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 • August 17, 2026

August Beading Classes

Creative classes for adults and families continue throughout August.

Creative beading classes continue this August at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center, with sessions for both adults and families.

An adults-only class will be held on Saturday, August 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Family-friendly all-ages classes are scheduled for August 8, 22, and 29.

Participants will create projects such as beaded plants, sun catchers, and other handmade designs. All supplies and instruction are provided.

A suggested donation of $10 per class helps purchase beads, supplies, and other class materials. Participation is open to everyone, regardless of their ability to donate.

Classes are held at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center, located at 587 Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 125.

For more information, contact Diana at 240-674-6160.

Learn More About Borrego Springs

Start Your Story | FREE Community Writing Workshop

By BSPAC • September 19, 2026

Turn Your Life Experiences Into a Story Worth Sharing

Circle of Art 2027

By Borrego Soroptimist • September 18, 2026

March 13-14

$1.6 billion, 150-mile power line gets strong pushback from residents

By By John Carroll / General Assignment Reporter & Anchor • September 18, 2026

People wearing yellow shirts, who are opposed to the proposed Golden Pacific Powerlink, are shown at San Marcos City Hall on Sept. 17, 2026 . Photo by: Carolyne Corelis /KPBS

New True Crime Book Explores Murders With Anza Desert Connection

By Andrea McKenna • September 17, 2026

Los Angeles in the 1950s drew young women with promises of work, independence, and a chance at something bigger. Harvey Glatman saw an opportunity of another kind.

Annual Trunk-or-Treat Returns to The Mall in Borrego Springs

By Andrea McKenna • September 17, 2026

Family event will feature games, a puppet show, hayride, food, go-kart races and an evening Youth Zone The Christian Center will host its annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 4 to 6 p.m., offering an afternoon of family-friendly activities for children and families in Borrego Springs. The festival will feature Bible-based games, a Gospel Castle, puppet show, hayride and go-kart races, along with free candy. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase, including hot dogs, chili dogs, nachos, Gatorade, soda and water. After the main festival activities conclude, the Christian Center’s Youth Zone will remain open from 6 to 8 p.m. for students in grades 6 through 12, with additional activities including go-kart races. The Christian Center is located at 675 Weather Vane Drive, Borrego Springs. For additional information, call 760-767-7447. Event Details: Saturday, Oct. 31, 4–6 p.m.; Youth Zone for grades 6–12 from 6–8 p.m.; Christian Center, 675 Weather Vane Drive, Borrego Springs. >> LEARN MORE