Imperial County, California
Imperial County sits in the southeastern corner of California, near the Mexican border and the Colorado River. Much of the county is covered by desert, making it one of the hottest and driest regions in the state.
The Salton Sea, California’s largest inland lake by surface area, is one of the county’s most distinctive features. Although the lake has faced serious environmental challenges, its wetlands remain important habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.
With a population of just over 195,000, Imperial County is relatively spread out. The Imperial Sand Dunes are a major attraction for off-road enthusiasts, while the surrounding desert offers striking scenery and wide-open spaces. Hot, dry, and rugged, Imperial County has a landscape unlike anywhere else in California.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Imperial County |
| County Seat | El Centro |
| Etymology | Named for the Imperial Valley, which is a major agricultural region |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | El Centro, Calexico, Brawley, Imperial, Holtville, Westmorland |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 8, U.S. Route 111, State Route 86, State Route 78 |
| FIPS Code | 06-025 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 4,175 square miles (Land: 4,173 sq mi, Water: 2 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Riverside County (North), La Paz County, Arizona (Northeast), San Diego County (West), Yuma County, Arizona (Southeast) |
| Time Zone | Pacific Standard Time (PST) |
| State | California |
| Population | Approximately 195,000 |
| Coordinates | 32.8322° N, 115.5753° W |
| Major Landmarks | Imperial Sand Dunes, Salton Sea, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park |
PHYSICAL MAP
Imperial County Topographic Map
This topographic map highlights Inyo County’s extraordinary elevation range, from the depths of Death Valley to the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada. The detailed contours reveal why this is one of the most dramatic landscapes in the United States, with some of the greatest elevation differences in the contiguous country.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Imperial County Satellite Map
This topographic map highlights Inyo County’s extraordinary elevation range, from the depths of Death Valley to the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada. The detailed contours reveal why this is one of the most dramatic landscapes in the United States, with some of the greatest elevation differences in the contiguous country.
OUTLINE MAP
Imperial County Blank Map
This topographic map highlights Inyo County’s extraordinary elevation range, from the depths of Death Valley to the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada. The detailed contours reveal why this is one of the most dramatic landscapes in the United States, with some of the greatest elevation differences in the contiguous country.
California County Maps
California County Map
Ever wonder how California’s 58 counties are organized? Our California county map lays them all out, from the Pacific Coast to the vast desert regions. Explore the map to find the counties you know—and perhaps discover a few you don’t.