Ten Things to Do in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park this Winter
Nestled in the southeastern corner of California, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a sprawling, awe-inspiring desert landscape that encompasses 650,000 acres, making it the largest state park in California. Located about two hours east of San Diego and three hours southeast of Los Angeles, this vast desert landscape features a stunning array of rugged mountains, sweeping badlands, colorful wildflower blooms, and lush palm oases.
As temperatures begin to cool, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park transforms into a haven for outdoor adventures. From breathtaking stargazing to scenic hikes through rugged canyons, winter is the perfect time to explore this awe-inspiring park. Here are ten unforgettable activities to try in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park during the winter season:
- Stargazing Under the Night Sky
With some of the darkest skies in Southern California, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is an internationally recognized Dark Sky Park, and the community of Borrego Springs, nestled in the heart of the Park, is a dark sky community. Winter evenings are crisp and clear, making this the ideal time to see the constellations. Bundle up and head to Borrego Palm Canyon Campground or the remote Blair Valley area for some of the best stargazing spots. Remember to bring a telescope to enhance your view.
- Guided Nature Hikes
Join a guided hike led by our knowledgeable staff. Our hikes often focus on geology, native flora, and the unique adaptations of desert wildlife. Learn how to identify desert plants and how they survive the harsh climate and gain a deeper appreciation for Park’s diverse ecology. Sign up at www.theabf.org/events.
- Borrego Palm Canyon Adventure
Winter is the perfect time to hike the popular Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, where you can witness seasonal changes in desert vegetation. The three-mile round-trip trail leads you through a rocky canyon to a lush palm oasis, home to California’s only native species of palm, the California fan palm. Keep an eye out for the endangered Peninsular desert bighorn sheep, which are often seen climbing the canyon walls.
- Explore the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center
Visit the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center to learn about the Park’s rich paleontological history, Native American culture, and the unique desert ecosystem. Interactive exhibits showcase ancient fossils, desert geology, and the stories of the Kumeyaay and Cahuilla people who have called this land home for thousands of years. Before leaving, stop by the Anza-Borrego Foundation store to pick up maps, guidebooks, and desert-inspired souvenirs that support conservation efforts.
- Picnic at a Scenic Overlook
Enjoy a leisurely picnic at the Park’s most iconic overlook, Fonts Point, where sweeping views of the desert landscape provide a stunning backdrop. Fonts Point is particularly amazing in the winter, when the golden light enhances the beauty of the badlands and surrounding mountains. Pack your meal in reusable containers to reduce waste. You must have a high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicle to drive to Font’s Point.
- Meditate & Reflect in a Quiet Space
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is filled with serene spots perfect for meditation and quiet contemplation. Recently designated as a Quiet Conservation Area by Quiet Parks International, the Park offers an unparalleled experience of natural silence, ideal for connecting deeply with the desert environment. Head out to Little Blair Valley, where you can sit quietly in a beautiful valley soaking in the vastness of the landscape. You can also attend a quiet educational program, such as Anza-Borrego Foundation’s Quiet Research Retreat, a retreat dedicated to the preservation of quiet in the Park.
- Educational Programs and Workshops
Want to learn how to photograph the night sky? Or be guided on an all-wheel / 4×4 drive? Check out our calendar for educational programs and workshops offered throughout the winter. Topics may include desert photography, birdwatching, or a course on the Park’s history. These programs are a great way to engage with the Park’s natural and cultural history while meeting fellow nature enthusiasts. Sign up at www.theabf.org/events.
- Explore 500 Miles of Dirt Roads
For the more adventurous, Anza-Borrego’s backcountry has 500 miles of dirt roads that lead to remote canyons and spectacular viewpoints. Coyote Canyon and Fish Creek Wash are popular routes that offer a rugged experience. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for off-road terrain and always carry extra water and a reliable navigation system. Check road conditions at https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30308.
- Visit Historical Points in the Park
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is rich in history, with numerous sites that tell stories of the people and events that have shaped the region. Begin at the historic Butterfield Stage Station, a key stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route that connected St. Louis to San Francisco in the mid-19th century. Explore the remnants of this once-bustling station and learn about the hardships of early stagecoach travel. Then, head to Mine Wash Village Site, where you can see the remains of ancient Kumeyaay villages and imagine what life was like for these indigenous people who thrived in the desert environment.
- Visit the Wind Caves
For a truly unique experience, hike to the Wind Caves in the Fish Creek Badlands. The moderate, two-mile round-trip trail takes you to sandstone formations sculpted by wind over thousands of years. Once at the caves, you can explore the natural rock formations and take in panoramic views of the surrounding desert and badlands. The hike is best enjoyed in the morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler.
Always make sure to follow Leave No Trace Principles for a responsible visit. To help preserve Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s natural beauty:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Check weather conditions, pack sufficient water, and know the Park regulations.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and campsites to protect fragile desert ecosystems.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, leftover food, human waste and toilet paper. Use restroom facilities when available.
- Leave What You Find: Avoid disturbing rocks, plants, and historical artifacts.
- Minimize Campfire Impact: Check for fire restrictions, use a portable stove, and never leave a fire unattended. Illegal ground fires are prohibited in the Park. Campfires are allowed in camper-provided metal containers with bottom and sides, or in Park-provided metal fire rings in primitive campsites.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and never feed them. Keep dogs on a leash.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise to a minimum and yield to other hikers on narrow trails.
Safety Tips for Desert Adventures:
- Know the Weather: Always check the weather including the hour-by-hour forecast. Do not enter washes if rain is in the forecast.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry at least one gallon of water per person, per day, and drink regularly.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear layers, a wide-brimmed hat, and sturdy shoes to protect against the sun and rugged terrain.
- Know Your Limits: Take breaks, avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day, and be aware of signs of heat exhaustion.
- Be Prepared for Emergencies: Carry a first aid kit, a fully charged phone or GPS device, and let someone know your plans.
- Let Someone Know Your Plans: Always inform a friend or family member of your intended route, destination, and expected return time. This way, someone will be aware if you do not return as scheduled.
- Stay on Designated Trails: To protect the delicate desert ecosystem and minimize the risk of getting lost, only drive on established off-road trails.
- Know Your Limits and When to Turn Back: If a trail looks too difficult or dangerous, don’t hesitate to turn around. Your safety is the most important priority.
- Check Your Vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and equipped for off-road travel. Check tire pressure, fluid levels, and carry a spare tire, jack, and tire repair kit.
By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while helping to protect the beauty of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park for future generations.
