Borrego Springs sits in the Colorado Desert of California at an elevation of approximately 600 feet, surrounded by the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Temperatures can exceed 110°F in summer and drop to the 60s-70s in winter, making October through April the primary camping season. Many campers visit this area for stargazing opportunities as Borrego Springs is one of the few designated International Dark Sky Communities in the United States.
What to do
Stargazing under dark skies: Borrego Springs offers exceptional stargazing due to its Dark Sky designation. At The Springs at Borrego RV Resort and Golf Course, one camper noted, "Our only issue was that a neighbor kept a giant light 'display' on until well past the Dark Sky hours."
Exploring nearby mountain towns: Many campers use Borrego Springs as a base to explore surrounding areas. When staying at Stagecoach Trails Resort, campers discovered that "Julian is about 20 minutes away, cute little mountain town with a brewery and some good food!"
Golfing on desert courses: Several RV parks offer golf as an amenity. A visitor at The Springs at Borrego praised the conditions: "The golf course is in excellent condition. Greens a bit slow," while another mentioned "three of our party enjoyed the 9-hole golf course which is in excellent condition."
Off-roading adventures: The surrounding desert offers extensive off-road opportunities. A camper at Leapin' Lizard RV Ranch shared, "Beautiful area, tons of shooting and off-roading nearby," making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts with appropriate vehicles.
What campers like
Resort amenities amid desert landscapes: Many RV parks near Borrego Springs offer unexpected luxury amenities. A guest at The Springs at Borrego RV Resort described it as "a beautiful luxury RV resort in Borrego Springs, a desert community in San Diego County that's known for its unique metal sculptures, golf resorts, and beautiful hiking trails."
Family-friendly facilities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to families. A reviewer at The Springs at Borrego noted it was a "really nice and clean facility with tons of amenities for families." Another camper mentioned they "really enjoyed our stay at the Springs, especially the pool area and multiple hot mineral baths on the premises."
Spacious, well-designed camping sites: Campers appreciate the thoughtful layout of rv parks in Borrego Springs. At The Springs at Borrego, a visitor observed, "The camp sites are more spacious than I expected and have mature landscaping between sites. The grounds are immaculate!!!"
Protection from desert elements: The natural challenges of desert camping are mitigated at well-designed facilities. At Leapin' Lizard RV Ranch, a camper appreciated that "each spot is surrounded by trees which is very rare to find in the desert! It makes each spot private and helps hugely with keeping wind from blowing dirt into your spot."
What you should know
Extreme weather considerations: Desert camping requires preparation for temperature variations. At Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort, a camper warned, "If you have never visited this part of California, be advised that the wind here can be VERY intense, especially at night." Another advised, "I wouldn't recommend planning your trip mid-May to mid-September as temperatures are dangerously high."
Cell service variability: Connectivity can be inconsistent throughout the region. At Leapin' Lizard RV Ranch, campers reported, "Phone service is spotty for ATT and Tmobile, but you'll have better service at the front of the campground."
Availability patterns: Many Borrego Springs RV parks have seasonal patterns. For The Springs at Borrego, a visitor advised: "Reserve a year in advance if you want a site during the nicest months of the year (winter)."
Water quality concerns: Some areas may have water quality issues. While not common at the major rv parks in Borrego Springs, campers should be aware of potential regional water concerns.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities for desert relief: Swimming pools provide essential relief from desert heat. At Ocotillo RV Resort, a family noted, "We made reservations not knowing there around be a heat wave and the pool was closed. Other than that, it was a wonderful place to stay."
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with specific activities for children. A visitor at The Springs at Borrego highlighted they "have a little fishing pond, golf course, pickle ball and a wellness center where you can even get a massage."
Community activities: Some campgrounds organize events for guests. Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort offers "on-site restaurants and saloon two large heated swimming pools, temporary closed, business rooms, jacuzzi, laundry facilities, gift shop and market and restaurant."
Balance amenities with cost: Family camping can become expensive at premium resorts. A budget-conscious traveler suggested mixing stays between premium and standard campgrounds for longer trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for level parking: RV campers should request level sites when possible. One RVer at Encore Palm Springs Oasis warned, "We unfortunately got one that was an end spot so it angled down to one side quite a bit. It was difficult for us to get level and costs us our 'patio' area since there wasn't enough room for our rug."
Pad length considerations: Concrete pads vary in length between facilities. A camper at The Springs at Borrego RV Resort noted, "The concrete pads are really long. This allowed us to have both the trailer and the truck on the pad. Not the perpendicular park job we are all used to."
Seasonal availability: RVers should book well in advance during peak season. One camper observed that at Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort there is "limited availability for over 38', easy last minute reservations >=35'" suggesting smaller rigs may have more flexibility.
Winter reservation requirements: The Borrego Springs area is popular with winter visitors. For those planning winter trips, a reviewer at The Springs at Borrego advised: "Reserve a year in advance if you want a site during the nicest months of the year (winter)."
