Couple facing each other and standing in sand.

Glamis Sand Dunes Engagement

Looking for an epic spot for engagement photos? A Glamis Sand Dunes Engagement session is hard to beat. This massive desert landscape in Imperial County, California, is perfect for couples who love adventure and want something different. Whether you’re into off-roading, hiking the dunes, or just soaking in the golden light at sunrise or sunset, Glamis Sand Dunes is an incredible place for photos.

Couple facing each other and standing in sand.

G + J’s Engagement Session at Glamis Sand Dunes

G + J met while working at Disneyland in 2015. I first photographed them in April 2022 when J planned a surprise proposal at Malibu Beach Inn. He reached out to me to capture the moment, and I was stoked to be a part of it. I’ve known G since 2015 when we worked together at a preschool, so seeing their story unfold has been really cool.

A year later, they were planning their wedding and wanted engagement photos for their announcements and save-the-dates. I sent over a few location ideas, and as soon as they saw Glamis Sand Dunes, they knew that was the one.

About Glamis Sand Dunes

Also known as the Imperial Sand Dunes or North Algodones Sand Dunes, this place is a massive stretch of rolling sand dunes in southeastern California. It runs about 40 miles long and 5 miles wide. Some dunes are over 300 feet tall. It’s a popular spot for off-roading with ATVs and dune buggies, but it’s also amazing for hiking, exploring, and of course, photography.

Do You Need a Permit?

For G + J’s session, I checked with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and didn’t need a permit. But depending on the type of shoot you’re planning, you might. It’s best to contact them to confirm:

📧 BLM_CA_Web_EC@blm.gov
📞 760-337-4400

Parking Info

  • Free 2-hour parking at Hugh T. Osborne Lookout Park.
  • If you’re driving onto the dunes, a 4WD vehicle and a permit are recommended.
  • For engagement sessions, I always suggest parking in the designated area and walking across to the wilderness side, where no vehicles are allowed. This way, you avoid tire tracks in your photos and get a clean desert look.
    Couple sitting on sand dunes.
    Couple walking on sand with sun behind them.
    Two people hugging

    Best Time for Photos

    • Sunrise & Sunset: The soft, golden light makes everything glow.
    • Avoid summer: The desert gets over 100°F, and the sand gets insanely hot.
    • Weekdays & off-season: Holidays and weekends can get crowded with off-roaders.

    Other Important Information

    • Cell service is limited at the sand dunes.
    • There are restrooms located at the parking lot.

    What to Wear for Your Engagement Session

    • Comfortable shoes – Hiking boots, sandals, or going barefoot all work.
    • Light, breathable clothing – It gets hot, so stick with cotton or linen.
    • Neutral tones – Beige, white, or light gray blend well with the sand.
    • Long sleeves & pants – Helps with sun protection.
    • Accessories – Hats, sunglasses, and a bandana (for any wind-blown sand).
    • Coordinated outfits – Make sure your looks complement each other.

      Unique Activities for Glamis Sand Dunes

      If you want to make your session even more memorable, consider adding one of these:

      • Hiking – Take a walk through the dunes for some quiet moments away from the crowds.
      • Off-roading – If you’re into ATVs or dune buggies, this is the place to do it.
      • Sandboarding – Like snowboarding but on sand. Super fun.
      • Camping – Stay overnight and enjoy the stars.
      • Wildlife watching – You might spot lizards, roadrunners, and desert foxes.

        Let’s Plan Your Engagement Session

        If you’re thinking about a Glamis Sand Dunes Engagement session, I’d love to help you plan it. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some adventure, we’ll make it an experience you’ll always remember.

        Reach out here to start planning your session!

        Couple sitting on sand dunes.
        Two people kissing in sand dunes.
        Couple sitting on sand with sunset background.
        Couple walking on sand with sun behind them.
        Two people hugging
        Overhead view of a couple kissing
        Couple holding hands walking into the sand dunes.
        Couple holding hands walking across the sand dunes.
        Couple dancing in the sand dunes.
        Far away shot of couple standing on sand dune.
        Woman hugging man from behind
        Blurry image of couple looking at sand dunes.
        Couple looking at each other.
        Couple walking on the sand dunes.
        Couple facing each other and standing in sand.
        Couple laying in sand dunes and kissing.
        Two people holding lanterns and looking at each other.
        Couple laying together in sand.
        Couple kissing and holding lanterns.

        Here's to co-creating an unforgettable elopement experience.

        Here's to co-creating an unforgettable elopement experience

        I’m Karen, a Southern California Elopement Photographer who empowers couples to create memories that will last a lifetime. I am dedicated to providing the tools you need to create an unforgettable experience. 

        I help couples by providing personalized location lists, planning resources, vendor recommendations, permits, timeline-curation, and much more to curate elopement days that will be cherished forever.

        Your Southern California Elopement Photographer, planning expert, and adventure pal.

        I'm here to empower you to create memories that will last a lifetime.

        About Karen

        Follow me on Instagram!

        @karenagurtophoto

        Follow me on Instagram!

        @karenagurtophoto

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        Desert, Galleries, Location Guides, Southern California

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