Welco from Our Supervisor
It is an honor to be your San Diego County Supervisor for Borrego Springs. My family and I have always enjoyed spending time in this beautiful community, whether it’s hiking the endless trails of the Anza Borrego State Park, relaxing at the resorts, or enjoying the extraordinary food, golf and shopping.
The truly unique experiences offered in Borrego are the spring super bloom, discovering larger than life metal artwork, and appreciating the astronomical wonders only an International Dark Sky Park can offer.
I have had the tremendous fortune of using my piloting skills to fly into the Borrego Valley Airport. Being able to view the desert landscape from the sky
is truly a unique experience and I can honestly say Borrego is the crown jewel of North San Diego County.
I am proud to represent Borrego Springs and the people that call it home. Enjoy the beauty and wonder of Borrego Springs.
Jim Desmond
San Diego County Board of Supervisors, Fifth District
Quick fe e
Fi /Sheri
Non-Emergency
Borrego Springs Fire Protection District . .
Borrego Springs Sheriff Substation .
Uti ties
.760-767-5436
.760-767-5656
Borrego Water District. .
CR&R Disposal Environmental Services .
Ramona Disposal Service .
Republic Services .
San Diego Gas & Electric.
Telephone AT&T.
Zito Media (Internet& Cable) .
T nsportation
Borrego Valley Airport .
Palm Springs Int’l Airport.
San Diego Int’l Airport.
Hospital/Medical
DAP Health, Borrego Springs. .
Eisenhower Medical Center, Rancho Mirage.
JFK Memorial Hospital, Indio
760-767-5806
760-403-4501
760-789-0516
760-355-0004
800-411-7343
800-288-2020
800-365-6988
.760-767-7415
.760-318-3800
.619-400-2404
760-767-5051
.760-340-3911
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Palomar Medical Center Downtown, Escondido. . . . .760-739-3000
Palomar Medical Center, Escondido. .
Palomar Medical Center, Poway . .
Pioneers Memorial Hospital, Brawley .
School/ b ry
Borrego Springs School District. .
Library
.442-281-5000
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.760-351-3333
760-767-5357
Govern nt/Com ty/Park
Borrego Dark Sky Coalition.
.760-767-3052 Chamber of Commerce
County of San Diego
Post Office.
Wildflower Hotline.
In the event of an emergency:.
.858-694-3900
.760-767-0741
.760-767-4684
G etings, Visito and New sidents of Bor go Springs!
Welcome to this unique corner of the world. Surrounded by the amazing 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, our area is exceptional in its physical beauty and remote location.
Borrego Springs offers many great restaurants from quick bites to fine dining along with an array of accommodations, from free primitive camping to top-rated RV parks, affordable motels and hotels to top-of-the-line luxury resorts.
Outdoor activity is big in this area. Explore miles of hiking trails ranging from leisurely to challenging and hundreds of miles of jeep trails, especially for those with fourwheel drive vehicles. We have two parks, the beautiful Christmas Circle Community Park, and a lovely new San Diego County Park next to our world-class library. How about a round of golf on several awardwinning and distinctly different courses? You won’t be disappointed.
Culturally Borrego Springs is unique with its performing arts center featuring worldclass talent, and our multiple art galleries and purveyors of collectibles and antiques. Take time to explore the village. There is more to see than first meets the eye!
Our season is packed with great events starting with the Borrego Days Desert Festival, held in October since its conception in 1966. This family-friendly event features two days of live music, great food, beer garden, arts and crafts vendors, a kids’ zone, a car show, and more.
January brings the annual Borrego Springs Film Festival, now in its season and rated by filmmakers as one of the top 50 festivals in the nation. Filmmakers come from around the world to participate in this five-day event.
March showcases splendor as wildflowers put on stunning displays of natural beauty. Also happening is the Circle of Art juried art show, and the Borrego Art Institute’s Plein Air Invitational. Learn more about these activities and local information by visiting the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce.
Experience the beauty of our area yearround with stunning mountain views in all directions, and more than 100 Sky Art metal sculptures spread across the valley. So, welcome to our wonderful community that cares for each other and the beautiful valley we call home.
Daniel Wright Honorary Mayor
Welco to Bor go Springs!
Borrego Springs is a unique community nestled amidst the vast Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, spanning over 600,000 square miles. Far from urban sprawl and pollution, it is renowned as an International Dark Sky Community and is home to the world-famous Sky Art metal sculptures. The more you explore, the more you’ll uncover about this hidden gem of nature.
For residents of Borrego Springs, every day brings a new experience, from breathtaking sunrises and sunsets casting vibrant colors over the surrounding mountain landscape to occasional sightings of beautiful rainbows. Stunning views from Fonts Point and tranquil canyon hikes make it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Borrego Springs offers a variety of activities for everyone’s taste. You can relax and enjoy our spas at resorts and RV parks, experience world-class golfing, camp at various campgrounds, dine at fabulous restaurants, and shop at downtown shops. Adventure enthusiasts can explore off-road trails in the State Park and Ocotillo Wells SVRA.
The Chamber hosts a range of events,
including Borrego Days—an annual two-day desert festival that kicks off the desert visitors season and the certified farmer’s market on Fridays during the season. Please check our website for event dates hosted by the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce and other local organizations as they resume.
Visitors from around the world come here to experience the desert lifestyle and quickly discover the serenity and stunning vistas not found in big cities. So, while you’re here, explore, relax, and embrace Borrego Springs.
On behalf of the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and staff, we wish you a wonderful and memorable visit.
Kirit Patel
President, Board of Directors, Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce
Board of Di cto
Kirit Patel, President
Ramien Shalizi, Vice President
Corina Garcia, Treasurer
Daniel Wright, Secretary
Carol Brandin, Director
Clint Brandin, Director
Nidia Meza, Director
Mary Purvis, Director
Harry Turner, Director
We’ Glad You’ He !
If you are reading this you are either in Borrego Springs or planning your next adventure to Borrego Springs. As the Executive Director, who started coming to the area for the annual Borrego Days Desert Festival, it never ceases to amaze me the new things I continually discover about the valley.
Borrego Springs is known for being the gateway to the enormous and spectacular Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, we are the second in the world Official Designated International Dark Sky Community and home to the famous Sky Art Metal Sculptures that attract visitors from around the world.
However, it doesn’t stop there. Our unique community offers visitors the opportunity to push their relax button and actually do it. In Borrego Springs you’ll find resorts, RV resorts, camping, hotels, spas, dining and shopping to fit every lifestyle and budget. We have topranked golf courses, miles of hiking–biking and equestrian trails, tennis, arts and culture, mid-century modern architecture and not a stoplight or big box store to be found. In fact, we even have a ‘Selfie Guide’ making it easy for you to find the locals’ favorite photo ops, and yes, we are very pet friendly!
Borrego Springs also has a county airport, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, community parks, a seasonal Friday Certified Farmers’ Market in Christmas Circle and a wonderful small-town vibe that we are proud of and treasure.
Our seasons are packed with events beginning with the Chambers Annual Borrego Days Desert Festival kicking off the season every October. We’re proud to be home to the Borrego Springs Film Festival, cycling events, art festivals, theatre productions,
holiday events and much more. Information is readily available on the Chamber website or give us a call, and be sure you are signed up for our Chamber Weekly eblast which is always packed with community information. With all of that said, please make your first stop the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center on Palm Canyon Drive. We have everything you’ll need along with a knowledgeable and friendly team to help make your Borrego Springs adventure into a true experience explaining our hashtag #embraceborrego . See you in Borrego Springs!
For more information on the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce please scan our QR code:
Françoise Rhodes
Executive Director
Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce
Chamber Executive Director Françoise Rhodes at Fonts Point.
Galleta Meadows
Sky Art Sculptures
Little did Dennis Avery know that his passion for free-standing art would quickly become the most sought-after attraction for visitors of all ages when visiting Borrego Springs.
Spread over 1,500 plus acres of undeveloped desert land, over 100 larger-than-life creations roam the valley floor and welcome the public to discover and enjoy art outdoors.
These gifts of visionary town benefactor Dennis Avery and crafted from metal by sculptor Ricardo Breceda are so life-like in their desert surroundings that you’ll proba-
bly wait for them to move. Camels, sloths, llamas, wild horses, sabre tooth tigers, mammoths, giant birds, wild pigs, sheep, tortoises and yes, the famous dragon, seem to coexist despite time and rivalries. Breceda’s creations also include sculptural representations of Homo sapiens, including Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza, who is said to have trekked through this desert on his way to San Francisco. When viewing the sculptures don’t be surprised if time stands still, until of course you pose for the ultimate selfie.
For more information, refer to the Sky Art map on the following two pages or contact the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce at 760-767-5555 or on the web at visitborrego.com.
Sky Art Map
FT Sky Art Inspired by Fossil Treasures of the Anza-Borrego Desert
HN Sky Art Inspired by the History and Nature of the Anza-Borrego Desert
WF Sky Art Inspired by Whim and Fantasy
FT-1 Giant Tortoise
FT-2 African Elephant
FT-3 Camelids—Llamas and Camelops
FT-4 Harlan’s Ground Sloth/ Camelops
FT-5 Gracile Sabertooth Cat/ Peccary/ Merriam’s Tapir
FT-6 Shasta Ground Sloth
FT-7 Gomphothere/ Camelops/ Giant Tortoise
FT-8 Gracile Sabertooth Cat/ Extinct Horse
FT-9 Aiolornis in Nest
FT-10 Extinct Horse
FT-11 Columbian Mammoth
FT-12 Aiolornis w/ Prey
HN-1 Gold Miner and Saguaro
HN-2 Spanish Padre
HN-3 1946 Willys Jeep
HN-4 Indian Head
HN-5 Bighorn Sheep
HN-6 Scorpion/Grasshopper
HN-7 Farm Workers
HN-8 Capt. Juan Bautista de Anza
WF-1 Serpent
WF-2 Velociraptor
WF-3 Spinosaurus
WF-4 Carnotaurus/Allosaurus
WF-5 Utahraptor
WF-6 Tyrannosaurus rex
For information about the various sculptures, purchase a copy of the laminated Quick Guide to Sky Art Metal Sculptures in Borrego Springs by Diana Lindsay. Available from merchants in Borrego Springs and at the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce & Welcome Center.
DBor go Days Desert Festival
id you know the desert has seasons? Hot in the summer where life slows down to a crawl, then fabulous from October to mid-May. And when the weather cools the community roars back to life with our first major event, the Borrego Days Desert Festival.
Started in 1966, business owners and residents saw an increasing number of visitors from other states coming to Borrego Springs to escape the cold winter and enjoy the beautiful desert sunshine. With these visitors (nicknamed snowbirds) came economic growth, tourism and a lively atmosphere felt by all.
Community leaders quickly realized how important the snowbirds were to the area and felt that a season opening festival welcoming snowbirds and visitors back to Borrego Springs was the perfect way to officially launch the new season.
Festival – It’s a T dition!
This year marks the 58th Annual Borrego Days Desert Festival, a family friendly weekend held at the iconic Christmas Circle celebrating six months of perfect desert weather. Produced by the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center, attendees enjoy two days of live entertainment, car show, adult beer garden, crafts, artists, food, kids zone and lots of surprises. So join us for Borrego Days and let the season begin!
For more information on the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce please scan our QR code:
Christmas Circle
Whe Locals and Visito
Every community has a park where people gather to people watch, meet friends, enjoy live events, share wedding vows, have family reunions and simply embrace nature. In Borrego Springs that place is Christmas Circle, a uniquely round park that offers something for locals and visitors, children, teens and grownups.
Originating in the early 1950s, the land was donated by the DiGiorgio family in honor of A.A. Burnand. Time passed and the park developed into what locals refer to as “the hub of the community.” Christmas Circle is covered with a thick layer of luscious green grass and beautiful mature trees offering plenty of shade for park goers when there to use the gazebo, stage, picnic tables, kitchen, or public restrooms and all with plenty of parking. So why named Christmas Circle? There
are several theories but local sources say the most likely is the park was named after the cattle brand with the word XMAS inside a circle. If you look at the street signs in Borrego Springs many of the roads are named after cattle brands as ranching dates back to the 1700s when ranchers regularly moved herds between coastal, mountain, and desert lands which they owned or leased and as the weather determined the viability of pasturage. Today those ranches are long gone, but their legacy lives on throughout California.
In 1997 the park property was deeded to a new (and current) 501 (c) (3) nonprofit, the Christmas Circle Community Park, Inc. and is home to many of Borrego’s signature events including the Annual Borrego Days
Visito Co to Play Community Park
Desert Festival, sponsored by the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce and marking the official start of the popular desert season. Other happenings include the weekly Farmer’s Market, Annual Circle of Art Show and many more. Today this wonderful Borrego Springs icon is maintained by grants and private donations and welcomes events. To donate or learn more about Christmas Circle Community Park please call (509) 936-1592.
700 Christmas Circle Dr. Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Exploring Bor go Springs
For the cycling enthusiasts of all levels, bicycling in Borrego Springs can be quite an adventure. We’ve listed three routes exploring different areas to ride at your leisure. All routes begin and end at the Borrego Springs Chamber of
Commerce, where you’ll find a friendly staff to help answer your questions about the area. Restrooms are located at the Chamber and can also be found at Christmas Circle, which you’ll pass on two of the routes.
These routes were designed by bicyclists and not by the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce. We remind you to wear a helmet and take water.
North Loop
9.5 miles – completely flat route
1. LEFT out of the Chamber parking lot on to STIRRUP ROAD (no street sign)
2. CURVE LEFT – now on CIRCLE J ROAD
3. RIGHT at the yield sign onto BORREGO SPRINGS ROAD
4. At the 3.2 mile mark CURVE RIGHT on HENDERSON CANYON ROAD
5. Around the 4.4 mile mark RIGHT at intersection onto DIGORGIO ROAD and turn immediately LEFT onto HENDERSON CANYON ROAD
6. Around the 5.4 mile mark RIGHT onto BORREGO VALLEY ROAD
7. Around the 8.3 mile mark RIGHT at stop sign onto PALM CANYON DRIVE
8. You’ll see the Chamber coming up on your RIGHT, back to the parking lot!
de Anza Golf Estates Loop
7.5 miles – slight uphill grade in the beginning and then flat the remainder of the route
1. RIGHT out of Chamber parking lot and immediate RIGHT onto PALM CANYON DRIVE
2. Follow the road as it curves around Christmas Circle and continue on PALM CANYON DRIVE
3. RIGHT onto OCOTILLO CIRCLE
Springs On Two Wheels
4. CURVE RIGHT at the Y intersection – you are now on LAZY S
5. Enter de Anza Golf Estates
6. RIGHT at intersection onto MONTEZUMA DRIVE
7. CURVE LEFT no on YAQUI ROAD
8. RIGHT at intersection onto CATARINA –stay on CATARINA through many curves
9. LEFT on SAN YSIDRO
10. RIGHT onto BORREGO SPRINGS ROAD
11. RIGHT at yield sign and go ¾ of the way around Christmas Circle and right onto PALM CANYON DRIVE
12. Chamber is up ahead on your LEFT
South Loop
10.6 miles – mostly flat with a slight grade for approximately two miles on Borrego Springs Road
1. RIGHT out of Chamber parking lot
2. Immediately turn LEFT at PALM CANYON DRIVE
3. RIGHT at DIGORGIO ROAD
4. LEFT at intersection onto TILTING T ROAD
5. RIGHT at intersection onto BORREGO VALLEY ROAD
6. Road curves to the right
7. RIGHT on BORREGO SPRINGS ROAD
8. RIGHT at yield sign around Christmas Circle to 2nd RIGHT onto PALM CANYON ROAD
9. Chamber is up ahead on your LEFT
**Please note: The mileage figures were measured with a vehicle and may be slightly different from your bike’s computer. Some roads do not have bike lanes. Bicyclers are riding at their own risk and must abide by county/state laws and rules governing all roads.
Selfie Guide
Borrego Springs offers so many “perfect locations” for the ultimate selfie that we asked the locals what their top favorites are. Enjoy the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce’s “Selfie Guide.”
Special thanks to Miss Borrego Angela Guadalupe Fregoso for helping us with the Guide and showing us her own perspective on fun camera angles. All locations are free and open to the public. We suggest you read the tips so they are easier to find and navigate. Remember to use #embraceborrego when posting on social media.
1. Bor go Springs Chamber of Com e Sky Art C atu s
The creatures are located near the parking lot in the back of the Chamber. While at the Chamber come in and say hello and pick up all types of information about the area.
3. ABDNHA Bor go Bota cal Garden
2. Christmas Ci le Welco to Bor go Springs Sign
Christmas Circle Park is easy to find on Palm Canyon Drive, a beautiful green circle of grass with park benches, restrooms and more.
For those interested in experiencing desert foliage without going into the desert this botanical garden is beautiful, factual and interesting with an easy walking path. Located next to Carlee’s on Palm Canyon Drive.
Sky Art Sculptu s –D gon
With over one hundred metal sculptures scattered throughout the valley, the dragon is probably the most popular for selfies. The dragon is north on Borrego Springs Road o of Christmas Circle. Please, no climbing on the statues!
4. Galleta Meadows
5. AnzaBor go Desert State Park Sign
There are several of these signs throughout the valley, but this one is near the Visitor Center road which will be your next stop. Located at the base of the mountain on Palm Canyon Drive.
7. Bor go Springs Mu l
Located rather inconspicuously at the west entrance of The Center Mall, this spectacular tile mural is definitely a must see. The mural has 1,000 di erent shades of color and was created by Nancy N. Colbath with 100,000 individual pieces.
6. Coyote Canyon
Coyote Canyon is in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and a popular hiking area. O of Palm Canyon Drive go north on Di Giorgio Road until the pavement ends and where your adventure begins. The road is open to any vehicle until you reach the Desert Gardens. After that 4-wheel drive is suggested because the sand gets looser the farther you drive in. You never know what will be blooming or what animals will be roaming in this hidden gem so have your selfie smile ready.
8. ms Hill Golf Cou e Viewpoint
Located at one of the toprated golf courses in the country o of S3 toward Julian, the viewpoints at Rams Hill is all about stunning Borrego Valley views. You’ll find these views from various locations near the clubhouse, so why not stay and have a delicious lunch while there.
Please note some locations might be closed due to weather or other circumstances. These designated locations are suggestions only and are not the responsibility of the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce, as visitors to these sites are doing so at their own risk.
Angela Guadalupe Fregoso, 17, and a senior at Borrego Springs High School, is this year’s Miss Borrego Springs.
Angela has lived in Borrego Springs her whole life. After graduating high school, her plans are to attend California State University San Marcos, earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She hopes to become a Registered Nurse.
At a young age I started to realize how much I deeply care for others. This characteristic of mine led me to choose nursing. I grew up speaking Spanish and learned English along the way, I am now bilingual. Coming from parents who don’t speak English I would love to be able to help those parents and be able to speak to them in their comfortable language, Angela said. “I always had Cal State San Marcos as the school I wanted to go to, being accepted into it and attending this upcoming fall makes me so excited to start a new chapter of my life and to pursue the dreams I have”.
Angela was crowned Miss Borrego Springs 20232024 on October 14, 2023.
Representing my community has been such an amazing experience and a big honor. As a shy person, being Miss Borrego has helped me to become better at socializing and put myself out there. I have gained so much confidence in myself and have learned to never doubt yourself because when you want something you will work as hard as possible for it. Being Miss Borrego is not about looks, it’s about how committed you are to helping your community.
Angela said that being a role model demonstrates her commitment and hard work. It inspires her to always do the best job possible. As well, encourages her and is very touching. Angela described being involved in the community as meaningful and a consistent participation in activities that support and improve upon her social wellbeing.
“I always wondered what being Miss Borrego was, but now as Miss Borrego realizes my year is coming to an end soon I will always hold these memories I created in my heart. I have learned so much, grown as a person and became a better, more sociable person. This experience will forever be the best learning experience of my life and my starting point to a new person.”
The sights and sounds of travel include the delicious tastes of food and Borrego Springs has you covered! Our restaurants serve a wide array of tempting choices that range from five-star to casual dining, poolside delights and full service bars. Visitors and locals enjoy steak houses to continental cuisine, ice cream parlors, cafes and intimate bistros. Locally owned and operated also means fabulous pizzas, American cuisine and sweet tooth satisfiers. In Borrego Springs there’s something for everyone and every budget.
CANYON DR. BORREGO SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
We’ Food Enthusiasts
Like our loyal customers, we’re food enthusiasts, and we make it our mission to ensure that every dish that comes out of our kitchen is made to order with the skill and expertise you’d expect from your neighborhood family restaurant. With so many diverse menu options, you’ll never order the same entree twice!
Whether you’re meeting a group of friends or attending a large party, Carlee’s o ers a complete bar with many options from which to choose. Our professional bartenders will assist you with your selection, or if you’re feeling creative, we’ll mix you up something yummy from our own recipes.
So whether you prefer cold, refreshing beer, a fine selection of vino, or a tasty mixed cocktail, we’re here to serve you.
Burge
All Burgers are a Half Pound of Angus Beef. All Burgers, Sandwiches and Grinders are served with a side. Choices include: Beer Battered French Fries, Cottage Cheese, Homemade Potato Chips, Cole Slaw, House Salad or Sliced Tomato. You can substitute Onion Rings for an additional $1.99
ADD A Fried Egg to any Burger for 1.50
Carlee's Burger Bacon, Avocado & Cheddar
Borrego Burger Bacon & Cheddar
Ortega Burger Mild Green Chiles & Cheddar
Avocado Burger Avocado & Cheddar
Patty Melt Sautéed Onions & Swiss, Served on Grilled Rye
Cheeseburger served with Cheddar. Swiss available on request
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Smothered in BBQ Sauce with Bacon & Swiss
Mushroom Swiss Burger Sautéed Mushrooms & Swiss
Jalapeno Burger Topped with Grilled Jalapenos & Cheddar
Grilled Onion Burger Loaded with Grilled Onions & Topped with Swiss
Hawaiian Burger Glazed with Teriyaki Sauce & Grilled Pineapple
Black-n-Bleu Burger Cajun Blackened & Topped with Melted Bleu Cheese
Baja Burger grilled pickle, onions, Avo, Chipotle Mayo, Swiss & Cheddar on Ciabatta Roll
Turkey Burger Served on a Ciabatta Roll
Veggie Burger "Garden Burger" served on a Ciabatta Roll
Portobello Burger Large Portobello Marinated in Balsamic with Mozzarella
served on a Ciabatta Roll
Beyond Burger Vegan Patty served with Lettuce, Tomato, Onion & Avo on Ciabatta Roll
Chili Size Open Faced Burger Smothered in a Full Cup of Chili, Cheese & Onions
Sandwiches
Steak Sandwich A Charbroiled 8 oz. New York Strip
Center Cut Sirloin Our center cut sirloin sliced and fanned atop a Ciabatta Roll, Bleu Cheese Crumbles, lightly breaded & fried onions. Served w/ a Sweet Onion Curry Sauce
Smoked Pulled Pork Topped with Cole slaw, homemade fried onions & a tangy BBQ
Smoked Cuban A Traditional Cuban Sandwich with our Smoked Pulled Pork
Philly Cheese Steak
Classic Club Turkey, Ham, Bacon, Cheddar, Swiss, Lettuce & Tomato
French Dip
Reuben We Slow Roast our own Corned Beef to Perfection!
Turkey Reuben Grilled Turkey topped with Melted Swiss & Cole Slaw
Sandwiches & W ps
BLTA Loaded with Bacon and we add Avocado
Baja Burger
Grilled Ham & Cheese
Deli Sandwich stacked with your choice of Turkey, Ham, Roast Beef or Tuna Salad
Frisco Grilled Roast Beef & Turkey, Melted Swiss & Cheddar with Sautéed Onions
The Torpedo Loads of Turkey, Ham, Salami, Swiss & Cheddar on a Sourdough Roll
Breast of Chicken Sandwich BBQ add 50 cents
Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Topped with Grilled Ham & Melted Swiss
Baja Chicken Grilled Pickles, Onions, Avo, Chipotle Mayo, Swiss & Cheddar on Ciabatta
Chicken Caesar Wrap Your Favorite Salad wrapped up with a special sauce
Thai Chicken Wrap Thai seasoned Chicken with a toasted Sesame dressing carrots, cabbage, red bell peppers, cucumbers, lettuce and La Choy noodles
California Veggie Wrap Baby Spinach, Red Onions, Yellow Bell Peppers, Black Beans, Chevre tossed in a house vinaigrette & served with a side of Chipotle Mayo
El Nino Grilled Salmon on Ciabatta with cabbage, Pico de Gallo, chipotle aioli & cheddar
Fish Sandwich 2 Fillets of Atlantic Cod
Tuna Salad on a Croissant
Tuna Melt Grilled with Melted Cheddar on Rye
1/2 Sandwich & Cup of Soup Tuna Salad, Turkey, Ham or Roast Beef
Oven Ba d
Grinde
Baked Open Faced on a Sourdough Roll
A Blend of Red Wine Vinegar, Mayo & Seasonings is served *
Turkey & Swiss with Red Onion, Lettuce & Tomato *
Roast Beef & Cheddar with Red Onion, Lettuce & Tomato *
Ham, Salami, Swiss & Cheddar with Red Onion, Lettuce & Tomato *
Chicken & Sun Dried Tomato with Baby Spinach, Red Onion & Swiss *
Sweet Onion, Turkey & Salami with Parmesan, Pickles, Tomatoes, Avocado
Southwestern Chic n Caesar
and Chino's Sweet Onion Dressing
Spicy Pizza Pepperoni & Hot Italian Sausage with Mozzarella & Marinara
Meatball Sub 10 Italian Meatballs topped with Marinara & Mozzarella
Veggie Artichoke Hearts, Bl. Olives, Mushrooms, Onions, Bell Peppers over Marinara
Lu heon Ent es
Fish Tacos Two Tacos with our own sauce served with Rice & Cole Slaw With Beer Battered Shrimp in place of Fish
Fish & Chips 3 Atlantic Cod Fillets with Cole Slaw & Homemade Potato Chips
Shrimp Basket Deep Fried Shrimp with Cole Slaw & Homemade Potato Chips
Southwest Chicken Quesadilla Spicy BBQ with Grilled Onions & Peppers
Steak Quesadilla an 8oz Top Sirloin
Grilled in our Homemade Salsa
Andy's Quesadilla The owners favorite quesadilla created by Chino. An 8oz Top Sirloin Grilled & sauteed with Jalpenos & Onions in our Homemade Salsa, Citrus Juices and Chino's special blend of seasonings
Soups
Choices include Chino's Homemade Chili, Cold Seafood Gazpacho or the Soup of the Day
Salads
All Salads are served on a Large 13" Platter and made with a Blend of Romaine Lettuce Baby Spinach and Iceberg Lettuce. You can add Grilled Flatbread for $2.00
Seafood Salad Bay Shrimp, Krab, Avocado, Tomato & Red Onion
Greek Salad With Cherry Tomatoes, Red Onion, Kalamata Olives, Feta Cheese, Pepperoncini's, Artichoke Hearts, Cucumbers and a Feta Cheese Vinaigrette
Cobb Salad Turkey, Bacon, Tomato, Avocado, Egg & Bleu Cheese
Chef Salad Turkey, Ham, Swiss, Cheddar, Egg & Tomato
Chicken Caesar Salad Simply, The Best Around!
Southwestern Chicken Caesar Tortilla Strips, Black Beans, Cheddar, Monterey
Jack, Avocado and a Special Lime Caesar Dressing
Jerk Chicken Salad Caribbean Jerk Chicken, Bell Peppers, Sliced Almonds
Mandarin Oranges with a Sweet & Zesty Vinaigrette
Stu ed Tomato & Avocado Stu ed with Tuna Salad Served on a bed of Lettuce & Mandarin Oranges
Honey Encrusted Salmon Encrusted in Honey & Chipotle Tortilla Strips, with Sundried Cranberries, Chopped Walnuts, Diced Pineapple and a Strawberry Vinaigrette
Fiesta Salad Topped with seasoned ground beef, tortilla chips, Tomato, Green Onion, Black Olives, Cheddar & Monterey
Jack Cheeses, Sour Cream and a side of Salsa
Appetize
*Salmon Poke Tostadas Fresh Salmon served with Avocado, Mango, Cilantro
Green Onions tossed in Sesame Oil, Rice
Wine Vinegar and Soy Sauce *These items are served raw or undercooked
Vegan Caprese Tofu seasoned, grilled and then chilled served with tomato and fresh Basil then drizzled with balsamic vinegar and a Chile citrus vinaigrette
Shrimp Cocktail Six Tiger Prawns
Topped with Bay Shrimp
Grilled Flatbread With Chipotle Mayo, Sliced Tomato, Fresh Basil Leaves,Roasted Bell Peppers, Drizzled with Pesto and Sprinkled with Chevre
Shrimp & Bacon Flatbread Pesto, Parmesan, Cherry Tomatoes & Red Onion
Topped with Chipotle Aioli
Chicken & Spinach Flatbread Roasted Red Bell Pepper Pesto & Parmesan
Stu ed Mushrooms Stu ed with Italian Sausage & Pesto. Topped with Melted Parmesan. Sautéed in a Balsamic Vinaigrette & Served with Grilled Flatbread
Steak Bites Marinated N.Y. Strip on Garlic Bread with a Spicy BBQ Dipping Sauce
Spinach & Artichoke Dip Made Fresh! Spinach & Artichoke Hearts with a blend of Mozzarella, parmesan and topped with chevre. Served w/ 2 Grilled Flatbreads
Shrimp Cakes Tiger Prawn Cakes served with a cilantro & Chile aioli
Portobello Pizzas Two Large Portobello Mushrooms filled with a
seasoned Tomato Sauce, Fresh Basil & Garlic. Topped with Melted Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese
Ranchero Nachos Chips & Cheese
topped with Chino's Beans--Ranch Style Beans with Grilled Bell Peppers, Jalapenos, Red Onions and Tomatoes, Topped with Sour Cream
Idaho Nachos Onion Battered Potato Wedges topped with Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheeses, Green Onions, Black Beans, Avocado & Sour Cream
Calamari Rings Italian breaded & served with a Sweet & Spicy Chile Sauce
Jumbo Chicken Wings Spicy, BBQ, Teriyaki or Sweet & Spicy Half Dozen Full Dozen
Cowboy Bites Breaded Cheese, Corn, Bacon & Chives with Ranch and Chipotle aioli
Mozzarella Sticks
Chicken Tenders served with Ranch. Spicy or Sweet & Spicy add $.50
Cheesy Garlic Bread Served with Marinara Dipping Sauce
Potato Skins
Onion Rings Gourmet Breaded
Chili Cheese Fries A Huge Plate Topped with Homemade Chili, Cheese & Onions Pizzas Choose Regular or Thin Crust. *Our Thin Crust is Vegan & Gluten Free
Pizzas
Carlee's Supreme Pepperoni, Italian Sausage, Onion, Mushroom, Black Olives, Green & Red Bell Peppers Pizzas
Carlee's Greek Spinach Under the Mozzarella, Feta Cheese, Kalamata Olives, Artichoke Hearts, Tomatoes, Red Onions and Pepperoncini Peppers
Hawaiian Ham & Pineapple. Ask For Shaved Almonds for Something Di erent
Vegetarian Tomato, Basil, Portobello Mushrooms, Artichoke Hearts Onions, Black Olives, Green, Yellow & Red Bell Peppers
Meat Lovers Pepperoni, Sausage, Ham & Salami
BBQ Chicken Grilled BBQ Chicken, Red Onions & Cilantro with BBQ Sauce
Chicken & Artichoke Grilled Chicken & Artichoke Hearts with Pesto Sauce
Carlee's Margherita Tomato, Portobello Mushroom, Onion, Garlic & Basil
Cheese
AVAILABLE TOPPINGS
Extra Items add $1.29 for Meats, Artichoke Hearts & Portobello Mushrooms. Add $.79 for vegetables Pepperoni, Sausage, Ham, Salami, Onion, Red & Green Bell Peppers, Mushrooms, Jalapenos, Tomatoes, Portobello Mushrooms, Black Olives, Artichoke Hearts, Pineapple, Cilantro & Sun Dried Tomatoes Traditional Pizza Sauce, Pesto and Roasted Red Bell Pepper Pesto There is a 50 cent charge for Pizza Take Out Orders
DINNER ENTREES
Served 5pm-9pm Entrees served from 5-9pm Daily. Each Entrée comes with a choice of soup or salad. Entrees other than Pastas and Fajitas include blend of Chef's Vegetables and Choice of Baked Potato, Chef's Mashed Potato, French Fries or Rice Pilaf
Steaks & Ribs
Our Ribs are slow roasted with a Rubbing Spice and then finished on the Grill
Half Rack of Baby Back Ribs
Full Rack of Baby Back Ribs
Cajun Blackened Steak Our New York Strip Cajun Blackened Served atop Grilled Onions, Mushrooms and Bell Peppers on a Sizzling Cast Iron Skillet Topped with a Tomato Remoulade
Large Rib Eye 14oz
New York Strip 12oz
Filet Mignon 8oz topped with a Madeira & Portobello Mushroom Sauce
Shrimp Bacon Flatb ad
Madeira & Portobello Mushroom Sauce is available for any Steak for an additional $2.00
Pastas
Chicken Penne Grilled Breast of Chicken sautéed with Tomato & Fresh Basil in a Garlic & Chardonnay Cream Sauce
Tequila Chicken Fettuccine Yellow & Red Bell Peppers, Mild Jalapenos Sautéed in a Light Tequila Sauce, Shrimp in place of Chicken
Sun Dried Tomato & Steak Cajun
Blackened Top Sirloin Steak, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Red Onion in a Brandy & Tomato Sauce served over Bow Tie Pasta
Baja Penne Cajun Blackened Chicken with grilled Tomatoes in a Crushed Garlic & Red Pepper Cream Sauce
Blackened Shrimp Fettucinne with a Roasted Red Bell Pepper Pesto
Shrimp Scampi Six Tiger Prawns sautéed with fresh Basil in a Beurre Blanc
Scallops & Pesto Jumbo Sea Scallops, Bell Peppers, Mushrooms & Onions in a White Wine & Pesto Sauce
Baked Penne Spicy Italian Sausage, Onions & Peppers in Marinara Sauce
Oven Baked with Penne and topped with Mozzarella & Parmesan. Served with Garlic Bread
Pasta Primavera Tomato, Basil, Portobello Mushrooms, Onions, Artichoke Hearts, Black Olives, Green, Yellow and Red Bell Peppers, plus Chef's choice of other fresh vegetables sauteed in Garlic, Onions
Chardonnay & Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Served over Bow Tie Pasta
Seaf d
Grilled Salmon served with a Malibu Mango Relish
Jumbo Sea Scallops sautéed in Lemon Butter & Capers
Sizzlin' Shrimp Caribbean
Seasoned Shrimp served on a Sizzling Hot Skillet with Mixed Vegetables and Rice. Available in Teriyaki, Spicy or Sweet & Spicy Sauces
Other Ent es
Liver & Onions Grilled over Bacon and our Specially Seasoned Onions
Medallions of Beef Tenderloin
Two Medallions of Tenderloin marked & fi nished in the oven with Garlic and Bleu Cheese then topped with a Balsamic Reduction
Sirloin Scampi an 8oz Top Sirloin Steak & 3 Tiger Prawns sautéed in White Wine, Butter, Garlic, Tomatoes & Fresh Basil
Mixed Grill Combo Dinner for Two…or more Includes Two Boneless Chicken Breasts, 12 oz of Top Sirloin Steak and Six Tiger Prawns All are Marinated in Chino's Blend of Citrus Juices and Seasonings. Served with Grilled Green Onions on a Sizzling Skillet. Includes a Large Salad and Boat of Rice Pilaf Chicken Entrees
Chic n
Fried Chicken 3 piece
Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Served with Grilled Pineapple
Sizzling Chicken Fajitas Marinated Chicken, Grilled Onions & Bell
Peppers With Lettuce, Tomato, Sour Cream, Salsa and Guacamole. Flour Tortillas & Frijoles
Beve ges
Pepsi Diet Pepsi Sierra Mist
Mug Root Beer Dr. Pepper
Mountain Dew GingerAle
Iced Tea Pink Lemonade
Raspberry Iced Tea
Co ee & Herbal Teas
Aquafi na Bottled Water
San Pellegrino Mineral Water
Juices
Orange Cranberry Grapefruit Pineapple
Wi
House-Salmon Creek
Forest Glen Pinot Grigio
Carmenet Pinot Noir
Robert Hall Sauvignon Blanc
Castoro Bottle Only-Ask Your Server
CORKAGE IS $8.00 PER BOTTLE
House wines include Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon & White Zinfandel
Carmenet Wines & Clos du Bois Wines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot & Chardonnay
**Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfi sh or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions
Extended Hours in Bar We accept Visa, Master Card, American Express & Discover There is a $1.50 Charge for all split Sandwiches and Salads There is a $3.50 charge for Split Dinner Entrees There is a 50 cent charge for each item packed for take out . We are not responsible for lost or stolen items. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE SERVICE TO ANYONE
YOUR LOCAL BAR & GRILL OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Kitchen Hours 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
The perfect accommodations might be an upscale resort, vacation rental, hotel, RV resort, pet-friendly lodging or a campground. In Borrego Springs you’ll find it all and for every budget. So no matter what type of lodging you’re looking for, pack up the kids, pets, and all of your toys for an experience like none other in the hidden gem of the desert, Borrego Springs.
Daily,weekly,monthlyandannualrates. Heatedswimmingpoolandspa. Seasonalandlong-termsiterentals. Long-termhomerentals Privatesitesscreenedbymature oleanders. Beautifulclubhousewithfullkitchen, fireplace,loungingareas&flatscreen TVs. Heatedswimmingpool. Homesfor saleandrentmanufacturedandparkmodels.New andpre-owned. FreeWiFithroughoutthecommunity. Poolsidebarbecuebar&firepit.
Bor go’s sorts
Borrego Springs is a truly exceptional destination. Surrounded by the unique majesty of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Borrego plays host to hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and our resorts play a huge role in doing it all
Bor go Valley Inn
A serene and peaceful 15-room Southwest style inn, Borrego Valley Inn offers beautiful native gardens, exceptional desert views, a clothing-optional swimming pool, private patios and an abundant continental breakfast. (760) 767-0311 • highwaywestvacations.com
La Casa Del Zorro
with style. Whatever your idea is of a great resort experience, you are likely to find it in Borrego. And, of course, each of those experiences is wrapped in the genuine hospitality for which Borrego has become famous! Here is a snapshot of our resort community.
Bor go Springs sort & Spa
With stunning views and only minutes from downtown Borrego, the Borrego Springs Resort & Spa offers guests spacious rooms with patios/balconies, tennis courts, swimming pools, jacuzzi’s, dining and the relaxing Serenity Spa. (760) 767-5700 • borregospringsresort.com
Rich in history and charm, La Casa del Zorro has been carefully restored to capture the romance and style of its past while offering all the amenities expected of a full-service luxury resort: exceptional food, five swimming pools and 4 tennis courts and 8 Pickleball courts. (760) 767-0100 • www.lacasadelzorro.com
Palm Canyon Hotel & Rv sort
Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort offers a relaxed, Western-style resort hotel with RV facilities, two pools, restaurant, snack store, on-site laundry and full-service bar. (760) 767-5341 • highwaywestvacations.com
ms Hill sort
De Anza Country Club
What country clubs were designed to be, De Anza Country Club does. It offers a championship golf course, excellent dining, condo and home rentals to accommodate your stay and play needs and world-class service. (760) 767-5577 • deanzacountryclub.com
The Palms At Indian Head
A classic mid-century style desert hotel, The Palms at Indian Head boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool, full service bar and restaurant. Private and surrounded by expansive desert views.
760-767-7788 • Thepalmsatindianhead.com
The Springs At Bor go
Come stay in comfortable, fully furnished, park model tiny homes in The Springs at Borrego, a five-star resort and golf course with saltwater swimming pool, hot mineral baths, tennis courts and more. (760) 767-0004 • springsatborrego.com
With a championship golf course designed by Tom Fazio as its centerpiece, Rams Hill Resort offers stay and play packages, an exceptional restaurant with an extensive wine list, pro shop and magnificent views of the Santa Rosa Mountains. (760) 767-3500 • www.ramshill.com
Bor go Ho day Ho s
This peaceful desert community and RV resort features “tiny homes” and RV sites available for rent by the night, week, month or year. Manufactured homes and park models are for sale. (760) 767-3285 • borregoholidayhome.com
Hacienda Del Sol
Bor go Springs Motel
Just two blocks from the shops and restaurants around Christmas Circle, this seasonal, solar-powered, vintage motel offers modern, affordable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and is a short drive from Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. (760) 767-4339 • borregospringsmotel.com
This recently renovated 20-unit hotel is dog-friendly and spread over 10 acres, featuring a 40-foot pool. It is set in the heart of Borrego Springs, steps from entertainment and services. (760) 440-4778 . www.haciendaborrego.com
adRun r Club
Oasis Inn
Revisit the past in this 1950s-style motel and find the serenity you’ve been looking for. Remodeled retro motel rooms, RV accommodations, heated pool, spa, free WiFi, and barbecue area. Within walking distance of Borrego Springs village. (760) 767-5409 • www.oasisinnborrego.com
Own or rent a beautiful, affordable manufactured home in this pet-friendly paradise with access to a members-only 18-hold executive golf course and putting green. This 55+ luxury golf community offers low golf rates for homeowners. (760) 767-5374 • www.roadrunnerclub.com
Stanlunds Inn & Suites
Book your spot now at this classic 1960s desert motel featuring a year-round outdoor pool, barbecue area, free parking and WiFi. Pet-friendly accommodations and a short drive from Borrego Springs. (760) 767-5501 • stanlunds.com
RV Sites
Bor go Ho day
Ho s
Feel at home in the peaceful desert community and RV resort, Borrego Holiday Homes. Known for their “tiny homes” and RV sites, Borrego Holiday Homes provide seasonal and long-term lot rentals at affordable prices. (760) 767-3285
borregoholidayhome.com
The Springs at Bor go RV sort & Golf Cou e
Borrego’s most unique RV camping experience can be found at Springs at Borrego. An RV paradise that features 163 spacious, full hook-up RV sites with double pedestals between each site and 3 fully-furnished “tiny homes” for rent.
(760) 767-0004
springsatborrego.com
Leapin’ zard RV h
Palm Canyon Hotel & RV sort
A TripAdvisor Hall of Fame winning hotel & RV resort, Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort allows you to immerse yourself in the Wild West, with vintage inspired trailer rentals, airstream rentals, and hotel rooms available for rent. Adjacent to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Palm Canyon Oasis. (760) 767-5341 highwaywestvacations.com
Known as the premier RV resort for the Ocotillo Wells and Anza-Borrego Desert area, Leapin’ Lizard RV Ranch offers 60 spaces with sewer, water and power hookups in a secure fenced area, available for daily, weekly or monthly rental. Leapin’ Lizard RV Ranch is the perfect venue for adventure seekers with a wide array of outdoors activities at your disposal. (619) 508-3468
The Borrego Valley has exceptional scenery that by day has plenty of places in which to play. Surrounded by the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, visitors will find countless hiking and camping destinations while discovering endless places to explore our desert’s treasures. During the day take your time and savor this unique and vibrant community, whether strolling our streets or cycling along our many bike paths, but when the sunlight descends be prepared to be dazzled by Borrego’s star filled skies. Both Borrego Springs and the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park are official Dark Sky areas. So when you visit, don’t be in a hurry to rush home, instead stay to watch the other half of the show—the constellations that sparkle in the universe above.
Bor go’s Mag ficent Birds
For anyone who loves birding or thinks they might, Borrego Springs and the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offer exceptional bird-viewing opportunities. Borrego’s range of elevations, from close to sea level to 6,200 feet in the mountain peaks, create a great diversity of habitat that supports a wide range of birds. In fact, it is estimated that more than 300 species of birds can be found in Borrego and Borrego’s surrounds. Most of these birds, like the Swainson’s Hawk or the Wilson’s Warbler are migratory, while others like the Gambel’s
Quail and the Greater Roadrunner are year-round residents.
Roadrunner
Local hot spots for sighting some of these magnificent creatures are Agua Caliente, Lower Willows in Coyote Canyon, Yaqui Well-Tamarisk Grove, Mountain Palm Springs, Bow Willow Canyon, and Palm Canyon. For more information about where you can go and what you can expect to see, visit the Anza-Borrego Desert National History Association’s website at www.abdnha. Eyes to the skies and keep watching!
Erosion ad Ti T vel Driving Tour
The 600,000 acre Anza-Borrego
Desert State Park is a vast wonderland of nature’s beauty and terrain that dates back millions of years. It also offers adventure seekers miles and miles of hiking trails and dirt roads that are often comprised of soft sand, large boulders and other hazards. However there’s another way to enjoy this same experience from the comfort of your air conditioned vehicle, the driving tour of Erosion Road.
Erosion Road is also known as S-22 (Borrego-Salton Sea Way), which runs between Highway 86 and the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitors Center on Palm Canyon Drive in Borrego Springs. **This 21 mile driving tour has 12 different turn-outs, some with easy signage and parking, and others with dirt and sandy roads.
This hour long adventure (depending on how often you stop and revel in the jawdropping views) will take travelers back in time when the area was covered in grassy marshes, lakes and streams and when
sloths, mammoths and sabre-toothed cats roamed the land. Many of the turnoffs are easy to find with visible signage, however mapped-out mileage-markers will help travelers find the not so obvious turnoffs all beholding a variety of stunning views of gorges, vistas, canyons, mountains, badlands, and earthquake faults. Sights include Font’s Point, Coyote Mountain, Clark Dry Lake, Borrego Badlands and more. If you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the bighorn sheep, mountain lions, coyotes and other animals who call the desert home. However you choose to experience Erosion Road, make sure it’s on your list of the many things to do and see while visiting Borrego Springs.
Downloadable maps are offered on the State Park website parks.ca.gov, or stop by the Borrego Springs Chamber / Welcome Center for an easy to read printed version.
**Always check road conditions with the State Park before leaving the paved highway.
World War Ii Mi tary History Helped Open The Borrego Valley
The beginning of World War II found the Borrego Valley sparsely populated. The Great Depression had wiped out all but the well-financed homesteaders, but the Navy, Army, and Marine Corps would soon come to this Valley to train men for combat.
The Navy was the first to come and was the most active. The Navy had used Benson Dry Lake in Ocotillo Wells as a landing field before the war. When World War II broke out, the Navy bought the dry lake from Mr. Benson for an aerial bombing and strafing target with an emergency landing field. The Navy constructed more bombing targets at Borrego (now Military) Wash, Halfhill Dry Lake and Clark Dry Lake. Armored observer stations were built at Borrego (Military) Wash and Clark Dry Lake. The observer stations at Clark Dry Lake are still standing. The pilots that used the targets came from the Naval Air Station at San Diego, but the targets were maintained by the Navy base at the Salton Sea.
In 1942 the Army secured a permit to use 400 square miles of the Borrego desert for force-on-force tank maneuvers. Accordingly, the land became known as the Borrego Maneuver Area. The Army paved the Yaqui Pass Road for this mission. Apparently the Army never used the land for tank maneuvers. It did use it for anti-aircraft weapons training and firing and other unknown purposes. Local folklore has Borrego as part of the Desert Training Center, complete with headquarters for General George S. Patton. This most
certainly never happened.
The Marine Corps trained truck drivers to drive in the desert at night in Borrego. They had to learn to drive in tight convoys in blackout conditions. Ensign Ranch was used as a bivouac area. Every Friday, trucks would bring new trainees. If a driver passed the course, he got to go back on one of the same trucks. If he didn’t, he got to live in the desert for another week. Few failed.
As the war was ending, the military returned the land to its rightful owners with two exceptions. Benson Dry Lake was deeded to San Diego County and it is still used as an unimproved county airport. The Navy retained a bombing range just outside of the AnzaBorrego State Park border, now known as the Carrizo Impact Area. It was used through the Korean conflict. It has since been closed due to the danger of unexploded ordnance (bombs).
While the military activity in the Valley surely harmed the delicate ecosystem, the paving of the Yaqui Pass Road made the Borrego Valley accessible to post-war settlers and visitors alike, accelerating the development of the Borrego Springs area and the popularity of Anza-Borrego State Park.
There is little left to document the rich military history of the Borrego Valley.
Fast forward to today where Borrego Springs is now a popular destination for armed forces parachute training from all over the world. You never know what our amazing skies have in store for you in Borrego Springs.
Shopping in Borrego Springs is as unique as its surroundings. With no “big box” stores or the typical mall we seem to find everywhere; Borrego Springs instead offers exclusive individualized shopping venues. Browse our one-of-a-kind boutiques and shops and let our friendly and knowledgeable staff show you everything from outdoor gear to housewares, gourmet wines to hand-crafted jewelry and accessories, children’s books and toys to incredible art, pottery, and of course something to wear for any occasion.
Look around and you’ll see why artists of all methods love Borrego Springs. With breathtaking and inspiring views that dramatically change colors as the day progresses, Borrego welcomes artists from around the world who either call Borrego Springs home or visit annually.
The vibrant arts and culture scene includes performing arts and education opportunities, live theatre, art galleries, photography studios, sculptures and local crafts. It’s always fascinating to see how the area inspires the creativity in others.
Bor go’s Hollywood History
Borrego Springs has a long history with Hollywood and film makers from around the world who find the region’s location a versatile backdrop for their various stories. The town’s film history begins in 1920 with a feature length film depicting the rescue of a damsel in distress using an iconic touring car of the times, the Maxwell Touring Car.
Once filming started in Borrego Springs it didn’t take long for celebrities to discover the Hoberg Resort (now The Palms at Indianhead) which became a well-known Hollywood hideout in the late 40’s to early 50’s as a place for the famous to escape their hordes of fans. Clark Gable, Bing Crosby, Marilyn Monroe, Raymond Burr, Charles Laughton, and Lon Chaney Jr. are just a few of the luminaries who wanted to get away from the Studios to relax and let loose! Soon this wonderful getaway called Borrego Springs evolved into a place to live for celebrities such as Lucille Ball, Gale Gordon and Burgess Meredith to name a few.
Filming in Borrego Springs offered directors an immense range of landscapes that varied enough to substitute for many localities around
the world. Films such as THE DESERT FOX (1951) used Borrego’s deserts rather than go all the way to the North African Sahara Desert to produce this iconic WWII war film about General Erwin Rommel and with Los Angeles only about a 3–4-hour drive from studios to shooting locations, financially it made perfect sense.
In recent years Borrego Springs has seen television crews film episodes for many series such as the X-FILES, which came to shoot two episodes of their iconic series in 2000 and 2002. BANACEK (1972), a detective series with George Peppard and DYING ROOM ONLY (1973) a murder mystery with Clois Leachman. Even big box films like SCORPION KING (2002) with Dwayne Johnson as the sword wielding hero and Ewan McGregor playing Jesus Christ and the Anti-Christ in LAST DAYS IN THE DESERT (2015) used our desert backdrop to help tell their stories effectively for their audiences.
Today independent film makers from many states and countries use our area for commercials and small films prompting Borrego Springs to hold its own annual film festival celebrating the independent film makers of today. From film, to photo shoots and music videos, Borrego Springs continues and welcomes its Hollywood connection!
Join us for the Annual Borrego Springs Film Festival when we celebrate filmmaking in our desert. For more information visit BorregoSpringsFilmFestival.org.
Written by local historian Fred Jee
Bor go Springs Whe Sta A Meant To Be Seen
On Friday, July 31, 2009, Borrego Springs was designated by the International DarkSky Association (IDA) as only the second official International Dark Sky Community on earth—and the first in California. While not perfectly dark, Borrego skies offer views of the heavens that are not visible to 22 million people living along the urbanized coast of Southern California.
The International Dark Sky Places Program promotes preservation and
protection of night skies across the globe. It aims to protect locations of exceptional nighttime visages for future generations while inspiring res ponsible lighting policies and public education to stimulate respect for the night sky.
To learn more about Borrego Springs Dark Sky Community and what this entails please contact the Borrego Dark Sky Coalition at abdnha.org/borregodarksky/ or by calling 760-767-3052.
Discover Mid-Century A hitectu
As Palm Springs grew in popularity Hollywood icons were soon in search of a new hideaway to relax, play golf and have fun. It was Borrego Springs that welcomed the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Bing Crosby, John Wayne, Lon Chaney Jr., James Dean, the Rat Pack and Burgess Meredith, to name a few. Along with the many famous faces came Mid-Century Modern homes known today by some as Desert Modern.
Springing up in 1945 until the late 1960s, this unique architectural style is defined by large glass windows, flat planes combined with striking angles and what we refer to today as open concept centered on nature and simplicity.
In Borrego Springs you’ll find residential and commercial builds from famed mod-
ernist architects Richard Zerbe, William Cody, Leo Raffaeilli, Cliff May, William Krisel and Henry Hester.
We don’t have a map to guide you, but some designs you’ll spot on Palm Canyon Drive in plain sight. However, we suggest you start where it all began at de Anza Country Club, whose private clubhouse was designed by Richard Zerbe and Hal Martinez. Take your time and drive through de Anza Golf Estates to experience the beautiful Mid-Century Desert Modern homes scattered within the country club. But don’t stop there because more homes can be found in the surrounding neighborhoods, and who knows maybe the mid-century home you’ve always wanted is right here in Borrego Springs!
Stanlunds Inn & Suites
Every wonderful experience begins with service and the services offered. In Borrego Springs our services are a significant factor in the “Borrego Experience” because life dictates that we’re not always sure when we’ll need something. Our established community offers a variety of professional services, many of which you’ll find in this guide. However, if you still need help finding a specific business remember to call the Chamber, because we’re here to help! 760-767-5555.
Anza Borrego Desert Natural History Association
652 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-3098
abdnha.org
See ad, page 62
Anza-Borrego Foundation
ABF State Park Store, 587 Palm Canyon Dr., Ste. 110, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-465-2605
theabf.org
Visitor Center Store, 200 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-4205 parks.ca.gov
See ad, Page 2
Anza Borrego Foundation (State Park) 587 Palm Canyon Drive, #122, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-0446
theabf.org
See ad, page 2, 47
The Bargain Barn - American Legion Post #853
Just o Christmas Circle on Avenida Sureste, Borrego Springs (443) 497-1455
thebargainbarn853@gmail.com
See ad, Page 51, 52
Big Horn Burgers & Shakes
221 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-5341 ext. 154
highwaywestvacations.com/properties/ palmcanyon
See ad, page 24
Borrego Art Institute
665 Palm Canyon Drive/P.O. Box 2383, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-5152
Gallery@borregoartinstitute.org
BorregoArtInstitute.org
See ad, page 56
Borrego Holiday Homes
351 Palm Canyon Drive/P.O. Box 1978, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-3285
borregoholidayhome.com
See ad, page 34
Borrego Night Sky Tours
Dennis Mammana P.O. Box 2071, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
dennis@borregonightskytours.com or dennis@ mammana.com
BorregoNightSkyTours.com
See ad, page 44
Borrego Outfitters
The Mall, 579-E Palm Canyon Dr., Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-3502
BorregoOutfi tters.com
See ad, Page 51
Borrego Pool Supply
648-A Palm Canyon Dr., Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-975-1354
See ad, page 62
Borrego Spice and Olive Oil Company
Borrego Spice and Olive Oil Company 1628 der Anza Drive
Borrego Springs, California 92904 (925) 413-5094
Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce & Visitors’ Bureau
786 Palm Canyon Drive/P.O. Box 420, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-5555
BorregoSpringsChamber.com
See ad, page 42
Borrego Springs Community Concert Association
P.O. Box 2426, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-440-5117
BorregoConcerts.org
See ad, page 56
Borrego Springs Film Festival
Borrego Springs, CA, United States, 92004
760-518-0509
borregospringsfi lmfestival.org
See ad, page 55
Borrego Springs Resort & Spa
1112 Tilting T Dr., Borrego Springs, CA 92004
888-826-7734
760-767-5700
borregospringsresort.com
See ad, page 33
Borrego Valley Endowment Fund
575 Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 1225, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
bvefund.org
See ads, pages 62
Borrego Valley Realty
587 Palm Canyon Drive #104, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-1121
mary@borregovalleyrealty.com
BorregoValleyRealty.com
Borrego Valley Inn
405 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-0311
highwaywestvacations.com/properties/ borregovalleyinn
See ad, page 38
Borrego Village Association
BorregoExperience.com
BorregoVillageAssociation.org
See ad, page 56
Carlee’s Bar & Grill
660 Palm Canyon Dr., Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-3262
See ad, page 67 • See menus, pages 28-31
Community Valley Bank
571 Palm Canyon Drive, Suite A, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-5414
yourcvb.com
See ad, page 60
Desert Lovers’ Co.
583 Palm Canyon Dr. Suite D, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
desertloversandco.com
See ad, page 57
Frugal Coyote
590 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-4608
See ad, page 52
Hacienda Del Sol
610 Palm Canyon Drive Borrego Springs, CA 92004 (760) 440-4778
haciendaborrego.com
See ad, page 38
La Casa Del Zorro
3845 Yaqui Pass Road, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-0100
LaCasaDelZorro.com
See ads, pages 60, 68
Laidlaw Plumbing
P.O. Box 2705, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-7723
laidlawplumbing@yahoo.com
See ad, page 62
Desert Dwelle
The Borrego valley is filled with a variety of fascinating creatures that bring wildlife experts, photographers, amateur researchers and students from around the world to this area. From bobcats to coyotes, snakes, tortoises, foxes and jackrabbits, the desert has a fascinating ecosystem teaming with wildlife. When it comes to visitor viewing, two of the more popular groups that come to the area are herpetologists and ornithologists.
more popular groups that herping is the study
Gambel’s Quail (Callipepla gambelii)
Herpetology or herping is the study of traditional reptiles. More than 70 species of snakes, lizards and amphibians are found in Anza-Borrego. Most frequently seen by visitors is the Zebra-tailed Lizard, however we also have the Southern California Legless Lizard, Western Banded Gecko, Glossy Snake and so many more.
Ornithology or birding is of course
the study of birds. At various also have Warblers, Verdin, as many are out in the early
enjoy the show.
the study of birds. At various times throughout the year over 300 species of birds will call the area home. Some feathered friends stay here year-round, while others only to rest as they continue on their journey to nesting regions. Barn Owls, Roadrunners and Hummingbirds are everywhere; however we also have Warblers, Verdin, Flycatchers and the spectacular Swainson’s Hawk migration. Seeing our wildlife may be tricky as many are out in the early mornings and dusk, however one never knows when a coyote will cross your path, bighorn sheep will be seen on the mountain side or a lizard will be sitting on a nearby rock. Wildlife viewing stations are found throughout the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, featuring a magnificent assortment of animals that roam freely over the diverse desert terrain in the valley they call home. Remember they are wild so please keep your distance and just enjoy the show.
Bobcats (Lynx rufus)
Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii)
Leapin’ Lizard RV Ranch
Siegfried & Deborah Traviss
5929 Kunkler Ln., Ocotillo Wells Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-4526
leapinlizardrvranch.com
Oasis Inn Borrego
366 Palm Canyon Dr., Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-5409
OasisInnBorrego.com
Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort
221 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-5341
Palmcanyonrvresort.com
See ad, page 34
Rams Hill Golf & Resorts
1818 Rams Hill Rd., Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-3500
info@ramshillgolf.com
ramshill.com
See ad, page 35
Red Ocotillo
721 Avenida Sureste, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-7400
redocotillo.com
See menu, pages 25-27
Reliance Public Relations
444 S 8th St Suite D, El Centro, CA 92243
760-693-5330
reliancepr.com
See ad, page 52
RoadRunner Club
1010 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-914-2324
roadrunnerclub.com
See ad, page 40
Stanlunds Inn & Suites
2771 Borrego Springs Rd., Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-5501
stanlunds.com
See ad, page 33
The Center Mall
587 & 590 Palm Canyon Dr. Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Food * Retail * Services * Health centermallnews.com
See ad, page 52
The Palms At Indian Head
2220 Hoberg Rd., Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-7788
thepalmsatindianhead.com
coyotesteakhouse.com
See ads, page 24
The Springs at Borrego 2255 Di Giorgio Road, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-0004/866-330-0003
springsatborrego.com
See ad, page 40
Tubs Coin-Op Laundromat
571 Palm Canyon Drive, Suite C, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
760-767-7723
See ad, page 62
