Map showing campground location near Mount Laguna, California

Camper submitted image from Bow Willow Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Bow Willow Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Situated in the southern reaches of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Bow Willow Primitive Campground sits in open desert terrain where the landscape shifts from rocky ridgelines to dry wash corridors. The drive in is straightforward, and the sites are well-maintained with covered picnic tables at each one. It runs on a first-come, first-served basis.

The campground has two loops, and campers who have visited more than once tend to favor the upper loop on weekdays, when the site is quieter and generator noise from larger RVs is less likely to be a factor. Winter weekends draw more visitors. Sunrise views over the surrounding desert are a consistent draw, and a nearby trail leads to a palm grove worth the walk. Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park sits about 1.5 miles north and makes a logical pairing for those spending multiple nights in the area.

Amenities include vault toilets, drinking water, trash service, and campfires are permitted. One recent reviewer flagged that water was unavailable during their January visit, so it is worth confirming conditions ahead of time. Pets are welcome. As Stephen B. puts it, the sites are "in good shape, very quiet at night." The campground suits those who want a base for desert hiking with basic infrastructure, and who are comfortable with limited amenities and variable water availability.

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Map & DirectionsBow Willow Primitive Campground is located in California near Mount Laguna

Public Campground

Address

200 Palm Canyon Drive
Borrego Springs, CA 92004

Coordinates

32.84175968 N
116.22494267 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

38 min from El Centro, CA
1 hr 14 min from San Diego, CA
1 hr 39 min from Yuma, AZ
3 hrs 1 min from Los Angeles, CA

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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Bow Willow Primitive Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

Multiple campers commented on the well-maintained sites and peaceful atmosphere with beautiful desert views. Basic facilities include vault toilets and picnic tables, though water is unavailable.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Dick T.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 3, 2026

This is a wonderful place to unplug, reconnect, and recharge.

I've camped here twice, and it’s ideal for solo camping. The quiet allows you to unwind and truly enjoy peace. I prefer to camp in the upper loop on weekdays; the noise from big RVs with generators is not my idea of solitude. Fortunately, I’ve never encountered that issue during my visits. I’ve noticed the handful of campers here are like-minded, also seeking tranquility for reflection. With breathtaking sunrise views and fantastic hiking trails, it’s a truly inspiring location. However, weekends in winter may feel too crowded for my taste, but that’s the beauty of individual preferences.

Site9

Month of VisitMarch

Robert G.

Traveler

Reviewed Jan. 18, 2025

Peaceful, Scenic, Lots of Nearby Trails

First car camp in Anza Borrego. Wasn't disappionted.

Month of VisitDecember

Sheila S.

Scout

Reviewed Jan. 18, 2024

Bix Willow stay

No water, $20 per nite with vault toliet and trash Nice cover picnic tables at each site

Site7

Month of VisitJanuary

Ralitsa K.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 25, 2022

Dry, serene, and quiet

This campsite was first come first serve. We set up quickly and enjoyed ourselves a walk around the site. Not too many trailheads around and it was very hot and dry but we enjoyed it.

Siteunsure

Month of VisitMarch

Stephen B.

Scout

Reviewed Nov. 9, 2021

Great location

Easy to get to, sites are in good shape very quiet at night beautiful views. Nice hike to a palm grove.

Site13

Month of VisitNovember

Taylor

Ranger

Reviewed Nov. 17, 2020

Beautiful

We spent the day adventuring in Borrego and stumbled upon this site. It was completely empt and looked we’ll taken care of. We were there before sunset and everything was so pink, it was gorgeous!!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Bow Willow Campground?

Bow Willow Primitive Campground offers basic facilities consistent with its primitive designation. Each campsite includes a covered picnic table, providing some shade in the desert environment. The campground has vault toilets and trash collection services. There is no water available at the site, so campers must bring all the water they need for their stay. The campsites are well-maintained and in good condition. The $20 nightly fee covers access to these limited but functional amenities.

Do I need reservations for Bow Willow Campground?

Bow Willow Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. Simply arrive at the campground and select an available site. The campground is sometimes completely empty, especially during weekdays or off-peak seasons, making it relatively easy to secure a spot. However, having a backup plan is recommended during popular camping seasons or holidays. Upon arrival, be prepared to pay the $20 per night camping fee.

Where is Bow Willow Campground located and how do I get there?

Bow Willow Primitive Campground is located in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in Southern California. The campground is accessible by car with relatively easy access. Visitors will find it situated in a scenic desert area with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The location offers a serene, quiet environment and serves as a good base for exploring the greater Anza-Borrego Desert region. Many campers enjoy the pink-hued sunsets visible from the campground. There's also access to hiking opportunities, including a trail that leads to a palm grove nearby.

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