Glamis Dunes Guide: Everything First-Timers Need to Know

The Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area — Glamis — is one of the most iconic off-road destinations in North America. Every Thanksgiving weekend, New Year's, and major holiday, tens of thousands of riders descend on a stretch of California desert that becomes the largest gathering of off-road enthusiasts on earth. If you have never been, here is what you need to know before you go.

Where Is Glamis?

Glamis sits in Imperial County, California, roughly 20 miles north of the Mexican border and about two hours east of San Diego. The staging area most people target is near the Glamis Store on Highway 78. The dunes stretch for miles — you can ride for hours without seeing the same terrain twice.

When to Go

Glamis has two seasons: riding season and brutally hot. From November through March, temperatures are manageable — 60s and 70s during the day. In summer, daytime temperatures regularly hit 110°F and above. Almost everyone rides from November through February. Thanksgiving weekend and New Year's are the two biggest events of the year — arrive Thursday before Thanksgiving if you want a good campsite.

What to Bring

Safety gear first. Every vehicle needs a whip flag — California law requires them on all OHVs in the dunes. Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 and strongly recommended for everyone. Bring recovery gear: a tow strap, a shovel, and if possible a Hi-Lift jack. A fire extinguisher is required in some areas and always a good idea.

Water and fuel are your lifelines. Bring more of both than you think you need. The Glamis Store sells fuel but lines can be long on peak weekends. For water, plan at least a gallon per person per day — more if you are sweating hard.

Camp setup matters. The dunes are dusty. Everything gets covered in fine silt. Bring covers for gear, zip-lock bags for electronics, and a solid tent or shade structure. Nights in January can drop below 40°F — pack layers.

Permits and Rules

You need a California OHV sticker to ride legally on the dunes. Out-of-state vehicles need a California Non-Resident OHV permit. There are designated open-riding areas and some that are closed — check the BLM website for current maps before you head out. Rangers patrol actively during peak weekends.

Trail Etiquette

The dunes are shared terrain. Watch for riders coming up the other side of a dune before you crest. Use your whip flag. Do not ride in the dark without lights. Pick up your camp — leave nothing behind. The future of open riding at Glamis depends on the community taking care of the land.

The Community

What makes Glamis special is not just the terrain — it is the people. The neighbor who pulls you out when you are stuck. Campfire conversations with strangers who become friends. Kids seeing their first dune and deciding right there that this is the life. Culture Motorsports was born out of that community. Everything we make is built for it.

See you in the sand.