Anza-Borrego Backcountry Permit: Route
Anza-Borrego Backcountry permits are walk-up only in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
This guide covers the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Backcountry Camping permit.
free for open-desert dispersed camping; developed campgrounds (Borrego Palm Canyon, Tamarisk Grove) are fee-based and reservable separately
Permit Cost
About Anza-Borrego Backcountry
The only California state park that allows open desert camping without a permit or fee: pull off within a car length of a road, 100 yards from water, outside posted no-camping zones. No trail to follow; the whole desert is open.
The Anza-Borrego Backcountry route
Points along the route
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center
- Borrego Palm Canyon
- Sheep Canyon
Anza-Borrego Backcountry permit detailsandAll Anza-Borrego Desert State Park permits
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100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for Anza-Borrego Backcountry?
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Yes, a permit is required. Walk-up permits are available at the trailhead or visitor center, but arrive early as they may be limited.
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