Forty miles of dunes along the California-Arizona border. The most famous OHV destination in the lower 48 — Halloween and Thanksgiving weekends draw 100,000+ riders. Camping is dispersed; bring everything (no water, no cell). Closed in summer (104°F+ daytime).
Photo: Michelle Puckett, Bureau of Land Management California (public domain)
Area vitals7 facts
Size
165,000acres
Trail miles
40 miles of dunes; no formal trail system
Technical difficulty
Difficult
Vehicle classes
dune-buggies, UTVs, dirt-bikes, sand-rails, ATVs
Best months
Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Permit
Required
Fees
$35/week or $150 season pass (Oct 1 – Apr 15). Free in summer.
Last verified April 2026
Last updated
Area map
OHV area
Coordinates 32.94190, -115.08580
Area facts
7 fields
| Agency | BLM Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Brawley, CA (45 miles west) / Yuma, AZ (25 miles east) |
| Permit | BLM permit required Oct 1 – Apr 15. Day-use $35/week, season pass $150. Buy online at recreation.gov. |
| Agency contact | (760) 337-4400 |
| Website | www.blm.gov/visit/imperial-sand-dunes |
| Closed | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Coordinates | 32.94190, -115.08580 |
Getting there
Directions
Access is along Highway 78 east of Brawley, California or along Interstate 8 west of Yuma, Arizona. The Glamis village area sits on Highway 78 about 28 miles east of Brawley; most riding starts from there or from the Gecko Road and Buttercup areas off I-8.
Photos
1 photo
Photos · 1
Frequently asked
Common questions
- How difficult is Glamis (Imperial Sand Dunes)?
- Glamis (Imperial Sand Dunes) is rated difficult.
- When is the best time to visit Glamis (Imperial Sand Dunes)?
- The best months are Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr. Avoid May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.
- Do you need a permit for Glamis (Imperial Sand Dunes)?
- Yes — a permit is required. It is managed by BLM Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area — check the agency listing for current requirements and fees.
Resources
1 map