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.

Jake Hinton • October 15, 2025

The Borrego Springs Bargain Barn: Season Update

(closed in summer)

Supporting Borrego Springs Through Community Giving

Visit the Bargain Barn:

Location: 787 Ave Sureste, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Contact: 760-767-1081
Closed in summer - Opens in October

The Borrego Springs Bargain Barn stands as a beacon for thrift lovers and community supporters. Located near Christmas Circle at 787 Ave Sureste, this thrift store is no ordinary shop; it's a key player in backing the American Legion Post 853, funding various community and veteran initiatives.

More Than Just Thrifting

Every Purchase Fuels Community Support

The Bargain Barn is pivotal in the American Legion Post 853's community efforts. The post's recent expansion, including a new dining room, highlights its commitment to bringing people together for a cause. Regular events like pancake breakfast fundraisers exemplify how the Legion and the Bargain Barn unite the community for local causes, such as supporting school programs.

The Force Behind the Finds

A Community-Driven Thrift Store

Managed locally and powered by volunteers, the Bargain Barn offers an eclectic mix of items, from household goods, exercise equipment, furniture to vintage wear and more. Open Friday and Saturday, except during summer, this cash-only thrift store is fueled by the community for the community, proving that every little bit helps.

Hidden amongst the treasures, you might just unearth a hidden gem – a vintage find or a unique piece at a fraction of the cost. With so many unpicked items, it's a treasure hunter's paradise!

A Thrift Store with Impact

Shop with a Cause at Heart

The Bargain Barn isn't just about the thrill of the find; it's about making a difference. By supporting the Bargain Barn, shoppers contribute to the American Legion Post 853 and its myriad of community and veteran support activities.

Dive into the community spirit of Borrego Springs with a visit to the Bargain Barn, where every purchase is a step towards supporting a vibrant community and its heroes.

Learn More About Borrego Springs

Frugal Coyote Thrift Store Is Open for the Season

By Andrea McKenna • September 1, 2026

As a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization, the store's proceeds benefit the Borrego Springs Children's Center, making every purchase impactful and meaningful.

BSPAC Announces 2026–27 Performing Arts Season

By Andrea McKenna • August 31, 2026

A full season of music, theater, film and community favorites.

UCI Nature Hiring Chief Administrative Officer

By Andrea McKenna • August 14, 2026

UCI Nature Chief Administrative Officer Job Posting

BASIC Seeks Managing Director to Lead Programs, Fundraising and Community Partnerships

By BASIC • August 12, 2026

BASIC (Basic Assistance for Students in the Community) is hiring a Managing Director to lead programs, fundraising, operations, and community partnerships that support education for students and families in Borrego Springs. This is a visible, hands-on leadership role for someone who can build trust, get things done, and champion BASIC's C2G cradle to graduation mission. Key Responsibilities Partner with the Board to set priorities and support strong governance. Manage general daily operations, including use of technology, tracking data and written information, running meetings and supervision of a small staff. Guide BASIC programs, including the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Learning Academy, and Scholarships. Manage fundraising and communications (external and internal). Build strong partnerships and serve as a trusted community ambassador. Ideal Candidate Bilingual in Spanish and English Proactive, organized, and comfortable in our small community. Strong communicator (written and verbal) and relationship-builder. Leadership experience in nonprofits, fundraising, programs, administration, education or community service. How to Apply Send your resume to basic2026job@borregobasic.org by September 15, 2026 Learn more about BASIC: www.borregobasic.org