Why You Should Visit Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Anza Borrego Desert State Park is one of those destinations that once you get it under your skin you can’t stop thinking about when you’ll get back. From the variety of hiking trail, the beautiful desert landscape, the seasonal Swainson’s hawk watching, and the fields and fields of wildflowers, there is so much nature to explore. If you find yourself in Southern California, you must make sure to visit this very underrated state park.

During the months of February, March, and April the park is best known for its spring wildflower blooms. Located roughly two hours east of San Diego in Southern California’s Colorado Desert, wildflowers are known to appear in the spring and delight visitors. Most wildflower enthusiast are going to spend a great deal of time exploring Henderson Canyon Road as this is one the main attractions for wildflowers. However, this guide will help you locate more options for wildflower viewing. Let’s explore the Anza Borrego wildflowers.

Inside Tip: Wildflower blooms change from season to season as well as during the season. It is always best to check at the visitor center for current information on where to spot the bloom.

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Top Locations to Spot Wildflowers

Henderson Canyon Road

Like I stated above, this is the most well-known location to spot wildflowers. This is the location where you see the majority of the social media images of the Anza Borrego wildflowers. Located just a short drive from the downtown area of Borrego Springs it’s a can’t miss if you’re visiting in the Spring. The valley comes to life with yellow desert sunflowers, white dune evening primrose, and purple sand verbena. You can easily park on the side of the road and explore the flower.

Insider Tip: Rattle snakes are in the area; I highly suggest sticking to areas that aren’t densely packed with flowers so you can see your surroundings. This will also help limit you potentially stepping on the beautiful flowers. If you’re traveling with your dog, I don’t recommend having them walk around this area. You just don’t want to risk your dog having an interaction with a rattle snake.

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Arroyo Salado Campsite

This location is a little farther from the downtown area of Borrego Springs. But this is where you can go to spy the desert lily. It is an absolutely beautiful flower, so I highly recommend a trip to the area. On my most recent visit, I was also able to view some lupines. You can drive into the campsite area or park on the dirt road and walk into the campsite. Either way, you should be able to see the desert lily!

Insider Tip: You really need to pay attention, so you don’t miss the turn off from Arroyo Salado. Located on Highway S22 at mile 34.8. There is a very small sign indicating the turn off.

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Coyote Canyon

Off DiGiorgio Road you can spot more wildflowers. You’ll find yellow desert sunflowers, white dune evening primrose and purple sand verbena in this area, just as you can in Henderson Canyon Road. However, this location usually doesn’t have as dense of a bloom as Henderson Canyon Road. But there are a variety of hiking trails here so you can get a bit more exercise while exploring the bloom. The popular Alcoholic Pass is at this location.

Insider Tip: The roads to Coyote Canyon will turn into a 4WD sand road, there are very clear signs letting individuals, without 4WD drive, know when they should stop. I don’t suggest progressing without 4WD. There is limited cell service in the area, and you don’t want to get your vehicle stuck. At the end of the paved road, you can park and walk around or hike around. Here is some really great information on potential road conditions.

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Anza Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center

This is one of my favorite locations for an easy and more accessible stroll in a well populated area. The number of cacti and wildflowers you can view is fantastic for such a small area. View the desert garden located right next to the visitor center and then I recommend walking the Campground Trail which is 1.4 mile (roundtrip) out and back trail located in the visitor center area. On my last visit I had the pleasant surprise of seeing a roadrunner on the trail. You can park at the visitor center parking lot and head out. The visitor center is located at 200 Palm Canyon Dr. Borrego Springs, CA 92004.

Insider Tip: Make sure you pay the $10 parking fee before you get on the trail.

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Anza Borrego Desert Natural History Association Center Botanical Gardens

If you want something easier to explore and located in the town of Borrego Springs, I suggest the ABDNHA Center Gardens. This is a nice little walk through a desert garden. You’ll be introduced to a lot of the well-known desert flowers and cacti and there are interpretive signs to guide you through your visit. The gardens are located at 625 Palm Canyon Drive. More information on the gardens here.

Insider Tip: Make sure to check out the store on you visit and pick up a souvenir. You can also ask the staff for more information on the recent bloom.

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Resources for Anza Borrego Wildflowers and Beyond

• Here you can sign up for wildflower updates straight to your inbox as well as access wildflower maps.
• Wildflower Guide: Updated every few days with images.
• Other locations in Southern California to view wildflowers.
• Stay at my favorite hotel.
• Check out events that might be happening during your visit.

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These are some of my favorite locations, there’s more to explore beyond this so head to the Anza Borrego Desert Park Visitor Center to get more information.