Being from the Midwest I associate camping with forest, lakes, and prairie land. So when I went out to school in San Diego I was surprised to find that camping in the desert, specifically the Anza Borrego, is quite popular. It’s nothing revolutionary really- just something that never happened to cross my mind. I was excited and skeptical the first time I headed out to the desert; I had been craving to get away from city life for a little bit and experience some of the simpler things in life: the stars, hikes, and a staple on all of my camping trips-smores!
Just the drive from San Diego to the desert is exciting. You start out in the coastal climate of the ocean, make your way up some mountains and about two hours later end up in a desert. I have fond memories of those camping trips: hiking, star gazing, stumbling upon an oasis and enjoying the unusual animals and plants of the desert.
While the average July temperature for the Anza Borrego desert is 107.3, and doesn’t dip below 100 until October, definitely keep this desert in mind for upcoming camping/back packing trips. It is a relatively cheap place to stay (go here for California state park camping rates) and there is a plethora of things to do. Check out the Salton Sea, wildflowers in the spring, Joshua trees, bird viewing…and enjoy a unique slice of Earth!
I plan to highlight some other great camping sites so please comment below on your suggestions/favorites.
Mon, Jul 28, 2008
Eco Travel, Grasslands & Deserts, Green Living