Exploring mud caves, Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Anza Borrego Desert State Park
2+ miles

Mud cave entrance, Anza Borrego

I HAD ALWAYS HEARD of the mud caves out in the Anza Borrego desert, and the fact that they are supposed to be some of the best in the world was enough to finally get me out there. I used the "Afoot & Afield San Diego County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide" book as my rough guide for getting there and keeping my bearings. It turns out that I just used it as sort of a general guide, and then once there explored on my own. This isn't so much of a hiking trip as it is an exploring trip, but depending on the condition of the "roads" and the type of vehicle you have, there can definitely be a fair amount of walking. As a worst case scenario, if you have a sedan or low style car, and want to get a good taste of at least a few caves, be prepared for 2-4 miles of walking. With a car and decent road conditions, you can safely and easily drive to pretty close to the first of the caves.

To get there, take 8 East from San Diego to Imperial County, then get off and go north on S2, which is also called Imperial Highway. (You can also come from the north through the mountains and desert if you wish.) When you get to mile marker 43 on S2, turn off to the east where it says Palm Springs or Vallecito Wash. Follow that about 4.5 miles and you will see a sign that says Arroyo Tapiado. Turn left there (or north-ish), and just follow the wash/road until you get to where it looks like there might be caves. If the directions sound vague, it's because they are. Understand that this is the desert, and the landscape is always evolving, and the conditions are always changing. Make sure to bring water and be smart about your driving and the road conditions. A compass or GPS wouldn't hurt either if you are directionally challenged. Eventually you will reach a point where you can't drive any more, (this will vary depending on your vehicle type) but before that you will probably see at least a few other cars. Supposedly there are specific caves with names, but if you are an amateur just out for a day of exploring, all you need to do is look for where it looks like there is a hole or a groove or a little canyon, and just walk in and explore.

Be sure if you want to go into some of the more interesting caves that you have a flashlight or a headlamp... for each person. Once you are into any of the caves there will be absolutely no light at all, so each person should have a light. Also for the tighter caves be prepared to get dirty and dusty. I would highly recommend that if there is any chance or rain you stay away. Not only will the caves be unsafe, but any flash flooding could leave you and your vehicle stranded. Lastly, be smart, stay safe and have fun!