Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association

Uncover Anza-Borrego's wonders through education and exploration

ABDNHA Calendar of Events

Uncover Anza-Borrego's wonders through education and exploration

ABDNHA Calendar of Events
Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association

Visit ABDNHA's Desert Nature Center, Gift Shop In Borrego Springs

Your Local Source for Hiking Guides, Wildlife Books, Local Gifts, Expert Guidance, Educational Programs, and More, Located at 652 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA.

Your Local Source for Hiking Guides, Wildlife Books, Local Gifts, Expert Guidance, Educational Programs, and More, Located at 652 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA.

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  • The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association, gift shop, pottery

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Shop ABDNHA Online

Support the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association's mission to educate and entertain through eclectic musical events. Your tax-deductible donations fund concerts for the community and local schools, sustaining the arts in Borrego Springs since 1975. 501c3 Non-Profit Corporation.


Shop ABDNHA Online

ABDNHA Visitor Plaza

Take a leisurely walk around the building for enriching lessons on the area's history, geology, and wildlife, enhancing your Anza-Borrego Desert experience.

ABDNHA OUTSIDE

ABDNHA Desert Garden 

Visit & Relax

Visit & Relax

ABDNHA Desert Garden 

Explore the ABDNHA Desert Garden in Borrego Springs, where artistic landscapes meet a vibrant ecosystem of desert flora and fauna, open daily from sunrise to sunset. Enjoy shaded walkways, wildlife sightings, and a glimpse into local history, all in a serene setting.


This public oasis welcomes visitors for leisure and small-scale events by reservation.


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borrego dark sky coalition

About The Borrego Springs Dark Sky Coalition

In 2007, Borrego Springs residents formed a committee to achieve Dark Sky Certification from the International Dark Sky Association, culminating in the approval of a comprehensive 90-page application in 2009, which included a lighting survey, educational initiatives, lighting modifications, and regulatory assurances for sustained low light levels. Learn more on darksky.org!


>>An Enlightening Interview, New Dark Sky President -  Article by Nancy McRae


“THE SAND PAPER” ABDNHA MEMBER NEWSLETTER

"The Sand Paper," published five times a year by ABDNHA, features in-depth articles on the Anza-Borrego region, ranging from natural history to cultural insights. Members receive early access to event information and exclusive opportunities to engage with the content and community activities.

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Donate to the ABDNHA Today!

ABDNHA (founded 1971), a 501(c)(3) non-profit, educates and inspires desert appreciation. Visit their store (652 Palm Canyon Dr.) for info & events! Donate today and make a difference.

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Become a Member of the ABDNHA, a community passionate about desert education, conservation, and sharing its wonders.


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Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA)

The Impact

Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA)

The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) plays a pivotal role in both the local community of Borrego Springs and the wider appreciation of the Anza-Borrego Desert region.



Here are some key impacts of the ABDNHA:

Educational Outreach

ABDNHA's educational programs, lectures, and tours provide invaluable learning opportunities for all ages. By offering a deeper understanding of the desert's ecology, geology, flora, and fauna, ABDNHA fosters a greater appreciation and respect for natural environments among residents and visitors alike.

Conservation Awareness

Through its various initiatives, ABDNHA raises awareness about the importance of conserving delicate desert ecosystems. Its efforts help to protect and preserve the natural beauty of the Anza-Borrego Desert for future generations, highlighting the critical balance between human activity and environmental stewardship.

Civic Participation

ABDNHA acts as a community hub, bringing together people with a shared interest in the desert's natural history and cultural heritage. Its events and programs create a sense of community among Borrego Springs residents and provide an inviting atmosphere for visitors, enhancing the social fabric of the area.

Economic Contribution

By attracting visitors to Borrego Springs for hikes, lectures, and special events, ABDNHA contributes to the local economy. Tourists and participants in ABDNHA programs often support local businesses, lodging, and dining establishments, thereby boosting economic activity in the region.

Research

ABDNHA supports and often collaborates in research projects and documentation efforts related to the Anza-Borrego Desert. These scholarly activities contribute to the scientific understanding of the area, adding to the body of knowledge on desert environments and informing conservation strategies.

Cultural Preservation

ABDNHA's work extends to the preservation of the cultural heritage of the Anza-Borrego Desert, including the history and traditions of its native peoples. By educating the public about the region's rich cultural past, ABDNHA ensures that this important aspect of the desert's identity is not forgotten.

Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association


P O BOX 310

652 Palm Canyon Drive.

 Borrego Springs, CA 92004


Office: 760-767-3052

Desert Store & Nature Center:

760-767-3098

Learn More About Anza Borrego

June 11, 2025
One Course, Many Possibilities Rams Hill Golf Club in Borrego Springs, California , remains one of Southern California’s most reliable golf destinations—offering a championship-caliber experience in a setting that adapts easily to different types of getaways. Whether you're planning a golf-focused weekend or a slower-paced retreat with friends or family, Rams Hill provides the foundation.  It’s not uncommon for guests to return to the same rental, play the same number of rounds, and dine at the same favorite restaurant—yet walk away with a completely different experience. Golf Designed for Everyone Designed by Tom Fazio , Rams Hill’s 18-hole course features dramatic elevation changes, wide landing areas, and expansive views across the Anza-Borrego desert. Multiple tee options suit a wide range of players, from scratch golfers to those still learning the game. Small but memorable touches—like tacos at the turn and post-round cookies—round out the experience. Paired with Stay & Play homes like The Desert Escape, guests can enjoy the convenience of staying on site while having space to relax, cook, or host small gatherings between rounds. Repeat Stays, Fresh Experiences One trip may focus on competitive rounds with fellow golfers. Another might center around a mixed group, some playing full rounds, others enjoying shorter outings or relaxing at the rental. The shared element is consistency: excellent course conditions, helpful staff, and the option to shape your schedule any way you like. Even repeat visitors report that the experience shifts depending on the group, the season, and how the trip is planned—without sacrificing the sense of quality or hospitality Rams Hill is known for. Summer in Borrego: More Than Golf While winter and spring are peak golf seasons, summer in Borrego Springs offers a quieter experience with wide-open skies, minimal traffic, and more room to explore beyond the course. For those interested in art, photography, or stargazing , the summer months offer clear air, high contrast light, and dramatic desert color. Visitors often combine their golf plans with stops at the Borrego Art Institute , which hosts rotating exhibitions and operates a garden-focused ArtPark nearby. Just a few minutes away, The Gallery at The Palms presents contemporary shows in a mid-century modern setting surrounded by native landscaping. These creative spaces offer a thoughtful balance to a golf itinerary and allow non-golfers to enjoy the weekend just as much. Dining in Borrego Springs Borrego Springs also offers a variety of local dining options , from casual cafes to full-service restaurants. Onsite, Rams Hill Restaurant is open to the public and known for elevated fare with sunset views over the course. In town, diners will find locally owned spots offering everything from breakfast staples to seasonal specials—many of which are open year-round. Easy to Reach, Hard to Forget Just under a two-hour drive from San Diego , Rams Hill is a short trip that feels far removed. Guests often return to familiar settings—the same house, same course, even the same server—and still leave with a new favorite moment.
 ABDNHA Desert Garden and ArtPark Garden
January 13, 2025
Discover the ABDNHA Desert Garden and ArtPark Garden in Borrego Springs. These free, must-visit spots near Christmas Circle offer a unique blend of natural beauty and artistic expression. Perfect for nature and art lovers!
December 13, 2024
Discover the story behind the Hawkwatch documentary, showcasing the Swainson's Hawk migration, citizen science efforts in Borrego Springs, and the push for conservation.
November 4, 2024
Discover the exciting 2023-2024 activities offered by the Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association, including hikes, stargazing, conservation efforts, and educational programs. Join us to explore the wonders of the Anza-Borrego Desert.
October 28, 2024
Sunbelt Publications: Sharing the Stories That Shape Our Land For over 36 years, Sunbelt Publications has brought readers closer to the natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage of California, the Southwest, and Baja California. Through award-winning publications, Sunbelt has become a cornerstone of regional storytelling, inspiring readers to connect with and conserve the unique landscapes and histories that shape our communities. Sunbelt’s Commitment to Education and Conservation Sunbelt Publications specializes in books that explore natural science, regional history, and cultural stories, emphasizing the connection between people and their environment. Through their own titles and collaborations with like-minded authors, Sunbelt remains committed to fostering a deep understanding of and appreciation for the regions they serve. They believe that by educating readers, they can inspire a sense of stewardship that leads to conservation. Built on a Legacy of Passion and Vision Sunbelt Publications was born from Diana and Lowell Lindsay’s passion for the Southwest, starting as a small-scale distribution network that allowed them to share regional stories with a growing audience. Over time, it evolved into a respected publishing house, recognized not only for its quality titles but also for its dedication to supporting local conservation efforts. From its humble beginnings, Sunbelt has grown into a trusted resource for books that reveal the hidden gems of the Southwest and beyond. The Story of Sunbelt Publications
September 15, 2024
Explore the best stargazing spots in Borrego Springs, California, with a stargazing map by the Dark Sky Coalition. Discover popular locations and tips for a perfect night under the stars.
September 12, 2024
Meet Dennis Mammana, a passionate astronomer with nearly five decades of experience in unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. Dennis’s journey began in Easton, PA, where he was captivated by the launch of the first Earth-orbiting satellites in the late 1950s.
September 11, 2024
Discover popular hiking trails in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Explore scenic routes, palm oases, and historic sites.
Borrego Desert Nature Center
August 23, 2024
Explore the ABDNHA Desert Nature Center at 652 Palm Canyon Drive. Learn about local history, flora, and fauna through outdoor panels, shop for desert-themed items, and visit the ABDNHA Desert Garden.
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The Borrego Springs Community Concert Association Events