Anza-Borrego Desert State Park – Borrego Palm Canyon Campground, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park sprawls across eastern San Diego County, offering endless desert vistas, slot canyons, blooming ocotillo, and star-filled night skies. Its main campground, Borrego Palm Canyon, sits at the base of the mountains near Borrego Springs — just a short hike from a natural oasis lined with native palms and a year-round stream. This is the heart of desert camping in California.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Peaceful, vast, and otherworldly.” Campers rave about the sunsets, wildlife, and surprisingly lush canyons. It’s hot in summer but perfect October–April. Dark skies and total quiet make it a favorite for stargazers and photographers.
Highlights
- Desert blooms: legendary wildflower displays in March and April.
- Hiking: Borrego Palm Canyon Trail leads to an oasis of native palms.
- Stargazing: official International Dark Sky Park.
- Wildlife: bighorn sheep, roadrunners, and desert foxes.
Frictions to plan around
- Heat: summer temps exceed 100°F — best visited fall through spring.
- No shade: bring canopies or awnings.
- Cell service: limited; stronger near visitor center.
- Wind & dust: common in spring afternoons.
Camper Quotes
“Incredible night sky — saw the Milky Way without even trying.”
“Wildflowers everywhere — surreal colors after a wet winter.”
“Clean, spacious sites and friendly rangers.”
“One of the best desert campgrounds in the U.S.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: 120 total (tent, trailer, and RV), plus group and primitive options.
- Hookups: 51 sites with water & electric hookups.
- Facilities: restrooms, showers, visitor center, amphitheater, dump station.
- Extras: easy access to Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead.
- Pets: allowed in campground and paved areas (not on trails).
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via ReserveCalifornia.com. Open year-round; peak season is November–April when temps are mild. Spring wildflower weekends sell out early.
Tip: Visit mid-week in March or April for the best mix of blooms, weather, and availability. Off-season (summer) camping is wide open but brutally hot.
Best Sites
- #1–25: closest to trailhead and canyon views.
- #40–55: partial hookups with open desert panoramas.
- #80–95: quieter back loop with big sky stargazing.
For spring wildflowers, aim for sites near the wash or visitor center — the valley floor bursts with color after winter rains.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Tamarisk Grove Campground: smaller, shaded option with cabins and desert palms.
- Blair Valley (free dispersed): open BLM desert camping for overlanders and stargazers.
- Ocotillo Wells SVRA: off-road area nearby with free primitive sites.
Map & Directions
From San Diego, take I-8 East to Highway 79 North, then turn east on S-2 and follow signs to Borrego Springs via Highway 78. The campground is located 1.5 miles west of the Anza-Borrego Visitor Center on Palm Canyon Drive.
Address: 200 Palm Canyon Dr, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Anza-Borrego FAQ
Are there hookups?
Yes — water and electric hookups are available at select sites.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, in the campground and paved areas only (not on hiking trails).
Is it family-friendly?
Yes — great for kids who love stars, open space, and exploring desert trails.
When’s the best time to visit?
October–April for comfortable temps and spring wildflowers.
Can I stargaze from camp?
Absolutely — it’s one of California’s darkest night skies. Bring binoculars or a telescope.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
Rumor says he sheds his fur for sunscreen and hikes by moonlight. 👣🌕
