Imperial Sand Dunes
Imperial Sand Dunes
4.5
About
These mountains of sand rise 300 feet above the desert floor.
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingWhat is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience nearby attractions
The area
Reach out directly
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
103 reviews
Excellent
69
Very good
26
Average
6
Poor
2
Terrible
0
Jadranka P
London, UK748 contributions
Nov 2021
The Imperial Sand Dunes, sometimes called the Algodones Dunes, are the largest mass of sand dunes in California.
The view is stunning and if you have time you can experience all-terrain vehicle riding. There is a number of shops in the area that will rent 4-wheelers and dune buggies to the public.
The view is stunning and if you have time you can experience all-terrain vehicle riding. There is a number of shops in the area that will rent 4-wheelers and dune buggies to the public.
Written May 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robert H
Mesa, AZ1,473 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
Breathtaking. Hot, stunning. Majestic. This was our first time. But so much to see. And we just did a half hour. But I could have spent a bit more time. But unfortunately the heat is no joke. Have water, and a cool place to cool down afterwards. Worth the time worth the visit.
Written September 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CarrollZahn
San Diego252 contributions
Jul 2014 • Couples
I have been to the Osborne Overlook at the top of the dunes on route 78 on three occasions, most recently in July 2014. I have also passed the dunes on the north side of Interstate 8 in California just west of Yuma. There is almost always ATV activity on I-8, but I have never seen ATVs at the Osborne Overlook. Maybe I was just lucky. The dunes on route 78, about 5 miles west of Glamis, CA are quite spectacular and you can park at the paved overlook and walk out on the dunes with a wide view.
It turns out that both sites are part of the same very long dune that stretches from Yuma to the northeast. Some of the reviews of this site are for route 78 and some are from I-8. Others I cannot tell. I am writing this review in hopes of clearing up the confusion. Niland, CA is just west of the route 78 site, although Glamis, CA is closer. The other site is near Yuma. I hope this helps some tourists who would like to see the dunes without the ATVs. The route 78 location is probably quieter and it is only a two hour detour from Interstate 8.
It turns out that both sites are part of the same very long dune that stretches from Yuma to the northeast. Some of the reviews of this site are for route 78 and some are from I-8. Others I cannot tell. I am writing this review in hopes of clearing up the confusion. Niland, CA is just west of the route 78 site, although Glamis, CA is closer. The other site is near Yuma. I hope this helps some tourists who would like to see the dunes without the ATVs. The route 78 location is probably quieter and it is only a two hour detour from Interstate 8.
Written August 8, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lise A
Apple Valley, MN32 contributions
Feb 2019
My husband and I drove here on a day trip from Palm springs (about 2 hours) to see the dunes, based on positive reviews we read here and elsewhere. We stopped at the visitor center to ask for a map and get some info. The two people at the desk were unhelpful. The entrance fee was $50; we purchased reluctantly .Unlike Red Rocks in Nevada (also Bureau of Land Management), a national park pass is not valid her. What they don't make clear is that the pass allows you to drive down a short paved road to see many of huge RVs and off-road vehicles. And that's it. Unless you have a four-wheel drive you cannot access the other parts of the park. Drive 5 minutes OUT of the park on a public road and you get to an overview spot to see the dunes. The map shows a road on the "quiet" part of the dunes, but it's dirt/sand, you can't tell how far it goes or where it exits. We went back to the center and were given what sounds like a line they had repeated many, many times before :" I can call my supervisor, but she is off-site, and no one has ever gotten a refund". Beware!!!! What a disappointment. We are not rookie travelers but this was nuts. I imagine if you have the right vehicle this might be fun (I had hoped to see the 300 foot sand dunes). Also, I get that the people who ride there really enjoy it, but most of them have generators, they allow large campfires, and there's a lot of fuel being consumed. I wonder how much "management" is really going on versus making a ton of profit.....
Written March 19, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jerry C
Portland, ME15 contributions
Leave it to good ol 'Mericans to make an absolute beautiful natural scenery into a virtual NASCAR play park. If you like loud four wheel vehicles, 10,000 RVs and camouflage gear this is the place for you! If you like nature in its unspoiled beauty, then you'll need to drive beyond this area to another state park.
Written February 16, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Erica M
32 contributions
Dec 2018 • Family
Amazing time at the sand dunes! It's a big sandbox for the grown ups and kids. We unfortunately went on a more windy day so sand was blowing more (in the eyes) but overall a great experience. It is a great places for all ages, and great for taking pictures of the scenery and aesthetic photos of yourself/couples. Be aware that people on four wheelers, motor bikes etc will be riding around the dunes. There is a spot where tourist can walk into there dunes, up on the overlook. Bring a sled, it will be useful for sliding down the hills, if you're into the kind of thing. Depending on how far you want to go out, there will be a lot of climbing as well, so keep that in mind. And you defiantly will get sand in your clothes.
Written December 31, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nikki4765
California125 contributions
Jan 2016 • Couples
Returning next month for the (I've lost count how many times I've been there) umpteenth time. Best place on earth to ride quads but please respect nature and take care of it for future generations. Leave it cleaner than when you get there.
Hours and hours of endlessly beautiful riding. NAtree at it's best
Hours and hours of endlessly beautiful riding. NAtree at it's best
Written December 4, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
northernk
Phoenix, AZ13,284 contributions
Aug 2012 • Couples
There aren't many places one may view a Sahara type sand desert, this is one of them and certainly worth a drive through, very picturesque to see. This area can be hazardous though if not careful, stopped at a rest area up on a hill in my rental car, and nearly got stuck where i thought it was safe to drive. One can't always tell how thick a drift is and it appeared it was safe to drive through the parking area, but got stuck in the sand, in a front wheel drive. Luckily was able to wave down a few guys on a road below and with their help was able to push the car out. I guess a way to do this which luckily didn't have to do is lower the tire pressure for a flatter tire... but then once out need to drive carefully till you can reinflate your tire. Still as someone said it was great for photographs.
Written September 24, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chipcouncil
Riverview, FL130 contributions
Even if you don't camp, they will let you go in to take pictures. I was really cool seeing the sand and hills. If you go back far enough, you can see the Mexican Border fence. Also, don't visit without seeing the remnants of the wooden road about three miles in. This road was required so people could drive through the shifting sand. Very interesting experience.
Written March 11, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rwmoreau
Austin, TX151 contributions
May 2016
The sand dunes are gigantic and seemingly endless. Go dressed for the full sun and take plenty of drinking water. It is a great place for kids to play in the sand to their heart's content.
Written April 26, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Where is the best place to park if you’re there and want easy access to walk out into the sand dunes?
Written August 7, 2024
Hi, I'm thinking visiting here with my family from Phoenix area.
Is there any place we can walk on and play with sand or sled on the sand?
If I want to rent a vehicle, do I need a special license to drive it or just regular driver's license is okay?
Written November 11, 2019
You can walk, play, roll & drive in the sand. It is amazing! If you can go when it is cooler, wear sun screen, hats, bring lots of water & have fun...
Written November 12, 2019
A Tripadvisor member
Is there an atv rental near the sand dunes site? How much is the rent?
Written April 19, 2019
120nicole
Superior, Wisconsin
Is it possible to get a 2-4 hr tour of the Imperial Sand Dunes for a party of 4? I'm thinking of a dune buggy or something that seats more people that comes with an experienced driver because we are not but would love to try this. Is there anyone that provides this service and for what type of cost or who can I contact etc? Thanks!!
Written February 13, 2018
America’s Extreme Off-Roading Adventures.
Located on the dunes.
Find on Facebook
Axarental
Axaoffroadrentals
Written March 14, 2018
Sarah K
Buena Park, California
Do you need a permit to take pictures on the dunes and where can I park?
Written December 19, 2017
There is a Ranger station off of Gecko Rd with parking and pit toilets. Unless you're spending the night camping you'll need a pass. There at the Ranger station they have maps of the area too. One of the most spectacular views is off of Osborne Lookout you can drive down the road safely- but be very careful parking! Make sure the shoulder is a hard packed area and not soft sand!! The view is stunning and a touch of unearthly at sunset looking across the dunes you'll not believe you're in California. Further down the road is Glamis Beach store that has a bar and pizza 🍕. Have a wonder time taking pictures
Written December 19, 2017
My family will be traveling to the Dunes from out of state in June. We are not familiar with California weather. Is it too hot there in June?
Written March 30, 2017
Best time to visit the Dunes is Nov to Feb considering the weather and the activities there.
Written May 10, 2017
I drive a VW Golf. Will my car be able to go there? I want to go there to take photos, but I keep seeing people talk about ATV, 4x4, trucks. Are there paved roads where I can park at? And is it a far walk to get to good locations for photos from parking?
Written September 25, 2016
Yes. I'm a photographer and don't have a 4x4 either. There are enough paved roads along the dunes that allow you to walk in a few hundred yards and get some great shots.
Written September 26, 2016
cheuk818
Ontario, California
Do they have ATV rental in sand dunes or any activities such as sand slide that I can do over there? Please I need more information or websites so I can start to plan my trip there on Memorial weekend.
Written March 24, 2016
There are several companies that will rent to you, but it isn't cheap & we found many had age restrictions & one wouldn't let you go into the sand dunes at all. I did find one that advertises they are AT the Glamis dunes called Glamis Rentals at 951-660-2974. We were actually further south at Gordon's Well, so we used a company out of Ocotillo Wells who delivered them to us. You just have to call around. We feel the price was worth it because our teens loved it! Good luck.
Written March 25, 2016
Showing results 1-10 of 13
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing