The Imperial Sand Dunes at Glamis are unlike anywhere else in the world. Miles of open sand, thousands of machines, and a culture built around riding hard and camping harder. If it's your first time heading out, here's what to know before you go.
When to Go
The main season runs from October through April. Thanksgiving and New Year's are the biggest weekends — Glamis fills up fast and the dunes are packed. If you want a more relaxed first trip, aim for a regular fall or spring weekend. Camp RZR, the official Polaris event, happens in the fall and is worth attending at least once.
Where to Camp
Glamis has several popular camping areas. Vendor Row is the main hub — loud, social, and where most of the action is. If you want something more low-key, camp further out from the main roads. Come early — good spots go fast on big weekends.
What to Bring
Beyond the basics (food, water, tent, firewood), a few things make the difference:
- A flag and whip for visibility on the dunes — required for safety
- Spare parts for your machine (belts, fluids, basic tools)
- Tow straps and a recovery kit
- Lights for night riding — this is where builds really stand out
- Extra fuel
Dune Etiquette
Glamis has its own unwritten rules. Yield to riders coming uphill. Don't blind oncoming traffic with your lights. Know how to read the terrain before you push your limits. The dunes look forgiving — they're not.
Night Riding
Glamis at night is a different world. Thousands of lighted machines on the sand is one of the more unique sights you'll see. The way a build looks after dark matters as much as how it rides — this is where the culture of SXS aesthetics really comes alive.
Whatever you're riding, Glamis has a way of getting in your blood. First trip usually isn't the last.