See the Wildflowers
The desert turns into a magical field of color in the spring and fall when wildflowers blanket the floor with vibrant purples, yellows and pinks. The intensity of these hues and amount of wildflowers in bloom depends on the temperature and rainfall—too much or too little rain can have a devastating effect on what blooms.
Call the Wildflower Hotline at 760-767-4684 for up-to-date information on what's in bloom and visitor center hours and events.
More: 8 Campgrounds for Spring Wildflower Blooming
Take a Hike
There are nearly 20 designated trails in Anza-Borrego, all of which offer something unique and interesting, such as a palm grove and desert oasis. Some of these hikes start at the campgrounds, which makes them easy to access.
Trailhead at the Borrego Palm Canyon Campground
Panoramic Overlook Trail: This 1-mile, out-and-back hike offers a 360-degree view of the desert landscape. Though the hike starts on flat desert ground, you'll quickly gain 275 feet in a quarter mile.
Borrego Palm Canyon Trail: Trek along this 3.2-mile canyon trail to see one of the largest palm oases inCalifornia and a seasonal waterfall oasis where hikers can swim.
Trailhead at the Tamarisk Grove Campground
Yaqui Well Trail: Learn a little more about Anza-Borrego State Park on this self-guided nature trail. Grab a brochure at the trailhead, which provides historical information that corresponds with each trail marker. After 1.6 miles you end at the Yaqui Well, a year-round water source. Look for ironwoods and honey mesquite at the well site.
Cactus Loop Trail: This short .75-mile loop is another self-guided nature trail, but this one showcases a variety of cacti. During blooming season, this hike is alive with cactus blossoms.
