Imperial Valley Desert Museum

The Imperial Valley Desert Museum is small, but has several interesting exhibits.  They have a nice assortment of pottery from the Kumeyaay people, who still live in the area and throughout San Diego County and beyond.  There are two films running continuously about the traditional technologies of bow making and more, as well as one about the geology of the region with a focus on Lake Cahuilla.  The temporary exhibit is about nearby Salvation Mountain and the religious visionary or nut (depending on your perspective) who created it.  There were desert tortoises trotting around.  There are some outdoor exhibits and a nice view of the valley.  We picked up some books about the Anza-Borrego Desert.  

The Museum also has hiking groups that meet to explore the terrain.  Most of these excursions seemed more suitable for seasoned hikers.  There is absolutely no shade in the area and it is dry, dry, dry!

Although Imperial Valley is remote, I-8 and other highways are well maintained with many travelers.  I-8 has many call boxes and also many places with radiator water available. We saw several Highway Patrol vehicles, so driving through the desert isn't as intimidating as it might seem.  We always carry a lot of drinking water in the car, regardless.