Solo Motorcycle Camping in Anza-Borrego and Sandstone Canyon
Sometimes you just need to throw your gear on the bike and chase the horizon. No plan, no rush—just a quick escape into the desert. I took the long way out, camped under the stars, and rode through a canyon that absolutely blew my mind.
👇 Hit play for sandy washes, twisty roads, and one happy rider in Anza-Borrego.
After a long week of life doing what life does—being busy, loud, and full of to-dos—I decided to hit pause. I loaded up my Yamaha Tenere 700, tossed in just enough gear for one night, and pointed the bike east. The plan? Head toward Sandstone Canyon—beyond that, nothing was set. Just a solo overnight motorcycle camping trip into the Anza-Borrego Desert.
From the moment I rolled onto the freeway, with music in my ears and a full tank of gas, it already felt like the right call. I could’ve taken the fast route straight into the desert, but I wasn’t in a hurry. Instead, I chose the long way—twisty roads, high elevation, and more time to let the world fade out. The ride wound its way up into the mountains near Mount Laguna, where I caught my first glimpse of the desert stretching out far below. That’s when the itch to drop in really kicked in.
Once I hit the dirt, everything changed. The road gave way to desert wash, and the familiar hum of pavement was replaced by the soft crunch of sand and gravel. Riding through a nearby desert wash, I caught sight of a military helicopter flying low—I waved, they waved back. It never gets old.
Eventually, I found myself at the top of Diablo Drop-Off. It’s not the most technical trail in the world, but it’ll still get your heart going if you're not used to loose, chunky, sandy descents. I dropped in, rode it out, and before long I was in Fish Creek Wash chasing golden light and looking for a campsite. As usual, the desert delivered—sunset, silence, and a spot all to myself.
The next morning, after a few moments of groggy reflection and coffee, I packed up and pushed deeper into the wash. My goal: Sandstone Canyon. I’d never been, but I’d seen photos and figured it was time to see it for myself. And let me tell you—my lizard brain was on fire. Massive canyon walls, curves that seemed carved just for riding, and a sense of wonder that reminded me exactly why I do trips like this.
Exploring a new place solo on two wheels has a way of resetting your internal compass. There’s no cell signal, no traffic, no real schedule—just the sound of your engine, the crunch of your tires, and the occasional gust of desert wind. It’s simple, it’s quiet, and it’s addictive.
After wrapping up my exploration of Sandstone, I headed back out the wash and up into the mountains—twisties, wind, and the creeping sense that the trip was almost over. But that’s the thing about short adventures: they leave you wanting more.
Thanks for following along. If you’re into motorcycle camping, desert riding, or just need some inspiration to get outside, I hope this trip stirs something in you.
Have you ever done a quick overnight ride or explored somewhere new solo? Drop a comment and let me know—I’d love to hear your favorite spots or what’s on your bucket list.
Until next time—keep seeking the extraordinary in the world around you.
~Andrew