Take a Desert Camping Trip to Anza-Borrego State Park

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There are dozens of other hikes that start elsewhere in the park. Some of the most notable ones include:

The Slot: This trail is located deep within a siltstone canyon. After hiking down into the slot, take a left to explore the winding trail, with narrow crevices and openings to slip through. Most of the slot is shaded, making it ideal for summer and early fall campers. Note, this is less of a hike and more of an interesting walk with almost no elevation change, which makes it perfect for families with small children.

Morteros Trail: This short .6-mile hike has more than desert vistas at the top. Once inhabited by the Kumeyaay Indians, this trail leads to a large rock where you'll find morteros, or small grinding bowls, that have been carved deep into the stone.

More: 8 Hiking Safety Tips

Stay Up Late, Wake Up Early

If you've ever been told, "You have to see a desert sunrise," then you've come to the right place. Just over the mountaintops is an orange glow that permeates the dark desert landscape. Leave your rain fly off and watch if from the comfort of your own bed.

Plan to go back to sleep once you've seen the sunrise because one of the best star gazing skies in the entire world will keep you up late counting constellations. Dark, wide expanses of sky allow campers to see milky galaxies, shooting stars and passing satellites.

Come to Anza-Borrego for a desert camping trip to remember, whether you come during wildflower season or on a whim with your family. Spend your days on the trail and evenings around the fire, wishing on shooting stars as they blaze through the night sky.

More: Startgazing: Where and How to View the Night Sky

RAFind a Campground at ReserveAmerica.com.