Visit the Amazing Anza-Borrego State Park

The Road to Fonts Point in Anza Borrego Desert State Park

The best way to beat the heat when hiking is to head to the trails early. Skip the crowds and the overhead sun when you stay at a hotel near the park.

Borrego Valley Inn

One of my favorite hotels by Anza Borrego is the Borrego Valley Inn. It’s right by the park out in the desert, so you get to feel completely immersed in the atmosphere. Best of all, the stargazing here is incredible.

Note that this is an adults-only hotel and that the pool is clothing-optional, so families will want to book elsewhere.

At over 640,000 acres, Anza-Borrego is huge.

Having trouble narrowing down what spots to visit? Here were some of my favorites from my recent trip.

Breathtaking Views at Borrego Badlands in Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Borrego Badlands

The Borrego Badlands is the oldest area inside Anza-Borrego State Park. You can see geographic features that are about 450 million years old, back when the ocean used to cover this part of California.

Nowadays, this spot is about 90 miles inland, and the Pacific Ocean is all the way on the other side of Palomar Mountain. Since the ocean has receded, the rock formations in the Badlands are exposed, and you can see the effects of millions of years of erosion.

I found the Borrego Badlands to be the most impressive part of the whole park. The best views here come from Fonts Point, where you can look out from high up and get an amazing perspective from this panoramic overlook trail.

The hike out to the point is easy and follows a mostly flat, sandy road.

Campground Trail Near the Visitors Center in Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Hiking Trails

Hiking the trails at Anza Borrego is the best way to see the scenery. There are many options, from short and easy hikes to more challenging treks.

A sampling of trails here include:

• Erosion Road Driving Tour: Drive along a paved road through the park’s Badlands area
• ‘Ehmuu-Morteros Trail: A short and easy hike to the site of a Kumeyaay village.
• Narrows Earth Nature Trail: A half-mile hike that offers canyon views.
• Cactus Loop Trail: This hiking trail goes through a section of the park where many wild cacti grow. It is about a mile but has some tough uphill sections.
• Borrego Palm Canyon Trail: A longer trail at about 3 miles, this hiking path is tough but offers a look at the park’s palm grove. As of 2024, this trail is closed due to fire damage.

While hiking, take a moment to admire nature. The park is filled with stunning views of canyons dotted with shrubs and cacti, and even wildflowers depending on the time of year.

Note that it can be easy to get lost, especially in areas with few landmarks to orient yourself. Stay on the paths and stay alert.

Camping

There are few restrictions to worry about if you plan on camping in the backcountry area of the park. Here, reservations aren’t necessary. The only rule is to clean up any trash and to be respectful of others in the park.

If you’d prefer to stay at the park’s Borrego Palm Canyon Campground, you’ll need to reserve your spot ahead of time.

There aren’t any food vendors inside Anza Borrego Desert State Park, but there are a number of places to eat nearby.

The Road into in Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Dining in Borrego Spring

Some of the closest restaurants and eateries to the park can be found in Borrego Springs, which is a 5-10 minute drive from the park.

You’ll find some standout Mexican restaurants here, plus a few cafes and bistros. There are even some pet-friendly restaurants for anyone looking for a place to dine after hiking the trails with their dog in tow.

Main Entrance to the Visitors Center in Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Picnic in the Park

Visitors are welcome to bring food and drinks with them to enjoy within the State Park. However, alcohol is not allowed, and all trash must be taken with you.

There are a few areas in the park with picnic tables. These include over at the campgrounds and in the Desert Garden, which is right next to the Visitors Center.

Anza Borrego isn’t too far from San Diego. Since the park is so remote, there are minimal public transit options, so driving is recommended.

Another Secluded Road in Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Driving Distance

From Downtown San Diego, the drive out to Anza-Borrego State Park is about 90 miles. On an average day it takes about 1.5-2 hours to drive, so it’s a doable day trip.

The most direct route is via CA-67, but you can also take CA-78 or I-8 E depending on where you’re staying in San Diego.

Vistors Center Parking at Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Parking

The State Park has its own lot right by the visitor center.

The lot is open from 7:00 am-7:00 pm. Parking is $10 per vehicle.