Glamis Sand Dunes CA

Learn to Drive and Navigate in the Dunes

The Glamis Sand Dunes are one section of the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area in California. This dune system extends for more than 40 miles, with some dunes rising to of over 300 feet above the surrounding desert. The dunes are a well-known local landmark, film and TV location, and popular OHV area. Barlow Adventures is now offering Rebelle Rally inspired 4wd training and navigation courses in this unique and challenging environment. Barlow Adventures operates by permit in the ISDRA.

Glamis Sand Dunes Courses

Beginner Dune & Navigation Course

Learn how to safely drive sand dunes, get unstuck, and gain basic navigation techniques. Three days of Rebelle Rally-inspired training, led by Nena Barlow, in a variety of hands-on skills. Camp with us to learn some tips and tricks for sleeping and eating in the desert, or a hotel thirty minutes away. All welcome, perfect first class for those interested in the Rebelle Rally, or just looking to expand your 4-wheeling skills. Basic 4WD training is recommended as a prerequisite, but not required. Lodging and meals are not included.

Lead Instructor: Nena Barlow, Certified Master Trainer. This course provides some of the skills necessary to compete in the Rebelle Rally.

Vehicle requirements: Both 4×4 and AWD crossovers welcome. Offroad-suitable tires, recovery points front and rear required. Factory skid plates ok. No roof top tents. Photos and equipment details will be requested for vehicle approval.

Get notification for the next scheduled dates.

Desert 4WD 101

Learn 4wd fundamentals and general offroad traveling skills specific to the desert environment, including the famous sand dunes of Glamis. This comprehensive hands-on beginners course includes basic preparation, 4wd driving techniques, trail etiquette and common recovery procedures in a variety of terrain and obstacle types. Understand the systems and 4-wheeling capabilities of your vehicle. Learn how to read trails and analyze obstacles. Practice basic map, nav app and compass skills. Learn outdoor safety tips and tricks for the desert. Perfect for the outdoor recreation-oriented driver who wants to use 4wd to explore and enjoy the desert backcountry responsibly.

Lead Instructor: Nena Barlow, veteran offroader and Certified Master Trainer. This course provides some of the skills necessary to compete in the Rebelle Rally.

Vehicle requirements: Both 4×4 and AWD crossovers welcome. Offroad-suitable tires, recovery points front and rear required. Factory skid plates ok. No roof top tents. Photos and equipment details will be requested for vehicle approval.

Get notification for the next scheduled dates.

Intermediate Dune Driving & Nav 201

Learn advanced techniques for driving sand dunes in a 4wd, get unstuck, and build practical navigation skills. Three days of desert rally-inspired training, led by Nena Barlow.

  • Driving techniques: pace, line choice, and vehicle controls in difficult sand dunes Recovery methods in more extreme scenarios, priorities, and safety
  • Navigation trips with map and compass, and terrain reading

Camp with us at the dunes, or hotel thirty minutes away. Lodging and meals not included.

Prerequisite: Desert 4wd 101, Beginner Dunes Course, Rebelle U, or Rebelle Rally competition.

Vehicle requirements: Both 4×4 and AWD crossovers welcome. Offroad-suitable tires, recovery points front and rear required. Factory skid plates ok. No roof top tents. Photos and equipment details will be requested for vehicle approval.

Get notification for the next scheduled dates.

Interested in custom training at Glamis?
Call us at 928-282-8700
or use this form

Private 4wd training at Glamis is a custom, unique experience, and there are more details involved in designing a program that fits your needs than can be covered easily on this website. For the fastest response, please fill out and submit the form and a Barlow Adventures representative will contact you to discuss the specific needs of your group. Or you can call us toll free at 888-928-JEEP.