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 4, 2024

Crisis Management by the Borrego Ministers Association

How Swift Action and Community Support Made a Difference

In a recent newsletter, the Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) highlighted their coordinated efforts to support a local family in Borrego Springs who faced a devastating loss in December 2022. Just before Christmas, a fire tragically destroyed the family’s home, leaving them without a place to live. Thankfully, the family members were unharmed, but the emotional impact was significant.

Quick Community Mobilization

As soon as the news broke, the BMA, in collaboration with local partners, sprang into action. They worked swiftly to ensure the family had immediate support. Extended family members provided temporary shelter, while the BMA took the lead in organizing the collection and storage of donations from the community. These efforts were crucial in helping the family stay afloat while they searched for a new home.

Addressing Immediate Needs

One of the significant challenges the family faced was the need to continue paying rent on their property until the debris from the fire was cleared. Understanding the urgency of the situation, the BMA mobilized volunteers to handle the cleanup. They coordinated the delivery of dumpsters and organized teams to help remove the debris, which allowed the family to focus on rebuilding their lives without the additional financial burden.

BMA's Role in Crisis Management

The BMA has once again demonstrated its vital role in crisis management within the Borrego Springs community. Their extensive network allows them to respond swiftly and effectively when emergencies arise, providing essential support to those in need.

How You Can Support

The BMA's ability to act quickly in times of crisis is made possible by the ongoing support of the community. Donations are critical to ensuring that they can continue to offer this vital assistance when it's needed most.

To support the BMA in their crisis response efforts, please consider making a donation here.

Also, stay informed about their latest activities by subscribing to their YouTube channel.

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.

George & Rosa Featured in St. Barnabas “Who Is My Neighbor?” Series

By St Barnabas Communications • August 27, 2026

Borrego Springs-made short film screens Oct. 11 St. Barnabas Episcopal Church will present the award-winning short film George & Rosa on Sunday, Oct. 11, from 1–2 p.m. as part of its “Who Is My Neighbor?” film and discussion series. Written, produced and directed by Borrego Springs resident Matt Bosson, the 24-minute drama follows George and Rosa, two people living on the margins who form an unexpected bond despite speaking different languages. The story explores loneliness, companionship and human dignity. George & Rosa was produced entirely in Borrego Springs, with local talent involved in the production and the Anza-Borrego desert serving as its backdrop. The film won Best Medium Short in the Reale Film Festival’s June 2026 Monthly Awards. Bosson worked for many years in television video playback on productions including 24, House MD and Grey’s Anatomy before relocating to Borrego Springs, where he teaches English and continues his filmmaking and music work. His previous short BAD was also filmed and premiered in Borrego Springs. The screening will be held at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 2680 Country Club Road, followed by a community discussion as part of the ongoing “Who Is My Neighbor?” series.

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

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.

Borrego Ministers Association Continues Air Conditioning Assistance Program for Local Residents

By Borrego Ministers Association • August 4, 2026

Providing temporary cooling units while residents repair their air conditioning systems or explore HVAC financing options.

In Memory of Kay Levie

By Andrea McKenna • July 30, 2026

Longtime Borrego Springs resident remembered for her photography, artistic leadership, and community service.

Extreme Heat Continues in Borrego Springs

By Andrea McKenna • July 28, 2026

Extreme Heat Expected as Highs Near 121°F This Weekend Triple-digit temperatures are expected to continue through the week, with highs climbing from 111°F Tuesday and Wednesday to 114°F Thursday , 119°F Friday , and 121°F Saturday , according to the National Weather Service . Need a Place to Cool Off? The Borrego Springs Library is serving as a Cool Zone , offering an air-conditioned place to escape the heat. The library has also scheduled free Saturday matinee movies during August from 2–4 p.m. , providing another opportunity to stay cool while enjoying a film. Help Is Available for AC Problems The Borrego Ministers Association is continuing to work closely with licensed HVAC professionals to help residents experiencing emergency air conditioning failures. The program provides temporary portable AC units while evaluating longer-term solutions for qualifying households. With temperatures expected to remain above 110 degrees for several days, residents are encouraged to: Stay hydrated. Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. Check on neighbors and older adults. Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles.

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.