Visit Borrego Springs, the Only California Town Surrounded by a State Park

Discover the hidden gem of Borrego Springs, California, surrounded by the natural beauty of Anza-Borrego State Park. Explore its art scene, enjoy its delicious grapefruit, and gaze at the starry night sky.

Located in the heart of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, lies the charming town of Borrego Springs, home to a population of 3,429. Boasting several unique features, Borrego Springs is the only California town that is entirely surrounded by a state park, making it a rare gem in the state’s landscape. This quaint town has a lot to offer visitors who come to visit Borrego Springs and explore Anza-Borrego State Park.

One of the town’s main attractions is its status as an International Dark Sky Community, the first and only one in California. The community is dedicated to preserving the night sky and protecting it from light pollution. As a result, visitors can expect to see a spectacular display of stars at night, making it a perfect spot for stargazing parties. During the summer months, when the heat can be unbearable, visitors can still enjoy the town’s charm by staying at one of the many resorts and swimming at night. Additionally, there are fewer crowds during the summer, making it an ideal time to visit.

Borrego Springs is also renowned for its ruby red grapefruit season, which begins in late December and ends when all the grapefruit has been harvested. Local fruit stands operate on the honor system, allowing visitors to pick up a bag of grapefruit and leave their payment in the box. It’s a testament to the town’s small-town charm and honesty.

The downtown area of Borrego Springs is home to a plethora of art galleries, restaurants, and lodgings. The art scene, in particular, is a source of community pride. Visitors can marvel at the supersized prehistoric and fantastical beasts that line the area’s roads or even stumble upon them in the middle of nowhere. A map with the GPS locations of all the sculptures is available at the Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association desert store, one block west of downtown Christmas Circle. These meticulously crafted metal creatures, featuring intricate details such as curling eyelashes and “fur” made of shaved iron, are the work of metal sculptor Ricardo Breceda. The town also hosts the Plein Air Invitational painting event and the Circle of Art Show, both in the spring. Visitors can even participate in watercolor or pottery-making classes at the nonprofit Borrego Art Institute.

Borrego Springs is a small town, but it offers plenty of options for accommodations, including resorts and lodgings that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly option, Borrego Springs has something for everyone.

One of the most popular resorts in Borrego Springs is La Casa del Zorro. This luxurious resort features a spa, several swimming pools, tennis courts, and even an ice cream shop. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring Anza-Borrego State Park. The resort offers various room options, including suites, casitas, and private villas, all with stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Another popular resort in Borrego Springs is the Borrego Springs Resort & Spa. This resort offers a golf course, tennis courts, a spa, and several dining options. The rooms are spacious and modern, with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, the resort’s location on the edge of town offers stunning views of the desert and the mountains in the distance.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Borrego Valley Inn is a great choice. This quaint inn features several rooms and suites, all with a private patio or balcony. The inn is located just a short walk from downtown Borrego Springs, so you can easily explore the town’s art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

For those who prefer to be closer to nature, camping is also an option in Borrego Springs. Anza-Borrego State Park has several campgrounds, including Borrego Palm Canyon Campground, Tamarisk Grove Campground, and Agua Caliente County Park. These campgrounds offer basic amenities, such as picnic tables and fire pits, and are a great way to experience the beauty of the park up close.

No matter where you choose to stay in Borrego Springs, you’re sure to be surrounded by the natural beauty of Anza-Borrego State Park and the charm of this unique California town.

While Borrego Springs is a fantastic destination all year round, there are some unique advantages to visiting during the summer months. Despite the intense heat, summer can be an excellent time to explore the town and enjoy all it has to offer.

One of the main advantages of visiting Borrego Springs in the summer is that you’ll be able to beat the crowds. Many visitors flock to the town in the winter months when the weather is cooler, and the grapefruit is in season. By contrast, summer tends to be a quieter time, meaning that you’ll have more space and more peace and quiet to enjoy the town’s charms.

Summer is also a great time to take advantage of the town’s resorts and lodgings. With many visitors staying away due to the heat, you’re likely to find excellent deals and discounts on accommodations. Plus, many of the resorts offer activities and amenities that are designed to help guests stay cool and comfortable during the hot summer months, such as swimming pools and air conditioning.

Despite the heat, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Borrego Springs during the summer. While hiking and exploring the park’s many trails may not be advisable during the hottest part of the day, there are still plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the scenery. Many visitors opt to explore the park at night, when the temperature drops and the stars come out. The town’s dark sky community status means that you’ll be able to see an incredible display of stars without any light pollution interfering.

Finally, summer is an excellent time to take advantage of Borrego Springs’ lively art scene. Many of the town’s galleries and studios stay open all year round, and you’re likely to find plenty of art events and exhibitions taking place during the summer months. Whether you’re interested in sculpture, painting, or pottery, there are plenty of opportunities to get creative and explore your artistic side in Borrego Springs.

In conclusion, while Borrego Springs may be known as a winter destination, the summer months offer their own unique charms. By visiting during the off-season, you’ll be able to beat the crowds, enjoy excellent deals on accommodations, and explore the town’s many art galleries and studios. Plus, you’ll be able to take advantage of the park’s natural beauty without the crowds, making for a truly unforgettable experience.