Tamarisk Grove Campground – Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Tamarisk Grove Campground is nestled within the expansive Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, located off Yaqui Pass Road inside the park. It features approximately 27 campsites (including a number of rustic cabins) under tamarisk trees and shaded ramadas — offering one of the more comfortable “developed” desert camping experiences in the park. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Comfortably rustic desert.” Campers like that Tamarisk Grove has flush toilets and showers, some shade, and a quieter feel compared with the more heavily used Borrego Palm Canyon Campground. That said, you’ll still feel the desert heat and the wild surroundings. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Highlights
- Shade & trees: Tamarisk trees and shade ramadas give some relief from the sun. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Cabins option: Rustic cabins are available for rent — ideal for those wanting a shelter in the desert. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Nearby trails: Cactus Loop Trail and Yaqui Well Trail begin just across the road. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Dark Sky & stargazing: Being in Anza-Borrego, stargazing is excellent. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Frictions to plan around
- Non-potable water: Water at the spigots/ramadas is not drinkable unless purchased; bring your own. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Smaller campground + fewer hookups: Trailer/RV size may be limited; fewer full-service sites. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Open to roads: The campground sits where Highway 78 and Yaqui Pass Road meet, so you may hear some traffic. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Seasonal access: Best October – May; summer is extreme desert heat. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Camper Quotes
“Tamarisk Grove is great — shade, showers, and quiet desert nights.”
“We loved the cabins and short trail walks.”
“Bring tons of water though — the taps aren't drinkable.”
“Perfect base for wildflower season and stargazing.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: ~27 developed sites including tents, trailers/RVs (some size restrictions) and a set of rustic cabins. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Hookups: No full hookup sites; water is non-potable; some basic amenities. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Facilities: flush toilets, coin-operated showers, picnic tables, fire rings, shade ramadas. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- Setting: desert basin, elevation ~1,000 ft, near trailheads. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- Pets: Allowed in campground (on leash, per park rules). :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Booking & Availability
Reservations: Sites and cabins via ReserveCalifornia. Season typically opens October 1. Book early for spring and wildflower weekend visits. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Tip: Visit during wildflower season (Mar–Apr) for extra wow factor; if you go in summer, plan for intense heat and minimal shade.
Best Sites
- #4-10: tucked under more tamarisk shade, near trailheads.
- #15-20: cabins or sites near center with good balance of shade & space.
- The cabin loop: ideal for shelter in colder evenings or first-time desert campers.
Because of some road noise, if you want quieter nights, pick sites away from the main entrance/road. And bring a shade canopy — afternoons can get blazing.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Borrego Palm Canyon Campground: the main large developed campground in the park with hookups. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
- Yaqui Wash & Yaqui Pass Primitive Campgrounds: closer to wilderness, first-come, more rustic. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- Blair Valley (free dispersed): very remote desert camp experience. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Map & Directions
From the town of Borrego Springs, drive ~5 miles southwest on Borrego Springs Road, turn right (south) onto Yaqui Pass Road (Route S3) and continue ~6.5 miles. Tamarisk Grove Campground is on the left (southeast side) just before the junction with Highway 78. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
Address: Yaqui Pass Road, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, CA 92036 :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
Tamarisk Grove FAQ
Are there hookups?
No — there are no full sewer/water hookups; water on site is non-potable. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
Are dogs allowed?
Yes — dogs are allowed in the campground and on paved areas per park rules, but not on all desert trails. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
Is it family-friendly?
Yes — the shade, cabins, flushing toilets, and short trails nearby make it very good for families who want desert + amenities.
When’s the best time to visit?
October–May is ideal: mild temps, wildflowers in spring, cool nights. Summer is extremely hot. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
Can I go for hikes from here?
Yes — Cactus Loop, Yaqui Well Trail, and Kenyon Overlook Trail are all within walking or short driving distance. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
Bigfoot’s rumored to be out on the desert flats in the middle of the night, checking for wildflowers and shooting stars. 👣🌵
