Anza Borrego Desert State Park is a place known for its expansive landscapes, vibrant spring wildflowers, and sightings of bighorn sheep. Spring is the best time to visit, with pleasant weather perfect for hiking. We based ourselves in Borrego Springs at a charming Airbnb, but for those seeking a closer connection to nature, there are several campgrounds within the park. Here’s how to make the most of two days in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
To Get There
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is an easy drive from San Diego, Los Angeles or Palm Springs.
When To Go
If you’re planning a trip to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the ideal time to go is between late fall and early spring. Spring (March to April) is magical, with wildflowers blooming across the desert floor, making it the most popular season. Fall (October to November) offers cooler weather and fewer crowds, while winter (December to February) brings crisp, clear days perfect for hiking and stargazing. Avoid the summer heat, as temperatures can soar past 100°F, making outdoor activities difficult.
Where to Stay
We went to our Airbnb after for the evening. It was better than we could hope for. The wonderful hosts live on the property and you stay in their guest house. The property is renovated in a southwest style. The place was immaculate, the decor was beautiful, and the mountains served as a backdrop. On top of that there was a pool, jacuzzi, and a firepit! I highly recommend staying here.
Day 1 Anza Borrego Itinerary
Fonts Point
The most interesting thing to see in this region is Font’s Point, nicknamed “California’s Grand Canyon.” At sunset, head to this lookout to see the Borrego Badlands expansive wrinkled ridges. The roads are pretty rough getting here, so don’t try it unless you have 4-wheel drive.
Hike Borrego Palm Canyon
Borrego Canyon is a short trail where there were frequently Long Horn Sheep sightings. It was a pretty hot January day out in the desert, so luckily this hike wasn’t too strenuous. There is a river canyon that had quite a bit of water running through it, and of course lots of desert cacti. In late February lots of wildflowers bloom and the hikes are even more beautiful. I recommend going at this time of year. Anza is a large park (585 acres) so there is plenty of hiking to do. There are even a slot canyon you can explore.
Dine at Carlee’s
Grab lunch or dinner at Carlee’s. It is a sports bar with a very small town, local-type feel to it. It was sparse when we got there around 5:30 pm, but it was bustlin’ by the time we left, and a guitarist was setting up to play some live music. It’s a senior crowd, as most California desert towns are retirees. The food was delicious, and the service was great. What’s on the docket? Lots of burgers and steaks.
Day 2 Anza Borrego Itinerary
Explore Galetta Meadows
Galetta Meadows boasts life-size metal sculptures depicting critters that once roamed the Anza-Borrego Desert as far back as 6.5 million years ago. We ran into these on our way to Salvation Mountain, and it was quite the site, especially because we had no idea they existed. These sculptures are by artist Dennis Avery are massive and scattered all over the desert landscape. I would’ve loved to spend more time here but we were racing the sun to see Salvation Mountain before the sunset.
Lunch at RV Park Hotel Restaurant
RV Park Hotel Restaurant is a place that feels like an old Western town. It was another good find, delicious juicy burgers and a great beer selection.
Anza is a pretty mellow town, so there wasn’t too much activity, but if you love the outdoors and some peace and quiet I highly recommend visiting here.
Resources
Location: Borrego Springs, CA 92004