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Public Campground

Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

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Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground is located in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Julian, CA. The terrain consists of desert landscapes with rocky formations and sparse vegetation. Temperatures can range from 40°F in winter to over 100°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center and the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail.

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Drive Time

Location

Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

32.86273487 N
116.21802928 W

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Connectivity

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    Verified by 1 user
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    AT&T
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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info


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Reviews

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4 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned this remote primitive spot requires bringing all supplies but offers flexible site selection and scenic desert views. Access via sandy road may challenge low-clearance vehicles.

Reviewed Dec. 29, 2025

Primitive at its Best

This is a primitive campground. That means no water, electricity, hookups, or shelter. There are some spots that have picnic tables, and all the sites have at least a cast-iron firepit. It is illegal to scavenge for firewood in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Anyone who does so is not only breaking the law, but also damaging the environment. The hike to the palm grove and spring isn't long and is a nice daytime walk.

There is at least one family of desert foxes and a TON of bats and coyotes who'll come to check out your site. There is also a small ($25 per night) fee to camp.

Site1
Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park by G C., December 29, 2025
  • Review photo of Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park by G C., December 29, 2025
  • Review photo of Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park by G C., December 29, 2025
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Nov. 14, 2022

Good Desert Spot

Remote spot down a sand road. My forester handled it well but I would be worried in sedan. There are a few camp sites with fire pits and a vault toilet but that’s pretty much it so if you’re looking for remote vibes it’s perfect. Definitely recommend bringing a table and canopy. It gets hot during the day and cools at night. You can scavenge firewood around the area.

Site5
Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park by Jacob S., November 14, 2022
  • Review photo of Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park by Jacob S., November 14, 2022
Reviewed Nov. 17, 2020

Pretty!

There were a few bugs by the water but the views made up for it. It’s extremely gorgeous right before the sun fully sets!

Reviewed Jul. 12, 2018

Primitive with vault toilet

This has been a family favorite camp spot for years! There are no amenities of a normal campground, only a vault toilet is provided. Bring your own water, picnic table, fire pit etc. There are no set camp sites, just pick what area looks good to you. It can get pretty hot or cold and windy depending on the time of year. There is a trail head that leads to a short hike to an oasis that is pretty popular.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park by Morgan D., July 12, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

What hiking trails are accessible from Mountain Palm Springs Campground?

The campground provides access to desert hiking opportunities, including trails that lead to natural palm oases. While specific trail names aren't indicated, the area features desert hiking paths where you might encounter water sources that attract wildlife. The trails offer beautiful scenery, especially dramatic around sunset. Weather conditions significantly impact hiking experience - prepare for extreme temperature variations between day and night. Always carry plenty of water, as the desert environment is unforgiving. Check with park rangers about current trail conditions before setting out, as desert trails can change seasonally.

Do I need a permit to camp at Mountain Palm Springs Campground?

No formal reservation system exists for Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance permits required for overnight stays. However, all visitors should follow Anza-Borrego Desert State Park regulations regarding length of stay and camping practices. Since this is a primitive site within a state park, standard state park entrance fees may apply. For the most current information on any potential fee changes, check with Anza-Borrego Desert State Park officials before your visit.

What facilities are available at Mountain Palm Springs Campground?

Mountain Palm Springs is a primitive campground with minimal facilities. There is only a vault toilet available - no running water, electricity, or designated camping spots. Campers need to bring all their own supplies including water, picnic tables, and portable fire pits. The campground follows a dispersed camping model where you select your own site in an area that suits you. Bringing a canopy for shade is highly recommended as the desert environment can get extremely hot during the day.

Where is Mountain Palm Springs Campground located in Anza-Borrego?

Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground is located in a remote section of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, accessible via a sand road. The campground sits in a desert environment that offers beautiful views, especially during sunset. The location provides a secluded camping experience away from developed areas. While accessible, the road conditions require careful navigation - standard sedans might struggle, but vehicles with slightly higher clearance like a Subaru Forester can handle the approach.