At the East end of the valley you will see - perhaps from the air or at least on a map - a large body of water.  This is the Salton Sea. It is actually the largest lake in California at some 375 + square miles.  It is reported to be larger than Lake Tahoe in Nevada.  Sitting some 220+ feet below sea level the Colorado River has frequently flooded the area in the past and added to the water

How could such a large lake exist in the Desert?  Well it is true that the valley receives less than 3 inches of rainfall per year and that is not the primary source of water in the lake. Actually the lake is filled by agricultural run off. Another mystery - how do you grow things in the desert? That is easy - with water! Amazingly, the valley has long been an agricultural area growing grapes, citrus and of course dates plus many other things.  There is a resturaunt in Indio called Cactus Jacks and on the walls of the resturaunt you will see the packing crate labels from all the different produce companies that used to be here in the valley. This activity is diminishing but as Riverside County becomes on its eastern edge,  Imperial and Mexicali counties there are still large tracts of land devoted to agriculture.

Fun Statistic: 

• The sea is slightly saltier than the Pacific ocean.
• During WWII the military used the sea as a practice bombing target.
• During the 1960s there were resorts along the North shore of the lake.
• In 1955 the Park was dedicated and opened. 
• You can go boating on the Sea and there are half a dozen or more marinas to rent boats at.
• Major Wetland Area for Migrating birds great birdwatching spot
• Many Campgrounds surround the lake
• There are fish in the lake

   

Video From The North Shore: