How big is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park?

More than 600,000 acres, or roughly 1,000 square miles. It is the largest state park in California and the third largest in the United States, spanning parts of San Diego, Riverside and Imperial counties.

How much does it cost to enter Anza-Borrego?

Day use is $10 per vehicle, collected at the Visitor Center, developed campgrounds and several popular trailheads including The Slot and Hellhole Canyon. The park has no entrance gates and much of it can be accessed without a fee.

When is wildflower season at Anza-Borrego?

Annual wildflowers can appear from January through mid-April, with peak bloom most often between late February and early April. Timing varies year to year based on rainfall and temperature.

Is Anza-Borrego a Dark Sky Park?

Yes. The park was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2018 at Silver tier. Borrego Springs, the town at its center, has been an International Dark Sky Community since 2009, the first in California.

Do I need four-wheel drive at Anza-Borrego?

Not for the paved roads, the Visitor Center or the main campgrounds. The vast majority of the park's roughly 500 miles of dirt roads do require a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park open at night?

Yes, the park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. The Visitor Center is open daily 9am to 5pm October through May, and weekends and holidays only June through September.

Andrea McKenna • July 15, 2026

Free Haircuts for Veterans from Maribel’s Chair

Local barber and cosmetologist Maribel Tellez is donating her time to honor those who have served.

As a way to give back to the community that has supported her, Maribel Tellez of Maribel's Chair will be offering free haircuts for veterans on Sunday, July 26, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at American Legion Post 853, 4515 Borrego Springs Rd., Borrego Springs, CA 92004.

"I've been fortunate to receive so much encouragement from this community as I've built my business," said Maribel. "Offering free haircuts is my way of saying thank you to our veterans for their service. I hope you'll stop by and let me give back in a small way."

Haircuts are free for all veterans. While there is no charge, donations are welcome and will help support future community outreach efforts.

Maribel is a licensed barber and cosmetologist and recently opened Maribel's Chair inside Alicia's Desert Spa. A recipient of the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award, she has built her business while balancing family, work, and a commitment to serving the Borrego Springs community. She is also an active member of OLAX – Organización Latinos, volunteering her time to support local events and families.

The event is made possible through the partnership of American Legion Post 853, which continues to expand its community outreach by hosting programs and services that support both local veterans and Borrego Springs businesses.

Event Details

Free Haircuts for Veterans
Sunday, July 26
12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

American Legion Post 853
590 Palm Canyon Drive
Borrego Springs, CA

Cost: Free for veterans. Donations are appreciated but never required.

Maribel looks forward to welcoming local veterans for an afternoon of appreciation, conversation, and community.

Learn More About Borrego Springs

George & Rosa Featured in St. Barnabas “Who Is My Neighbor?” Series

By St Barnabas Communications • August 27, 2026

Borrego Springs-made short film screens Oct. 11 St. Barnabas Episcopal Church will present the award-winning short film George & Rosa on Sunday, Oct. 11, from 1–2 p.m. as part of its “Who Is My Neighbor?” film and discussion series. Written, produced and directed by Borrego Springs resident Matt Bosson, the 24-minute drama follows George and Rosa, two people living on the margins who form an unexpected bond despite speaking different languages. The story explores loneliness, companionship and human dignity. George & Rosa was produced entirely in Borrego Springs, with local talent involved in the production and the Anza-Borrego desert serving as its backdrop. The film won Best Medium Short in the Reale Film Festival’s June 2026 Monthly Awards. Bosson worked for many years in television video playback on productions including 24, House MD and Grey’s Anatomy before relocating to Borrego Springs, where he teaches English and continues his filmmaking and music work. His previous short BAD was also filmed and premiered in Borrego Springs. The screening will be held at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 2680 Country Club Road, followed by a community discussion as part of the ongoing “Who Is My Neighbor?” series.

Imagining Children’s Visions | Santa Ysabel Gallery

By Sally Walsh • August 15, 2026

Celebrating Young Artists and the Future of Creative Education

Rams Hill to Host Employment Fair on September 11

By Andrea McKenna • August 10, 2026

Friday, September 11

Borrego Ministers Association Continues Air Conditioning Assistance Program for Local Residents

By Borrego Ministers Association • August 4, 2026

Providing temporary cooling units while residents repair their air conditioning systems or explore HVAC financing options.

In Memory of Kay Levie

By Andrea McKenna • July 30, 2026

Longtime Borrego Springs resident remembered for her photography, artistic leadership, and community service.

Extreme Heat Continues in Borrego Springs

By Andrea McKenna • July 28, 2026

Extreme Heat Expected as Highs Near 121°F This Weekend Triple-digit temperatures are expected to continue through the week, with highs climbing from 111°F Tuesday and Wednesday to 114°F Thursday , 119°F Friday , and 121°F Saturday , according to the National Weather Service . Need a Place to Cool Off? The Borrego Springs Library is serving as a Cool Zone , offering an air-conditioned place to escape the heat. The library has also scheduled free Saturday matinee movies during August from 2–4 p.m. , providing another opportunity to stay cool while enjoying a film. Help Is Available for AC Problems The Borrego Ministers Association is continuing to work closely with licensed HVAC professionals to help residents experiencing emergency air conditioning failures. The program provides temporary portable AC units while evaluating longer-term solutions for qualifying households. With temperatures expected to remain above 110 degrees for several days, residents are encouraged to: Stay hydrated. Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. Check on neighbors and older adults. Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles.

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