Anza-Borrego Camping Fees
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (ABDSP) published a survey recently asking about camping in the park and tossing out the idea that they may charge a $20 per night fee to camp near one of four vaulted restrooms in the park. I have several problems with this. First, they only allowed the survey to be out for one week. Second, they did not also accept written comments. Third, they propose to charge substantially more than other nearby areas. McCain Valley borders ABDSP and charges $6 per night to camp next to vaulted restrooms with fire rings and tables. ABDSP neighbor Cleveland National Forest charges $7 per 24-hour period for camping and they offer sites with vaulted toilets and fire rings. Why is ABDSP substantially higher? I called the park and said I would like to submit comments on their proposal and was told my comment would be forwarded. It is likely that given COVID’s effect on the State’s finances, the State is asking agencies to find ways to increase revenue. At our last SDORC meeting, we asked State Senator Brian Jones’ staffer, John Mendez, to look into the extremely short survey period. A couple days later we heard that the survey will be available for a longer period of time.

Not every agency hates us. Our lobby coalition sent a letter to Director Charlton H. Bonham, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, thanking him for participating and speaking strongly at the California Coastal Commission meeting on March 18, 2021 to allow continued motorized access to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. I believe he understands that OHV money goes a long way toward helping all the endangered species there.

SDORC joined with San Diego ORV Club to host a desert cleanup by Superstition Mountain on March 20. We filled about half of a 40-yard dumpster. We also picked up about half a 5-gallon bucket with nails and screws. We found a lot of bent easy-up frames. If you use an easy-up for shade, don’t forget to tie it to a sold object, like your vehicle or tool box.

Our next Lost Lizard Fun Run is officially on the calendar for this coming November 13. Look for all the usual fun and games in our biggest fundraiser of the year. Early signup will be on our website soon, watch here for more details.

Our radio show is still going strong on KCBQ AM 1170 and FM 96.1 The Answer. Listen to Audrey Mason, Dave Stall and myself Sundays 12 to 1:00 pm or click here to hear past shows. We could use more sponsors besides PRMI Mortgage and Wayne Miller Tires. It doesn’t cost much to get a lot of exposure and we can custom-tailor advertising to your needs.

Remember, SDORC is a membership organization and you can join us for just $25 per year. Click here to sign up securely online.

Ed Stovin, President
SDORC