June 25, 2024

California State Library Parks Pass: Free Access to State Parks

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California State Library Parks Pass Extended Through 2025

The California State Library Parks Pass program will continue through 2025, following a $6.75 million budget allocation. This extension allows Californians to enjoy free vehicle day-use entry to over 200 state parks, including Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The program, a collaboration between the California State Library and State Parks, aims to provide greater access to outdoor spaces for all residents.



What is the California State Library Parks Pass?



The California State Library Parks Pass allows public library cardholders to check out a free vehicle day-use pass from their local public library. This pass is valid for entry of one passenger vehicle with a capacity of nine people or less or one highway-licensed motorcycle.


Who Can Use the Pass?


All California public library cardholders can check out the State Library Parks Pass. If you don’t have a library card, you can get one for free at your local public library.


How to Use the Pass


Each library location, including mobile libraries, will have passes available for checkout. Library patrons can use the pass for the number of days specified by their local library. Check with your library for specific guidelines and policies.


Where to Use the Pass


The pass provides free vehicle day-use entry to over 200 participating state park units. It is not valid at state park units operated by federal or local governments, private agencies, or concessionaires. Additionally, it does not cover per-person entry, tour fees, boat use, camping, group sites, special events, extra vehicle fees, or sanitation disposal use.


For a list of parks accepting the pass, including Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, visit the California State Parks website.


Visit Anza-Borrego Desert State Park


Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, located in Borrego Springs, is a prime destination for nature lovers. With the California State Library Parks Pass, you can enjoy free vehicle entry, making it easier to explore the park’s stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and unique desert flora and fauna.


 

For more information and to find your local public library, visit library.ca.gov/branches




Learn More About Borrego Springs

January 21, 2026
The 13th Borrego Springs Film Festival wrapped January 18, 2026, with sold-out screenings, red carpet moments, awards, and strong community turnout. The 13th Annual Borrego Springs Film Festival wrapped up January 18, 2026, closing five days of independent cinema, conversation, and community energy. Events were held throughout Borrego Springs, including free screenings at the Borrego Springs Library and ticketed block screenings and awards ceremonies at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. Presented by the Borrego Springs Film Institute, the festival continued its traditional, theater-first format that brings people together to watch films in shared spaces and talk about them afterward. Several screening blocks sold out during the week, reflecting strong local interest and visiting attendance. That connection was clear during the live-streamed red carpet. Host Brianna Pinto described one of the festival’s defining qualities by saying, “Filmmakers get to interact directly with the audience,” noting that Borrego Springs draws viewers who truly watch and engage with the films. Filmmakers echoed that experience in different ways. A King’s Curtain director Grannan Johnson said it was especially meaningful to hear audience members tell him, “Oh yes, I saw your film,” calling Borrego Springs “a fun place to be” with “really nice, great people.” Documentary filmmaker Mitch Yapko (Watching Walter) described a moment when a full theater reacted together, saying the shared gasp from the audience made it clear they were fully engaged. The setting itself also left an impression. Actress Laura Bolin (Rage, Rhonda) called the enthusiasm of Borrego Springs audiences “contagious” and encouraged visitors to explore the landscape, describing the area as a place to “just wander” and take in the desert views.
January 18, 2026
Supervisor candidate Rebecca Jones met Borrego Springs residents at a BBQ luncheon at Rams Hill to discuss housing, education, busing, healthcare, and quality of life.
January 18, 2026
The 27th Annual Borrego Springs Golf Classic takes place on Friday, February 20, 2026, at de Anza Desert Country Club. Hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego , this annual event brings golfers, supporters, and community members together for a day of golf and giving in Borrego Springs. All proceeds from the tournament directly benefit the Borrego Springs Branch , supporting programs that help local youth succeed academically, build good character, and develop healthy lifestyles. The event features a scramble-style round of golf , on-course activities, auctions, and a hosted lunch. It’s designed to be both competitive and social, welcoming participants looking to enjoy a meaningful day on the course while supporting youth programs in the Borrego Valley. Sponsorship & Participation A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals interested in supporting the event and the Borrego Springs Branch. Sponsorships provide visibility throughout the tournament and help fund essential youth services. Event Details Date: Friday, February 20, 2026 Location: de Anza Desert Country Club 509 Catarina Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Registration and additional event details are available through the event website.  Learn More About Borrego Springs
January 16, 2026
Circle of Art: March 14–15, 2026
January 16, 2026
An Evening of Fine Dining, Scenic Views, and Live Music Whether shared with a partner or a group of close friends, Rams Hill’s Valentine’s Day dinner offers an elegant night out against the backdrop of the Anza-Borrego Desert. Guests will gather in the Santa Rosa Room for a thoughtfully prepared prix-fixe menu featuring locally inspired dishes—from the Urban Blend Berry Salad to a classic Surf & Turf entrée , and a decadent Mini Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake for dessert. Live music by Brooke Ramel adds to the ambiance, creating a warm, inviting setting for a memorable evening. Seating is limited, and this popular event fills quickly—plan ahead.
January 16, 2026
By Dennis Mammana 
January 16, 2026
Is a Super Bloom Coming to Anza-Borrego Desert? Fox 5 San Diego news recently spoke with Sicco Rood of the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center about the vibrant wildflowers beginning to appear across the region. While the landscape near Henderson Canyon is already bursting with purple desert verbena , desert sunflowers , and white dune primroses , this is technically a fall bloom —not yet the rare and famous Super Bloom . A true Super Bloom spans many more square miles and requires a perfect combination of well-timed rain , cool temperatures , no drought , and minimal wind . If these conditions align, early March could bring a spectacular bloom like the last major one seen in 2019 . For now, visitors can enjoy the peace and beauty of this early bloom, with fewer crowds and great photo ops in areas like Coyote Canyon and the Badlands . But remember, a heat wave or lack of rain could still cut the season short. Now’s a great time to visit—just in case nature doesn’t go full Super Bloom this year!
January 15, 2026
Performance Date: January 27, 2026
January 15, 2026
A Night That Gives Back in Borrego Springs
January 13, 2026
The Methodist Church is hosting a Valentine’s Potluck featuring shared food, games, and prizes. Attendees are invited to bring a favorite dish to share. Date: Sunday, February 15 Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Location: Methodist Church Address: 633 Church Lane Phone: (760) 767-5596 Details: Potluck-style meal Games and prizes Community gathering
January 11, 2026
Music,Food & Community The BYOB (Bring Your Own Bowl & Spoon) concert series at St. Barnabas Church is a relaxed, midday gathering built around live music and community. It’s the place to go to see friends, catch up with neighbors, and enjoy performances in an easy, welcoming setting. Open to everyone, the series runs weekly at noon and features a rotating lineup of local and visiting musicians. Great opportunity to meet your neighbors or plan a friend meet up!
January 10, 2026
This segment aired on KTLA's Off the Clock on Jan. 7, 2026.
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