Mecca Beach Campground
3.9212 reviews100-225 State Park Road Mecca, CA 92254
Mecca Beach Campground
$20.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type: full RV hookups at Headquarters Campground cost $30 per night, developed sites are $20 per night, and day use fees are $7 ($5 for seniors). Additional vehicle fee is $7.
About this campground
Discover an unexpected desert paradise at Mecca Beach Campground, where the shimmering waters of the Salton Sea meet the rugged beauty of California's Colorado Desert. This well-appointed campground within the Salton Sea State Recreation Area beckons adventurers with modern RV hookups and developed camping sites along the northeastern shoreline. Here, where millions of birds paint the sky during migration seasons and the night sky blazes with countless stars, you'll find yourself immersed in one of California's most fascinating natural phenomena—a vast inland sea born from a century-old accident that has transformed into a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts, anglers, and those seeking solitude in the desert's embrace.
Mecca Beach Campground features developed campsites suitable for RVs, tents, and groups. Primitive camping is not available at this specific location.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape shaped by one of the West's most dramatic environmental accidents. In 1905, the mighty Colorado River broke free from human control, surging through breached canal gates and pouring into the ancient Salton Sink for two tumultuous years. From this engineering disaster emerged an ecological marvel—the Salton Sea, now a critical lifeline for millions of migratory birds traversing the Pacific Flyway. What began as catastrophe has evolved into sanctuary, creating a unique ecosystem that serves as both a testament to nature's resilience and a vital refuge in an increasingly developed world.
Weather and SeasonsExperience two distinct seasons that shape your desert adventure. From October through May, Mother Nature rolls out the welcome mat with delightful temperatures hovering between 50-70°F—perfect weather for hiking shoreline trails, casting a fishing line, or simply basking in the desert's golden glow. Summer transforms this landscape into a land of extremes, where temperatures soar between 70-115°F from June through September. These scorching months demand respect: pack your sunscreen like a trusted companion, wear wide-brimmed hats as your shield, and keep water bottles filled to the brim. Yet even in summer's fierce embrace, early morning and evening hours reward the prepared visitor with stunning light and wildlife activity.
ElevationPrepare for a camping experience that literally takes you below sea level. At 227 feet beneath the ocean's surface, Mecca Beach offers the rare opportunity to pitch your tent in one of Earth's lowest accessible points. This dramatic depression creates its own microclimate and adds an element of geological wonder to your stay—where else can you watch the sunset while standing lower than the distant Pacific's waves?
Natural Features and SceneryWake to panoramic vistas where desert meets water in spectacular fashion. From your campsite, watch as the Salton Sea stretches endlessly toward the horizon, its surface shifting from mirror-like calm to wind-whipped waves throughout the day. The majestic Santa Rosa Mountains rise in the distance, their rugged peaks providing a dramatic backdrop to this surreal seascape. As part of the Pacific Flyway, the shoreline transforms into an ornithologist's paradise, where pelicans glide low over the water, shorebirds probe the mudflats, and seasonal migrations bring surprises with each visit. Desert sunsets here are legendary, painting the sky and water in impossible shades of orange, pink, and purple.
Geological RegionNestled within the Salton Trough along the vital Pacific Flyway, this campground occupies one of North America's most intriguing geological formations. The recreation area hugs the northeastern shore of the Salton Sea—one of the world's largest inland bodies of water, created when the Colorado River's 1905 flood filled this ancient seabed. At 227 feet below sea level, you're camping in a genuine geological depression, surrounded by evidence of the Earth's powerful forces. This accidental oasis has become an essential stopover for millions of birds traveling between Arctic breeding grounds and Latin American wintering areas, making it a crossroads where geology and ecology create magic.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available, with routes to restrooms and parking being ADA-compliant. There is accessible parking near the restroom and shower facilities, as well as picnic areas furnished with accessible tables.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and large. Multiple reviews praised the ample room provided at each site.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are clustered but provide a peaceful environment. Some reviews appreciated the quiet atmosphere, while others noted occasional noise from nearby trains.
Total Campsites1600 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the water for better views and sunsets. Larger groups may prefer sites with spacious layouts.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers are not available, but campsites with lake views are popular among visitors.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not specifically provided.
Check-out
Check-out time not specifically provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay duration is not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Details not explicitly provided.
Groups
Group campsites accommodate large parties, with one user noting suitability for gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features developed sites and RV hookups organized in sections. All camping spots are hardtop, as noted in user reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round, with peak season from October to May.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the California State Parks website or by phone at 760-393-3052.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified, but reservations are strongly recommended during the winter months.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy information is not explicitly provided.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Mecca Beach Campground provides opportunities for stargazing, birdwatching, and nature photography. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Salton Sea and surrounding mountains. Nearby, hiking and biking trails support additional outdoor recreation.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available within the recreation area, but specific details about trail lengths or difficulty levels near Mecca Beach Campground are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, with most catches being tilapia due to the salinity of the Salton Sea. Visitors fish from picnic areas such as Varner Harbor.Biking
User reviews mention biking opportunities but do not provide specific details about terrain or trail availability.Boating
Boating is available, with kayakers particularly enjoying the Salton Sea. Visitors must wheel or carry boats directly to the water due to lack of motorized vessel access.Wildlife viewing
The campground is situated on the Pacific Flyway, making it prime for birdwatching. Over 400 species of birds have been observed during winter migrations.Beach activities
Beach access is available for sunbathing and scenic enjoyment. However, dogs are not permitted on the beaches.Cultural and Educational Programs
The visitor center hosts interpretive exhibits, including history on the Salton Sea and the surrounding wildlife.Winter Activities
Winter activities include birdwatching and photography, with prime migration periods occurring from November to February.Water Sports
Limited to kayaking and non-motorized boating due to restrictions on motorized vessel access.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated areas only.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsExtreme summer heat and high salinity levels in the water can be hazardous. Wildlife is present; campers should secure food and trash.
Active alertsActive advisories include the closure of Bombay Beach and limited water access due to declining levels.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 25.6 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
Nearest emergency services are in Mecca, approximately 20 minutes away. Hospital services are available in Indio, 30 miles north.
Good to know
Peak season datesOctober to May
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available but recycling is not explicitly mentioned. User reviews did not highlight trash maintenance issues.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly on the shore of the Salton Sea; water access is available for kayaking and fishing.
Common complaintsMixed reviews regarding restroom cleanliness; some reported unsanitary conditions, while others found them clean. "Very disappointed...each toilet was brimming with human feces" contrasted with "Bathrooms and showers were VERY clean." Freight train noise at night was mentioned but deemed generally tolerable.
HostCamp host at Mecca Beach (David) is described as friendly and helpful. "Camp host at Mecca Bch campground (David) was very friendly and introduced himself upon arriving."
Campground Map
100-225 State Park Road Mecca, CA 92254
Driving directionsLocated 30 miles south of Indio on Hwy 111. From Los Angeles, take Interstate 10 east to Indio, take 86S exit then turn left at Avenue 66, then right onto Highway 111. Go south about 12 miles to the Salton Sea SRA Headquarters entrance.
Access from major roads is straightforward, as the campground is located off Highway 111, approximately 30 miles south of Indio. Roads to the site are paved and accessible year-round.Nearby places
Indio (30 miles, approx. 30 minutes), Mecca (20 minutes), Los Angeles (approx. 3 hours), San Diego (approx. 3 hours)
Nearby supplies
Stores for supplies, groceries, and fuel are located in Mecca, approximately 20 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
3.9
12 reviews
Mecca Beach Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is mixed, with high praise for the views, quiet atmosphere, and clean facilities during off-peak times. Peak times have seen complaints about restroom maintenance issues and overcrowding.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the clean facilities, spacious campsites, and breathtaking views of the Salton Sea and surrounding mountain ranges. Stargazing was noted as a highlight, with clear views of...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Restroom and shower facilities received negative feedback during peak times, especially on holiday weekends. Portable toilets were reported as overfilled and unsanitary. Noise from nearby trains was...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing self-contained RVs for greater convenience during peak times when public restrooms may be unreliable. Stargazing and birdwatching are highly recommended activities.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The best visiting season is October through May, with optimal weather and fewer maintenance issues reported. Summer months are extremely hot, limiting outdoor activities.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Breath-taking views of Salton Sea and the mountain range. Air was fresh with pleasant westerly breeze." - Mike
"Restrooms and showers were out of commission. A few porta potties are available and...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Accessible sites are #37 and #45. Users mentioned the group sites as particularly suitable for large parties.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites received favorable reviews, with routes to restrooms and picnic areas being ADA-compliant.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed within the campground but are restricted from beaches and trails. Leashes are required at all times.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025