The first record of a European in Borrego Valley was when Lieutenant Pedro Fages of the San Diego Presidio came in search of deserters in 1772. His pursuit led him northwest through the present town of Borrego Springs and up Coyote Canyon.
This event was related by Kumeyaay Indians to members of the first Anza expedition, who camped at their village in March, 1774. The Spaniards called this village (and spring) just east of the Borrego Sink, San Gregorio. It is the location of the original Borrego Spring.
Juan Bautiste De Anza was seeking an overland route from Sonorra Mexico to Monterrey California. Proceeding west from San Gregorio, he and his party of 25 followed Coyote Creek and ascended Coyote Canyon. They camped the following night at the Cahuilla village of Lower Willows, now known as Santa Caterina.
It was another hundred years before cattlemen began homesteading the Borrego Valley in about 1875. The first successful well was dug in 1926, which quickly led to irrigation farming. By then, the town contained a post office, a small general store, and a gas station.
The military presence of both the Army and Navy during World War II brought the first paved roads and electricity to Borrego Springs. After the war, developers subdivided the area attempting to create a resort community by capitalizing on the tourism generated by the state park.
The town Borrego Springs was never incorporated and, therefore, has no mayor or other form of municipal government.
The Borrego Springs census-designated place had a population of 2,535 at the 2000 census. Because of frequent summer daytime temperatures over 100°F, many residents are seasonal.
Mild sunny days are perfect for exploring the magnificent Anza-Borrego Desert , or golfing, horseback riding and cycling. And we welcome winter storms, with dazzling rainbows and moisture to nurture spring wildflowers. Bronze sunrises are full of promise, and evenings are silent and chilly, perfect for sweaters, sitting by the fire, or enjoying sparkling skies. Our snowbirds (human and feathered) are back, and activity hums. A winter paradise!
Learn more about this city.
City of Borrego Springs, CA official site
City of Borrego Springs, CA Chamber of Commerce
City of Borrego Springs, CA newspaper
County of Borrego Springs, CA official site
State of California official site