How big is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park?

More than 600,000 acres, or roughly 1,000 square miles. It is the largest state park in California and the third largest in the United States, spanning parts of San Diego, Riverside and Imperial counties.

How much does it cost to enter Anza-Borrego?

Day use is $10 per vehicle, collected at the Visitor Center, developed campgrounds and several popular trailheads including The Slot and Hellhole Canyon. The park has no entrance gates and much of it can be accessed without a fee.

When is wildflower season at Anza-Borrego?

Annual wildflowers can appear from January through mid-April, with peak bloom most often between late February and early April. Timing varies year to year based on rainfall and temperature.

Is Anza-Borrego a Dark Sky Park?

Yes. The park was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2018 at Silver tier. Borrego Springs, the town at its center, has been an International Dark Sky Community since 2009, the first in California.

Do I need four-wheel drive at Anza-Borrego?

Not for the paved roads, the Visitor Center or the main campgrounds. The vast majority of the park's roughly 500 miles of dirt roads do require a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park open at night?

Yes, the park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. The Visitor Center is open daily 9am to 5pm October through May, and weekends and holidays only June through September.

Shandel Sutherland • August 17, 2024

Bailey's Cabin in Upper Coyote Canyon: Anza Borrego

Exploring Bailey's Cabin in Anza-Borrego’s Upper Coyote Canyon

Tucked away in the remote Upper Coyote Canyon, within the vast Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, lies Bailey's Cabin—a historic gem that invites both adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.

A Glimpse into the Past

Bailey's Cabin was constructed in the late 1930s or early 1940s, likely by the Larner Brothers after acquiring the land from Jim Wellman. Originally used as an outpost for cattle ranching, the cabin has withstood the test of time, serving as a shelter for countless adventurers over the years. The cabin’s stone walls and simple amenities offer a stark contrast to the harsh desert environment, providing insight into the life of early settlers in this rugged landscape.

The Journey to Bailey's Cabin

Reaching Bailey's Cabin is an adventure in itself. By vehicle, the only route is via the "Turkey Grade," a road that can be treacherous, especially after rain. For those on foot, horseback, or bike, access is also available from Lower Coyote Canyon, offering stunning views and the natural sounds of the desert. Remember to check with Anza-Borrego State Park for updated road conditions and trail closures, as the area is periodically closed to protect bighorn sheep.

The Cabin Today

Today, Bailey’s Cabin stands as a well-preserved piece of history, thanks to the efforts of visitors and the state of California. Inside, remnants of past travelers remain—an old wood-burning stove, a makeshift bed, and scattered pieces of cookware—offering a tangible connection to the past. Outside, visitors can explore the surrounding artifacts, including an old watering trough, a livestock corral, and a primitive outhouse, all of which add to the cabin’s historical charm.

Baileys Cabin Upper Coyote Canyon, water source

Bailey's Cabin in Upper Coyote Canyon: Anza Borrego Campsite

An Ideal Overnight Adventure

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Anza-Borrego experience, an overnight stay near Bailey’s Cabin is highly recommended. The area surrounding the cabin provides ideal spots for dry camping, with flat terrain perfect for setting up a tent. This remote location ensures a peaceful and undisturbed night under the desert stars, far from the noise of civilization.

Camping Tips:

Water: As this is a dry camp, it’s essential to bring plenty of water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. The desert environment of Anza-Borrego can be unforgiving, so hydration is crucial.

Supplies: Bring enough food and camping gear to keep you comfortable throughout the night. Given the cabin's secluded location, you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient.

Weather: Be prepared for temperature fluctuations. Desert nights can be significantly cooler than the daytime, so pack appropriate clothing and sleeping gear.

Leave No Trace: Ensure you pack out everything you bring in to maintain the pristine condition of the area.

Benefits of Staying Overnight

Stargazing: The remote location offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the region, thanks to the dark skies of Anza-Borrego.

Quiet Solitude: Experience the serene and tranquil environment that only a remote desert location like Upper Coyote Canyon can offer. The absence of human-made noise creates an ideal setting for reflection and relaxation.

Morning Exploration: By staying overnight, you’ll have the chance to explore the surrounding area in the early morning, when Anza-Borrego’s desert landscape is at its most beautiful.

Bailey's Cabin is not just a historical site; it’s the perfect starting point for a memorable overnight adventure in the stunning and vast landscape of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Whether you’re a history buff, an avid hiker, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Bailey's Cabin in Upper Coyote Canyon is a destination well worth the journey.