August 5, 2024

Join the Borrego Rock and Gem Club

Discover the Wonders of Geology with BRAG

If you have a passion for rocks, minerals, and general geology, the Borrego Rock and Gem Club (BRAG) in Borrego Springs is the perfect community for you. Established in February 2003, BRAG is sponsored by the Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) and offers a range of activities, educational programs, and field trips focused on Earth Sciences.

Meetings and Field Trips

BRAG meets regularly*, with meetings held on the 4th Wednesday of each month and field trips on the 2nd Wednesday. These gatherings take place at the ABDNHA Activity Room located at 652 Palm Canyon Drive. Meetings are a great opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and learn from experts in the field. During the summer months (June through September), the club takes a break, with activities resuming in October.

*Please note that this schedule is subject to change, and we suggest you contact BRAG for updated information.

Educational Programs and Resources

The club's primary goal is to enjoy and promote the study of Earth Sciences. This is achieved through a variety of field trips, lectures, and hands-on activities that allow members to collect and study mineral, rock, and fossil specimens. BRAG also encourages educational outreach by collaborating with schools, museums, and libraries to spread knowledge about geology.

Lapidary Facilities

ABDNHA supports BRAG members with access to a complete lapidary shop, where they can work on their rock and gem projects. This facility is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about lapidary arts and techniques.

How to Join BRAG

Joining BRAG is a straightforward process. Membership requires joining both ABDNHA and BRAG, which includes membership in the California Federation of Mineralogical Societies (CFMS).

The annual membership fees are as follows:

ABDNHA Basic Membership: $35.00 per year
BRAG Club Dues: $16.00 per year
Additional Family Members: $10.00 each

To join, simply download the BRAG membership packet, fill out the application form, and send it along with your payment to ABDNHA. You can also leave your application at the ABDNHA Nature Center desk.

Get Involved with BRAG

Being part of BRAG is more than just attending meetings and field trips. It’s about joining a community of like-minded individuals who share a love for geology and the natural world. Members are encouraged to participate in club activities, contribute to educational programs, and enjoy the fellowship and understanding that comes from being part of this vibrant club.

For more information, visit the ABDNHA website or contact the club via email at bragmail@yahoo.com.

>> Check ABDNHA for upcoming events and hikes

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

Spring Flowers in Winter | Anza Borrego Desert

By Jake Hinton • December 30, 2025

Borrego Springs, in San Diego County, is experiencing an unusual winter wildflower bloom. Henderson Canyon is already colorful—just about a 90-minute drive from San Diego. (ABDNHA)

Burger Night at American Legion Post 853

By Jake Hinton • December 26, 2025

Weekly Community Burger Night Burger Night at the American Legion in Borrego Springs is a weekly community tradition that brings locals and visitors together for a casual, affordable meal. Open to the public every Wednesday evening, it’s an easy way to enjoy good food, connect with neighbors, and support a local veterans organization. Here’s what to know if you’re planning to attend. When: Wednesdays, 5:00–6:30 p.m. Where: American Legion Post 853 Address: 4515 Borrego Springs Road, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Open to the public Burger Night features burgers or hot dogs with all the fixings , served in a relaxed, welcoming setting. The event is designed to be simple, social, and accessible—no membership required. Why Attend Burger Night is more than just dinner. It’s a standing weekly gathering that supports the work of American Legion Post 853 while offering a consistent place for the Borrego Springs community to connect midweek. Visitors staying in Borrego Springs are welcome, making it an easy addition to a Wednesday evening. Supporting Local Veterans By attending Burger Night, guests are also supporting the American Legion’s ongoing efforts on behalf of veterans and the local community. Events like this help keep Post 853 active and engaged year-round. A Simple Midweek Plan If you’re looking for something low-key to do on a Wednesday evening in Borrego Springs, Burger Night at the American Legion is a dependable option—good food, familiar faces, and a welcoming atmosphere. Learn More About Borrego Springs