Borrego Springs highlights map

A map of pavement-based (no off-reading, so 2WD is ok) favorite places in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and the community at the center of it.

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Please carry water and be aware of weather conditions, etc. Wear closed-toed shoes and a hat/sunscreen.

Stop by the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center first thing. You can learn about current park conditions, check on any weather or road concerns, and it’s also the spot of a great view.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center

@travelingengineer

The State Park visitor center is a great place to start because the staff there are experts in current conditions. The building is built into the side of a hill, and you get a great view by standing on the roof (but you might not know that you’re on top of it, until you come down).

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Borrego Art Institute

@travelingengineer

The art gallery in the center of town has rotating exhibits, often with a desert theme. Nice little gift shop area, with custom handmade items.

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Galleta Meadows

@travelingengineer

Sculptures are located throughout the Borrego Valley, many are accessible by parking on the shoulder and walking in. Choose a few interesting ones (there are over 100), and make sure the serpent is among them.

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Borrego Valley Inn

@travelingengineer

This hotel is beautiful, and in a great location. Adults only / quiet. Breakfast and afternoon cookies are included. There are 2 swimming pools, including one that’s clothing optional (but you’ll have to look for it - you won’t accidentally stumble into it). Walk to the center of town, but it’s also tailored to dark sky viewing.

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Stanlunds Inn & Suites

@travelingengineer

I haven’t yet stayed at Stanlunds, but it’s got a good reputation if your budget isn’t ready for Borrego Valley Inn. Great location near town, but far enough away.

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La Casa del Zorro Resort & Spa

@travelingengineer

If you’re looking for a full service resort, La Casa Del Zorro should be your choice. Pools (some private), tennis courts, cafe, restaurant, bar, and spa. Lovely!

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Carlee's

@travelingengineer

Local favorite bar and grill. Great cocktails, surprisingly wide selection of beers. Great burgers, grinders (toasted sandwiches), onion rings, and ribs. Get the soup if it remotely appeals - soup and chili are homemade, and the Clam Chowder on Friday is excellent. Live music is available most in-season weekends.

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Carmelita's Mexican Grill

@travelingengineer

Carmelita’s is one of my favorite restaurants in town. Ask for patio seating. And make sure to have a Margarita. One of the first times I stopped in, someone sitting at the bar asked if I got lost. 🤣 Borrego Springs isn’t the sort of place many people stumble into; most of the time it’s recommended.

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Click below for a detailed 2-night itinerary. Other options are available in my prog

Traveling Engineer

Available for hire

Borrego Springs highlights weekend

Visit a pavement-based (no off-roading, so 2WD is ok) sample of favorite places in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and the community at the center of it. This is a 2-night itinerary.

$20.00

Itinerary

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Traveling Engineer

Available for hire

I’ve lived in California my whole life. I’m an engineer (so was my late husband). I’m very detail-oriented and an extreme introvert. I’m known for planning fabulous adventures, and look forward to helping others plan the best trip they can have. I like adventures, stargazing, hiking, solitude, and food. The people I hike with most frequently know I’ve usually got trail beers in my Camelback for the halfway point (in addition to a full water bladder). My favorite hikes offer something unexpected or spectacular.

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Borrego Springs, CA, USA