that blends Mexican and American cultures. The city serves as a gateway for cross-border commerce and travel, with many residents working in both the U.S. and Mexico. Calexico’s downtown district is known for its shopping, especially in the area of Gran Plaza Outlets, and it has a lively food scene featuring authentic Mexican cuisine. The town is also a cultural melting pot, with a rich history tied to the development of the region.

4. Brawley:

Known for its strong agricultural industry, Brawley is a key city in Imperial County’s farming economy. The Cattle Call Rodeo, held each November, is one of Brawley’s most famous events and attracts rodeo enthusiasts from across the Southwest. The city is also home to parks, historic buildings, and a variety of dining options. Brawley serves as a gateway to many of the county’s agricultural areas and is a great base for exploring the surrounding desert landscapes.

5. Holtville:

Located east of El Centro, Holtville is known for its large-scale vegetable production and is often referred to as the “Carrot Capital of the World.” The city hosts the annual Holtville Carrot Festival, a community event that celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage. The Holtville Hot Springs, located just outside of town, provide visitors with a relaxing retreat in natural geothermal waters.

6. Niland:

The small town of Niland is best known for its proximity to Salvation Mountain and Slab City, two of the most unique and offbeat attractions in California. Slab City, known as “The Last Free Place,” is an unincorporated, off-grid community that attracts artists, travelers, and free spirits. Niland itself offers a glimpse into the quieter side of life in the desert, with a laid-back atmosphere and access to the nearby Salton Sea.