Salton Sea State Recreation Area

Shoreline camping, birding and the strange, quiet expanse of California's largest lake, 230 feet below sea level.

Salton Sea State Recreation Area is in North Shore, Salton Sea. It suits birding and eerie shoreline drives.

Admission: Day use around $7. Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

This is an outdoor activity. From May through September, go at or before sunrise, carry more water than you think you need, and treat midday heat as a hard stop. It works with kids in tow.