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 • June 19, 2024

Borrego Springs with Kids: Things To Do

Top Things to Do in Borrego Springs with Kids

Nestled in the heart of the Anza-Borrego Desert, Borrego Springs is a hidden treasure for family getaways. With its captivating landscapes, educational opportunities, and engaging activities, this desert town offers plenty of adventures for families with children. Here's a guide to the top things to do in Borrego Springs with kids, making your visit both fun and memorable.

1. Visit Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center

Begin your desert adventure at the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center. This educational hub offers interactive exhibits that teach children about the desert's unique environment, flora, and fauna. Nearby, you'll find short, kid-friendly hiking trails where the whole family can enjoy the beauty of the desert while learning about its delicate ecosystem.

2. Explore Galleta Meadows

Galleta Meadows is an essential stop for families visiting Borrego Springs. This sprawling outdoor art gallery features over 130 life-sized metal sculptures scattered across the desert landscape. Kids will be thrilled to spot dinosaurs, elephants, and other fantastical creatures as they roam the area. The experience is entirely self-guided, and the site is pet-friendly, allowing your family to explore at your own pace without needing an off-road vehicle.

3. Explore Palm Canyon Trail

The Palm Canyon Trail is one of Borrego Springs' most popular hikes, especially for families. This relatively easy 3-mile round-trip trail leads to a hidden palm oasis, offering a rewarding adventure for kids. Along the way, you’ll encounter desert wildlife and stunning scenery, making the hike both educational and exciting. Discovering the lush oasis in the middle of the desert will be a memorable highlight of your trip.

4. Borrego Art Institute and ArtPark Garden

The Borrego Art Institute, centrally located in Borrego Springs, is a cultural gem that the whole family can enjoy. The institute features rotating exhibitions showcasing the work of local and regional artists, providing an inspiring indoor experience. Just outside, the ArtPark Garden offers a serene blend of gardens, an orchard, and desert landscapes. The garden is not just for viewing—it's a place of learning and community engagement. Participate in gardening classes, volunteer in the garden, or get involved in sustainable practices through the compost program. The ArtPark Garden is a must-visit for anyone looking to support and engage with the local community in a beautiful, eco-friendly setting.

5. Experience the Walk of the Cosmos

The Walk of the Cosmos is a fascinating journey through our solar system that begins right at the front entrance of the Borrego Springs Library. Start your walk here, follow the path inside the library, and then exit through the back to continue your exploration. This educational trail features markers representing each planet, offering a unique perspective on the vastness of space. It’s a perfect way for kids to learn about the solar system while enjoying the beautiful desert surroundings.

6. Relax at Borrego Springs Library

After completing the Walk of the Cosmos, cool off inside the Borrego Springs Library. This Gold LEED-certified building is a hub of education and relaxation. The library offers a diverse collection of books, storytime sessions, and arts and crafts activities that kids will love. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy a quiet moment after a day of exploration.

7. Play at Borrego Springs County Park

Just steps from the library, Borrego Springs County Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for families. The park features a spacious playground where kids can burn off some energy, as well as tennis and basketball courts for a bit of friendly competition. In the evening, the park’s amphitheater becomes a prime spot for stargazing, thanks to Borrego Springs' designation as a Dark Sky Community. It’s the perfect way to end a day of adventure under the clear desert sky.

8. Visit the Fudge Shop

Treat your family to something sweet at the Fudge Shop, a beloved spot in Borrego Springs. The shop offers a delightful variety of old-fashioned candy and fresh fudge in many flavors, making it the perfect stop for a delicious reward after a day of exploring. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, providing a nostalgic and tasty experience that complements your family’s desert adventures.

9. Visit ABDNHA Desert Garden and Nature Center

The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) Desert Garden and Nature Center is an excellent spot for families who love to learn and explore. The garden features a variety of desert plants and educational panels that provide insights into the local flora and fauna. After exploring the garden, visit the Nature Center to shop for educational books, nature-themed gifts, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up something unique while learning more about the desert ecosystem.

10. Discover Fonts Point

Fonts Point, often called the "Grand Canyon of California," is an essential stop for families seeking breathtaking desert views. The overlook offers a stunning panoramic view of the Borrego Badlands, a dramatic landscape that will captivate both kids and adults. To fully experience its beauty, consider planning your visit for sunrise or sunset when the desert’s colors shift in a truly magical display. Before heading out, remember that access to Fonts Point requires at least an AWD vehicle, and it’s always wise to check with the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park for current road conditions and recommendations. For those who prefer a guided experience, tours are available, so plan ahead to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

11. Hike Ghost Mountain

Hiking Adventure: Embark on a short hike up Ghost Mountain to explore the former homestead of Marshal South and take in scenic desert views.

12. Experience Borrego Springs as an International Dark Sky Community

Stargazing: Visit Borrego Springs during a new moon to experience some of the clearest night skies for stargazing.

Wrapping Up Your Borrego Springs Adventure

Borrego Springs is a desert oasis for families, offering a mix of stunning landscapes, educational activities, and fun adventures. Whether you're exploring Galleta Meadows, hiking to Fonts Point, or walking through the solar system at the library, there’s something for everyone. With a variety of family-friendly accommodations, Borrego Springs is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

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Anza-Borrego Foundation Trustee Lisa Biasillo Named Marine Science Institute Executive Director

By Marine Science Institute • July 20, 2026

Marine Science Institute has named Lisa Biasillo its new Executive Director, succeeding longtime leader Marilou Seiff.

Perseids Under Borrego’s Dark Skies: The Perfect Summer Getaway

By Andrea McKenna • July 13, 2026

Chase the Perseids in Borrego Springs: Summer’s Best Getaway Is Under the Stars If you've been waiting for a reason to visit Borrego Springs, t he Perseid meteor shower is a pretty great excuse. If you live nearby, consider this your reminder to book a staycation, get out of the house, and look up. Summer is one of the best values of the year. You'll find lower hotel rates, fewer crowds, and a slower pace , making it the perfect time to experience one of nature's most spectacular events. The Perseid meteor shower is active from July 17 through August 24 and is expected to peak the nights of August 12–13 . With little moonlight during the peak and Borrego Springs' internationally recognized dark skies, conditions are ideal for viewing. Under clear skies, you may see 50 to 100 meteors per hour , including brilliant fireballs that leave glowing trails across the sky. Borrego Springs is California's first International Dark Sky Community , making it one of the best places in Southern California to experience the Perseids. No telescope is needed. Just bring a chair or blanket, find a safe location away from lights, let your eyes adjust for about 30 minutes, and enjoy the show. The best viewing is generally after midnight through the hours before dawn, although meteors can appear throughout the night. During the day, take advantage of summer savings with a stay at La Casa del Zorro , a Stay & Play package at Rams Hill , or seasonal rates at The Palms at Indian Head . Sleep in, relax by the pool, enjoy lunch or dinner in one of Borrego's air-conditioned restaurants, and check BorregoEvents.com for local happenings. Browse the locally owned shops that remain open year-round, visit art galleries, enjoy some night photography, or take a stroll down Palm Canyon Drive and browse homes for sale in the windows of Coldwell Banker and other local real estate offices. Summer offers a quieter, more relaxed way to experience Borrego Springs. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or just escaping for a night, there's no better time to discover why Borrego Springs is known for its dark skies, hospitality, and desert beauty. Come for the summer savings. Stay for the Perseids. Leave with memories—and maybe a few shooting stars.

Did You Know? Marlon Brando Filmed a Commercial in Anza-Borrego

By Andrea McKenna • July 1, 2026

A Hollywood fun fact courtesy of longtime Park Ranger Fred Jee.

Stargazing Season Has Arrived in Borrego Springs

By Andrea McKenna • July 1, 2026

Don't Miss These Summer Night Sky Events

Adventure Filmmaker Jeven Dovey Explores Historic Goat Canyon Trestle

By Explore With Jeven Dovey • June 17, 2026

Exploring Goat Canyon Trestle Before It's Gone Adventure filmmaker Jeven Dovey documents one of Southern California's most remote railroad landmarks

Local Businesses Help Protect Borrego Springs' Dark Skies

By Andrea McKenna • June 16, 2026

One of the things that makes Borrego Springs special happens after the sun goes down. Borrego Springs became California's first International Dark Sky Community in 2009 and was only the second community in the world to receive the designation. The certification recognizes communities that actively work to reduce light pollution and protect the night sky for future generations. Earlier this year, a Dark Sky presentation highlighted K-RAM 90.5, XL Fuel Stop, and Borrego Holiday Homes as examples of businesses using responsible lighting practices that help preserve Borrego Springs' internationally recognized night skies. Ram Media Foundation Updates Exterior Lighting The Ram Media Foundation building at 730 Christmas Circle, now home to K-RAM 90.5, the Borrego Sun, and Borrego Valley Realty, removed older unshielded, high-lumen fixtures that reflected light outward around the property. The updated lighting includes shielded fixtures and a downward-facing reflector along the front walkway. These improvements provide lighting where it is needed while reducing unnecessary glare and light escaping into the night sky. XL Fuel Stop Reduces Sky Glow XL Fuel Stop was highlighted for using fully shielded lighting that directs light where it is needed instead of into the night sky. According to the presentation, a bright light mounted atop a high pole was turned off, and after-hours lighting levels were reduced. These changes help minimize sky glow while maintaining safety and visibility for customers. Borrego Holiday Homes Improves Efficiency Borrego Holiday Homes was highlighted as another example of responsible lighting practices. The property reduced excessive brightness by lowering lumen levels and using shielding that directs light downward. The result is reduced glare, improved efficiency, and lighting that better serves guests without unnecessarily illuminating the surrounding area. Why Dark Skies Matter According to the Borrego Springs Dark Sky Coalition, light pollution is the human-made alteration of outdoor light levels from those occurring naturally. Excessive brightness can create visual discomfort, affect wildlife behavior, disrupt human circadian rhythms, and diminish our ability to see the stars. Responsible lighting does not mean eliminating outdoor lighting. Instead, it means using the right amount of light, directing it where it is needed, and avoiding unnecessary brightness. The Borrego Springs Dark Sky Coalition was formed in 2007 by local residents seeking Dark Sky certification. Facilitated by the Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA), the coalition continues to educate residents, businesses, and visitors about responsible lighting practices that help preserve Borrego Springs' exceptional nighttime environment. The improvements made by K-RAM 90.5 , XL Fuel Stop, and Borrego Holiday Homes demonstrate that protecting dark skies can go hand in hand with safety, efficiency, and good business practices. For residents and visitors alike, these efforts help ensure that Borrego Springs remains one of the best places in Southern California to experience a sky filled with stars.

From a Baseball Field to Camp Borrego: A Story from the Anza-Borrego Foundation Blog

By Andrea McKenna • June 3, 2026

ABF’s latest blog explores the surprising chain of events that led to the creation of Camp Borrego.

Hawk Alert Borrego Swainson’s hawks roost in Borrego Springs

March 18, 2026

A recent Hawk Alert shared through the Borrego hawkwatch community reports a significant number of Swainson’s hawks currently roosting in Borrego Springs. Estimates based on multiple counts suggest 200 to 300 hawks are gathered overnight. This is part of the annual spring migration, when large numbers of Swainson’s hawks pass through the Borrego Valley. The migration typically runs from mid-February through March and into April, with peak activity often occurring in mid to late March.