Desert Trails operates as part of an RV park and golf facility in El Centro, a city in California's Imperial Valley near the Mexican border. Designed by Wes Kirby, the course serves the local community and the seasonal RV population that winters in this desert region. The layout reflects the practical needs of a resort-style facility where accessibility and playability take precedence over championship demands. The Imperial Valley sits below sea level in the Colorado Desert, and the course occupies flat terrain characteristic of this agricultural region. The design works within the constraints of limited elevation change, relying on strategic bunkering and water features to define holes and create interest. Mature trees provide definition and shade, important considerations in an area where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The course caters primarily to recreational golfers, including retirees and seasonal visitors who spend winter months in the valley's numerous RV parks. El Centro's location makes it one of the warmest winter golf destinations in California, drawing players seeking to escape colder climates. The facility emphasizes affordability and ease of play rather than difficulty, with forward tees and open approaches that accommodate a range of skill levels. The clubhouse and amenities integrate with the RV park operations, creating a casual atmosphere focused on the social aspects of the game.