February 2, 2023

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: The 5 Palms Oasis

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5 palms in Anza Borrego State Park

Five Palms Oasis: A Remote Destination in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park


The Five Palms Oasis is a small cluster of Washingtonia palms located in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, near Tule Wash. It is one of several palm oases in the park, known for its sparse setting and dry conditions. Unlike other palm groves in the area, Five Palms has no running water source and only features a few palm trees.


Location and Coordinates



This isolated oasis is surrounded by mudstone terrain with visible white salt deposits. These salt patches give the area a unique appearance, contrasting sharply with the dry desert floor.


Washingtonia Palms at the Oasis


The Washingtonia palms at Five Palms are well-adapted to the desert environment. Known for their tall trunks and fan-shaped leaves, these palms survive in harsh conditions, thriving with minimal water.


Accessing Five Palms Oasis


A high-clearance, 4WD vehicle is needed to reach the Five Palms Oasis via the Cut Across Trail. The trail is a rugged jeep route that crosses remote sections of the desert. Though other oases in Anza-Borrego feature larger groves and water sources, Five Palms offers a quieter, more remote experience.


Visiting Tips


This area is dry, and there are no amenities or water sources. Visitors should be prepared for high temperatures and plan accordingly. Despite its remoteness, Five Palms offers a glimpse of how life survives in the desert.




Learn More About Borrego Springs

2026 Borrego Home & Garden Tour

March 2, 2026
Borrego Springs, CA The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) will host the 2026 Borrego Home & Garden Tour on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The public is invited to explore four private homes and gardens at their own pace in Borrego Springs. This annual tour is a fundraiser benefiting ABDNHA, the educational 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports interpretation, education, and stewardship connected to the Anza-Borrego Desert region. Event details Event: 2026 Borrego Home & Garden Tour Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026 Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Format: Self-guided tour of four private homes and gardens Tickets $30 General Public $24 ABDNHA Members $20 ABDNHA Volunteers Early purchase discount: Buy by March 8 and save $2 per ticket . How to purchase Tickets are available online at abdnha.org/gardentour and in person at the ABDNHA Desert Nature Center , 652 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs . Questions: (760) 767-3098 Important guidelines Tickets are non-refundable . For guest safety and property rules, no strollers or dogs are permitted. About ABDNHA The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) is a nonprofit organization that supports education and interpretation in and around Anza-Borrego Desert State Park through programs, exhibits, and community engagement. Media Contact: ABDNHA Desert Nature Center 652 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA (760) 767-3098 abdnha.org/gardentour

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