May 1, 2010

Ride north out of Anza-Borrego on Highway 86 to the community of Mecca where you will find a market and a few restaurants. Get your food and supplies here. Then, head south on Highway 111. All campgrounds are located on the east side of the sea. The “Headquarters” campground is nicely developed and has running water, showers and even WiFi! If you arrive by bicycle, camping is only $5 USD per night.

From the State Park Headquarters, it’s a short ride to some natural oases, where you can hike through dense and lush palm trees. The temperature is noticeably cooler and you'll see large puddles of water that have come up from the ground to support the enormous palms and animals of the desert.

The desert is usually the last place most people think to tour. However, when the temperature is mild, and if you are properly equipped, the desert can provide a great winter touring destination. You can ride for miles without seeing another vehicle, sleep beneath a canopy of stars and hear nothing but the distant howl of coyotes.

Tag Topics: Issue 45, Russ Roca, travel and tourism

by Russ Roca

May 1, 2010

Latest Comments

RE: Slab City? Salvation Mountain?

Here is a link to all you want to know about Salvation Mountain.
http://www.eugenecarsey.com/camp/salvationmountain/salvationmountain.htm
Sounds like a great ride!

Posted by John Groenhof July 18, 2011 13:04:37
Anza-Borrego

I loved this park as a place to get away from everything. I was there in the early Spring and conditions were lovely. I didn't bike ride, had gone as a art group, but had a blast. Good to go on the during the week to avoid some weekend warriors. This is the largest desert park in North America, 600K acres.

Posted by ron November 14, 2010 19:03:38
Slab City? Salvation Mountain?

I was hoping at least of a nod to the City or the Mountain? I've ridden some of the area mentioned in this article. Another riding spot that might be considered is riding along the Coachella Canal Road. Also stopping at Bombay Beach and Niland was pretty interesting, as are the steam vents outside of Niland. Oh yeah, there's also a secret natural hot springs around here too.

Posted by Allan August 11, 2010 12:42:26
Anza-Borrego S.P.

Great article. I've camped in Anza-Borrego maybe a dozen times (unfortunately never on a bike) and it is one of the best places on earth to be alone and enjoy the silence. Deadly hot in summer but outstanding in spring and fall. Beautiful desert scenery so close to the busy west coast.

Posted by Bill Rockery May 05, 2010 12:25:58