Why You Should Visit Anza Borrego State Park This Winter
It’s the middle of winter, and you and your friends are craving a camping trip. You don’t have the right equipment to snow camp and quite honestly, you hate the cold. Where else can you camp? The answer is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Anza-Borrego, named after the Spanish explorer Juan Bastista de Anza, is located inland from San Diego and has some amazing rock formations you must see. During the summer, this state park can reach temperatures of 115 Fahrenheit so visiting during the wintertime is more ideal. Today we are going to be going over some of the best things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park that will keep those adventurers satisfied. Just be sure to use your camera strap and sunglass straps so you can adventure hands-free!
Hikes in Anza-Borrego State Park:
The Slot (2.3 Miles) - Wanna get those Instagram slot canyon photos but don’t have the luxury of driving to Arizona? Then be sure to check out this hike. Located about 15-miles outside of the park, The Slot Hike offers visitors a short 2.3-mile hike through some amazing caverns. Be sure to use your camera and camera strap to capture those insane canyon views!
Hellhole Canyon Trail (To Maidenhair Falls 4.9 Miles)
Although this hike’s name may seem daunting, the hike itself really isn’t bad. Hike about 4.9-miles through the rocks of the park before arriving at Hellhole Palm Oasis. Some bouldering may be required, so make sure you wear the correct hiking boots! Also, be on the lookout for Bighorn Sheep! They often spend time along the rocks and near local water sources.
Other Things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park:
Other than hiking, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park during the winter. One of the most famous attractions in the park is the Badlands. Previously underwater, these Badlands provide visitors with a unique perspective of what used to be the bottom of a lake. Be sure to drive up to Font’s Point to see the sunset over the Badlands. (4-wheel drive is highly recommended) The park also has a garden of metal sculptures known as the Galleta Meadow Statues. This is the perfect place for our photographers!
The perfect time to visit Anza-Borrego State Park falls between December and February right before the temperatures start to rise. Because of this, the park can attract lots of visitors during those months. Be sure to book a campsite months ahead just to be safe. There are also local hotels in the area! Enjoy exploring the amazing wonders of Anza-Borrego State Park and remember to use that handy leather camera strap of yours!
Written by @visualsbyry