Borrego Springs is small, but there are enough accommodations to suit all travel styles and budgets. Peak season -- from November to April -- corresponds with the most temperate weather and wildflower viewing. Most hotels also post lower midweek rates; substantially cheaper prices are available in summer. Another decent option is Palm Canyon Resort, 221 Palm Canyon Dr. (tel. 800/242-0044 or 760/767-5341; www.pcresort.com), a large complex that includes a moderately priced hotel, RV park, restaurant, and recreational facilities.
Camping -- The park has two developed campgrounds. Borrego Palm Canyon, with 117 sites, is 2 1/2 miles west of Borrego Springs, near the visitor center. Tamarisk Grove, at Hwy. 78 and County Road S3, has 27 sites. The overnight rate at both is $20 without a hookup, or $29 with a hookup (at Palm Canyon only). Both have restrooms with pay showers (bring quarters) and a campfire program; reservations are required in winter/spring high season. Primitive and backcountry camping are also allowed, making this one of the few parks in the country where you can just pull off the road and find yourself a spot to commune with nature. For more information, check with the visitor center (tel. 760/767-4205 or 760/767-5311; www.parks.ca.gov).
