Roadrunner Campground
4.698 reviewsEl Centro Field Office, Brawley, CA, 92257, USA
Roadrunner Campground
$3.00 - $9.00 / 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 activity. Service fees include $8 for online reservations, $9 through the contact center, and $3 for in-person reservations.
About this campground
Welcome to Roadrunner Campground, where adventure meets the endless horizon of golden sand. As the second largest camping destination in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, this desert oasis offers spacious sites along a well-maintained loop of paved roads. Modern vaulted toilets and thoughtfully designed infrastructure make this raw wilderness accessible without sacrificing the authentic dune experience that draws thousands of outdoor enthusiasts each year.
Roadrunner Campground is primarily a dry camping area with a focus on accommodating RVs and motorhomes.
Historical SignificanceWhile Roadrunner Campground's recorded history may be recent, the surrounding Imperial Sand Dunes have witnessed centuries of human passage, from ancient trade routes to modern recreational pioneering. Today's campground continues this legacy of desert exploration, serving as a gateway for contemporary adventurers drawn to these timeless landscapes.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Roadrunner into a desert paradise, with crystal-clear skies stretching endlessly above and comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures. Expect sun-drenched days averaging 67°F and crisp nights dipping to around 43°F—ideal conditions for campfire stories under star-studded skies. With rain appearing less than 2% of the time and visibility reaching an impressive 89%, winter camping here offers reliable sunshine and spectacular views. Summer brings the intense heat characteristic of desert environments, creating a dramatically different but equally memorable experience for those seeking the full spectrum of desert camping.
ElevationNestled within the undulating terrain of the Imperial Sand Dunes, Roadrunner Campground offers a unique camping experience where elevation constantly shifts beneath your feet with the ever-changing dune formations.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a landscape that seems borrowed from another planet—towering sand dunes ripple toward the horizon in every direction, their surfaces painted in shades of gold and amber by the desert sun. Roadrunner Campground places you at the heart of this extraordinary environment, where the Imperial Sand Dunes create an ever-changing canvas of shadows and light. This natural playground beckons ATV riders, photographers, and nature lovers alike, offering front-row seats to spectacular sunrises, dramatic dune formations, and the raw beauty of one of North America's largest dune systems.
Geological RegionSituated within the magnificent Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, Roadrunner Campground offers direct access to one of North America's most impressive geological wonders. These ancient dunes, sculpted by wind and time, create a dynamic landscape where massive sand formations stretch for miles, forming valleys, peaks, and bowls that shift and reshape with each passing season. This unique geological playground represents thousands of years of natural artistry, where the forces of nature continue their endless dance of creation and recreation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features paved roads, which can be beneficial for accessibility; however, no further details on accessibility features are available.
Sites SizeNo specific sizes are mentioned, but it is suitable for motorhomes, trailers, and Class A vehicles with stackers.
Sites PrivacyNo information about site privacy is available.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCamping close to the dunes is recommended for scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No group site information is available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of a large loop of paved roads.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed through Recreation.gov, with options to book online, via mobile app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground does not accept reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fees for individual campsites. No-show reservations incur a $20 fee along with forfeiture of the first night’s fees.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Roadrunner Campground is situated in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area and offers opportunities for camping near the dunes. The area is popular for motorized recreation, riding, and experiencing the unique desert environment.
Winter Activities
No winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include high winds and heat during summer months, as well as general desert conditions.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services are available in Brawley, California, approximately 15 miles away.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information on trash and recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located in a desert area near dunes, but water features are not mentioned.
Common complaintsMixed reviews mention occasional rudeness from staff and limited amenities. One review states, 'It's the gentleman that was organizing campers coming in [who] was a little on the rude side.' Another review notes, 'Wow they really improved this for camping with motorhomes and trailers on pavement.'
Campground Map
El Centro Field Office, 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 at the end of the road.
Paved access is available via Gecko Road, which leads directly to Roadrunner Campground. The road conditions are suitable for motorhomes and trailers as noted in user reviews.Nearby places
Brawley (approx. 15 miles, 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in Brawley, approximately 15 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
8 reviews
Roadrunner Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Roadrunner Campground is highly regarded for its accessibility, paved roads, and proximity to the dunes. Many visitors appreciate the improvements made for motorhomes and trailers.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praise the campground for its paved roads, suitability for large vehicles like motorhomes and trailers, and its location near the dunes. One reviewer noted, "Wow, they really improved this...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers have mentioned issues with staff behavior. One comment reads: "It's a beautiful place to camp, but the gentleman organizing campers was a little on the rude side."
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
The campground is described as ideal for those with motorized vehicles or those looking to camp close to the dunes.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No detailed seasonal trends are mentioned, but the area is frequently visited year-round.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Wow, they really improved this for camping with motorhomes and trailers on pavement." - Karen Peterson. 2. "Very nice dry camp area." - Rand Ingraham. 3. "Love Glamis and love this camp space....
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews are available.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility-related reviews are available.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or features are available.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025