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 • January 13, 2025

Borrego Soroptimists Donate $5,000 to Support Local Families

Borrego Soroptimists Empower Local Families with $5,000 Donation

Strengthening Community Bonds Through Generosity and Support

The Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) received a heartwarming boost to their community outreach efforts with a generous $5,000 donation from Soroptimist International of Borrego Springs. This substantial contribution from the Soroptimists is specifically earmarked to assist with the emergency needs of local women supporting their families, providing critical aid during challenging times.

The $5,000 donation directly supports women facing unexpected hardships, from covering utility bills to providing grocery vouchers or travel assistance for medical appointments. By empowering local women, this contribution strengthens the entire community.

“This donation underscores our commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of women and girls in Borrego Springs,” said Kathy Dice, Soroptimist President. “We see firsthand how life can change in an instant. This support will go a long way in helping women keep their families safe, secure, and hopeful.”

Soroptimist International of Borrego Springs focuses on helping women and girls achieve their dreams through scholarships, awards, and targeted programming to help them define goals and make educational plans. Their partnership with the BMA ensures that critical resources reach those who need them most.

The BMA works year-round to support neighbors in need, offering programs like grocery coupons for local markets, rent and utility relief, and travel assistance for medical care through the 'Let’s Go Borrego' program. Every dollar donated is carefully allocated to provide timely, meaningful assistance to Borrego Springs residents.

The Borrego Ministers Association is now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN: 92-3678192). Contributions from local businesses and residents ensure that vital support continues to be available for those in need.

To learn more about the BMA or to make a donation, visit borregoministersassociation.com. Every act of kindness helps keep Borrego Springs a compassionate and resilient community.

Empower women and girls in Borrego Springs—donate today to fund education, career opportunities, and a stronger community.

Life in Borrego Springs: A Unique Desert Community

Borrego Springs is a rural desert community nestled in the heart of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. With no nearby cities and limited resources, residents and visitors alike rely on the close-knit spirit of the valley to navigate the unique challenges of desert living. Tourism is a vital part of Borrego’s economy, but it ebbs and flows with the seasons. As temperatures rise, many residents leave, and tourism slows, creating a quieter yet more challenging time for those who remain.

For those who call Borrego home year-round, helping each other is a way of life. The Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) stands as a crucial lifeline for the community. They do not rest, providing support and assistance to residents in need, whether it’s offering emergency relief, grocery vouchers, or travel assistance for medical care. In Borrego Springs, where neighbors help neighbors and every act of kindness makes a difference, organizations like the BMA are essential for the well-being of the entire valley.

The spirit of community runs deep in Borrego Springs, making it a place where generosity and compassion flourish. The Soroptimist International of Borrego Springs embodies that spirit through their support for women and girls, further strengthening the bonds that make Borrego a resilient and hopeful place to live.

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

Under the Borrego Sky: A Local Look at Desert Life

By Andrea McKenna • August 13, 2026

www.youtube.com/@under-the-borrego-sky

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

Frugal Coyote Celebrates Ann’s Retirement

By Andrea McKenna • August 11, 2026

Saturday, September 5

Historic Salton Seafarer Newspaper Archive Now Available Online

By Andrea McKenna • August 5, 2026

Nearly every issue from 1958 to 2008 is now searchable online.

Secure Your 2027 Concert Season Membership

By BSCCA Board • August 2, 2026

2027 Concert Season

Emergency Air Conditioning Assistance Borrego Ministers Association

By Borrego Ministers Association • July 25, 2026

Help Keep Borrego Springs Safe This Summer When the desert heat becomes dangerous, your support can save lives. For the past two summers, the Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) has provided emergency portable air conditioners at no cost to Borrego Springs residents whose home cooling systems unexpectedly fail. Units are delivered, installed, and evaluated by licensed HVAC professionals to provide immediate relief. Right now, 6 portable air conditioners are already deployed in homes across Borrego Springs, helping keep local residents safe during extreme heat. With demand increasing rapidly, we urgently need to expand our inventory. Your gift provides immediate protection: $1,000 provides 2 high-powered portable air conditioners $2,000 provides 4 high-powered portable air conditioners Every donation helps protect vulnerable neighbors from heat-related illness and potentially life-threatening conditions. About the Borrego Ministers Association The Borrego Ministers Association is a coalition of local faith communities working together to serve Borrego Springs through emergency assistance, community outreach, and programs that support residents in times of need. To learn more contact: Andrea McKenna 619-892-0393 Donations may also be made online through the Borrego Ministers Association.