Keyhole Campground
04 reviewsEl Centro Field Office, 4500 Gecko Road, Brawley, CA, 92257, USA
Keyhole Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation Use fees vary by location and activity. Reservation fees include $8 for online/app reservations, $9 via contact center, and $3 for in-person reservations.
About this campground
Tucked away in the vast Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, Keyhole Campground offers an intimate desert escape perfect for those seeking a more secluded experience. As the smallest campground in this legendary dune system, Keyhole provides a cozy haven with its smooth paved surface that welcomes everything from solo adventurers to tight-knit groups ready to share stories under the desert stars. Whether you're planning a family reunion or a small gathering of off-road enthusiasts, this compact gem delivers the perfect basecamp for your sand dune adventures.
The campground is paved and appears to cater to a mix of camping styles for group or individual use, though options are limited.
Weather and SeasonsWhen the calendar turns to Week 2, Keyhole Campground transforms into a desert paradise with picture-perfect camping conditions. Daytime temperatures hover around a comfortable 71°F, ideal for exploring the dunes without the scorching heat, while evenings cool to a crisp 46°F—perfect for gathering around the campfire. With virtually no rain and crystal-clear skies boasting 90% clarity, you'll find yourself counting more stars than you ever thought possible. These pristine conditions create the ultimate backdrop for everything from sunrise photography to late-night stargazing sessions.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by the mesmerizing beauty of the Imperial Sand Dunes, Keyhole Campground places you at the heart of one of North America's most spectacular desert landscapes. These ancient, ever-shifting mountains of sand stretch as far as the eye can see, creating an otherworldly panorama that changes with every breath of wind. From your campsite, watch as the golden dunes transform throughout the day—glowing amber at sunrise, blazing bright under the midday sun, and painted in deep purples and oranges as evening approaches. This dramatic desert canvas serves as nature's own amphitheater, where the only sounds are the whisper of wind across sand and the distant hum of adventure.
Geological RegionSet within the remarkable Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, Keyhole Campground sits atop one of California's most impressive geological wonders. This vast sea of sand, sculpted by centuries of wind and weather, represents the largest mass of sand dunes in California. The ever-changing landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient lake beds gave way to today's stunning desert terrain. These living dunes, some reaching heights of over 300 feet in the surrounding area, create a dynamic playground where geology comes alive with every shifting grain of sand.
Campsite details
Sites PrivacySmall paved campsite with limited options; designed for larger groups or small clusters.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is described as a small paved 'keyhole,' accommodating either a large group or a few small groups.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov, either online, via the app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is not reservable and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee may apply for reservations canceled prior to the check-in date. Late cancellations may forfeit the first night's fee.
Activities you can enjoy
Keyhole Campground serves as a base for exploring the surrounding sand dunes, though specific activities within the campground are not detailed.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsThe area has soft sand requiring caution for those driving or camping. "Dry camping, bring your own and watch out for soft sand." - Mike Dickerson.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 21.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Brawley, CA, including hospitals, police stations, and other facilities.
Good to know
Campground Map
El Centro Field Office, 4500 Gecko Road, Brawley, CA, 92257, USA
Driving directionsAccess to the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area is best made along Highway 78 located East of Brawley, California. Turn onto Gecko Road and the campground is located on the left hand side of the road.
The campground is accessible from a paved road, Gecko Road, which branches off from Highway 78. There are no indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Brawley, CA (approximately 21 miles, around 30 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies, groceries, and camping essentials can be found in Brawley, CA, approximately 21 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Keyhole Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment for Keyhole Campground is overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of approximately 4.8 out of 5. Many users highlight its peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
"Good campground. Beautiful views." - Sombat Srinarat. "Really nice place to camp." - Michele Golembiesky. Multiple users praise the peaceful environment and its suitability for group camping.
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users note the lack of facilities such as water and the need to bring supplies. "Dry camping, bring your own and watch out for soft sand" - Mike Dickerson.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all necessary supplies, including water, as no facilities are readily available. Be cautious of soft sand when traveling to the location.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Been camping here since '87" - Jason Jones. "Dry camping, bring your own and watch out for soft sand." - Mike Dickerson
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025