Salton Sea State Recreation Area, State recreation area at Salton Sea, California, US

Salton Sea State Recreation Area is a California state park on the northeastern shore of the Salton Sea, reached from State Route 111. Its shoreline is bare, dark pebbly gravel and mud, with no structures, signs or paths, and flocks of gulls gather along it. Beyond the water a low strip of sand and sparse vegetation gives way to a pale brown and grey mountain range whose central peak holds snow.

The Salton Sea formed in 1905–1907, when Colorado River floodwater broke through a diversion canal headgate and filled the dry Salton Sink. The Salton Sea State Recreation Area was later established on the northeastern shore and is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. In January 2008 it was among 48 state parks proposed for closure by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, but the park stayed open.

The Salton Sea lies on a major flyway for migrating birds, and the recreation area's shoreline is a place to watch large flocks of gulls and other waterbirds gather on the gravel and mud. Birdwatchers come in winter and during migration to scan the flats and the open water.

The visitor center stands on the north side of the park along California State Route 111, and the Corvina Beach Campground lies near the center. The park is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. Shade and fresh water are scarce along the shore, so bring sun protection and drinking water.

The Salton Sea has no outlet: water arrives from rivers and drains and leaves only by evaporation, which concentrates salts and nutrients. The recreation area lies on the lake's northeastern shore, and the Salton Sea is a stop on a major flyway for migrating birds, so large flocks gather along the water.