Salton Sea

The Salton Sea is a large inland saline lake in southern California’s desert region that formed in 1905 after Colorado River floodwaters filled the Salton Basin. It is notable for its ecology, shoreline communities, and the abandoned mid-century resorts around its edges.

Shorelines range from exposed playa to small sandy beaches and scattered developed sites; the area attracts birdwatchers because the lake lies on a major Pacific flyway and supports many waterfowl and shorebird species. Many visitors also explore nearby roadside art sites and the decaying resort towns that fringe the sea.

The lake was created unintentionally in 1905 and subsequently became a regional recreational destination in the mid-20th century; since the late 20th century water diversion and agricultural inflows have altered its salinity and ecology, producing periodic fish kills and retreating shorelines. Management and restoration have been recurring policy issues for state and local authorities.

Situated in the Coachella and Imperial valleys of southern California, the Salton Sea lies on the Salton Trough in a hot, arid plain. It sits inland from the Gulf of California and is surrounded by low desert mountains and sparse highway-served towns.

• Origin: Formed in 1905 when Colorado River floodwaters filled the Salton Basin, it is an accidental inland saline lake with important but stressed bird habitat.
• Environmental issues and birding: High salinity and agricultural runoff have caused ecological decline and recurring fish die-offs; birdwatching is best at shoreline wetlands and early morning.

What to See #

• Salton Sea State Recreation Area: Salton Sea State Recreation Area on the lake's northeastern shore provides boat ramps, picnic facilities, and a small visitor area focused on fishing and wildlife observation.
• Bombay Beach: Bombay Beach is a small lakeside settlement known for its abandoned buildings, art installations, and as an example of mid-20th-century resort decline along the sea's shores.
• Niland / Salvation Mountain vicinity: Niland is a gateway town on the northeastern shore with road access and local services; nearby is the folk art site known as Salvation Mountain, commonly visited together with the lake.