Visit Borrego Springs: 10 Must-Do Activities

America at 250: Reflecting on the Experiment of Independence

American Legion Post 853 Commander Dennis O'Leary (left) and Bob Scribner, owner of Bob's Lock & Key

San Diego History Center Opens America 250 Exhibit Celebrating the Nation's 250th Anniversary

A December 1939 travel magazine captured Borrego Valley as one of Southern California's emerging desert destinations. One of the many historic items preserved with the Borrego Sun collection is a rare issue of Motor and Outing Magazine , published by the Los Angeles Examiner on Sunday, December 3, 1939 . The "Motor and Outing Magazine" was a popular recurring Sunday supplement distributed in the Los Angeles Examiner during the mid-20th century. It primarily featured regional travel guides, automotive lifestyle stories, and outdoor recreational content showcasing destinations and weekend trips across Southern California. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park was officially established by the State of California in 1933 . This particular page shows how Borrego Valley was presented to Southern California travelers in 1939. The accompanying caption describes the valley as “a spectacular cactus scene” and notes that it was part of Anza Desert State Park, highlighting the desert’s seasonal beauty with “spring flowers” blooming in winter. Nearly 90 years later, the image offers a rare glimpse of Borrego as an early desert destination promoted to motorists exploring Southern California by car. The photographs in the feature are credited to John H. C. Stingle , who documented several scenic locations throughout San Diego County for the publication. Historic items like this help tell the story of how Borrego Springs was introduced to visitors long before it became the community we know today. They provide a unique glimpse into early tourism, desert travel, and the publications that showcased the region's beauty nearly 90 years ago. ---- These documents are part of the Borrego Sun materials acquired by Ram Media Foundation . Separately, The Borrego Sun archives are being preserved and digitized by the San Diego History Center , ensuring that decades of Borrego Springs history will be preserved for future generations. To support the future of local media and preserve the past, please contact Andrea at andrea@rammediafoundation.org .

Local barber and cosmetologist Maribel Tellez is donating her time to honor those who have served. As a way to give back to the community that has supported her, Maribel Tellez of Maribel's Chair will be offering free haircuts for veterans on Saturday, July 26, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at American Legion Post 853 , 4515 Borrego Springs Rd., Borrego Springs, CA 92004. "I've been fortunate to receive so much encouragement from this community as I've built my business," said Maribel. "Offering free haircuts is my way of saying thank you to our veterans for their service. I hope you'll stop by and let me give back in a small way." Haircuts are free for all veterans . While there is no charge, donations are welcome and will help support future community outreach efforts. Maribel is a licensed barber and cosmetologist and recently opened Maribel's Chair inside Alicia's Desert Spa . A recipient of the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award , she has built her business while balancing family, work, and a commitment to serving the Borrego Springs community. She is also an active member of OLAX – Organización Latinos , volunteering her time to support local events and families. The event is made possible through the partnership of American Legion Post 853 , which continues to expand its community outreach by hosting programs and services that support both local veterans and Borrego Springs businesses. Event Details Free Haircuts for Veterans Saturday, July 26 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. American Legion Post 853 590 Palm Canyon Drive Borrego Springs, CA Cost: Free for veterans. Donations are appreciated but never required. Maribel looks forward to welcoming local veterans for an afternoon of appreciation, conversation, and community.

Providing temporary cooling units while residents repair their air conditioning systems or explore HVAC financing options.

Photographers of all skill levels are invited to showcase the beauty of Anza-Borrego Desert and compete in the 2027 Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest. If you love capturing the incredible landscapes, wildlife, wildflowers, or night skies of Anza-Borrego Desert, now is the time to start planning your best shots. The 2027 Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest officially opens November 1, 2026 , giving photographers an opportunity to share the unique beauty of California's largest state park through their lens. Hosted by the Anza-Borrego Foundation , the annual contest celebrates the remarkable scenery, wildlife, and natural wonders that make Anza-Borrego Desert State Park one of Southern California's most treasured destinations. Whether you're a professional photographer or simply enjoy exploring the desert with a camera, everyone is encouraged to participate. Photo submissions will be accepted through theabf.org , with additional contest details, categories, rules, and deadlines available when the contest opens. The contest is made possible through the support of community partners, including Borrego Art Institute, Borrego Valley Inn, Community Valley Bank, Palm Canyon Resort, Rams Hill, Carlee's, and La Casa del Zorro . Now is the perfect time to start exploring the desert and capturing those unforgettable moments. Your next favorite photograph could be the one that earns recognition in the 2027 Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest. Learn more and submit your entries beginning November 1, 2026, at theabf.org .

Youth ages 10–17 can help choose this year’s Borrego Days Parade theme.