Garbage Flats Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Garbage Flats Campground is located in the Salton Sea watershed of California and offers a beautiful natural setting with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.


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Summary

The area is known for its unique ecological environment, with many interesting points of interest nearby, including the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge, and the Dos Palmas Preserve.

The campground itself offers a range of amenities for visitors, including tent and RV camping sites, picnic areas, and fire rings. There are also restrooms and showers available for guests to use. The area is popular for activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, with a wide variety of wildlife to be seen.

One interesting fact about the Garbage Flats area is that it was once used as a landfill site, but has since been cleaned up and restored to its natural state. The area is now home to a thriving ecosystem, with many types of plants and animals living in the area.

The best time of year to visit Garbage Flats Campground is in the fall or spring, when temperatures are more moderate and there are fewer crowds. Average temperatures during these seasons range from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. However, visitors should be aware that temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months, making it less comfortable for outdoor activities.

Sources:
- "Garbage Flats Campground." Recreation.gov. https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234438
- "Salton Sea." Visit California. https://www.visitcalifornia.com/attraction/salton-sea
- "Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge." U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. https://www.fws.gov/refuge/sonny_bono_salton_sea/

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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