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.

Andrea McKenna • June 14, 2026

Escape the Heat at Santa Ysabel Art Gallery

Art, History, and Scenic Views Just 38 Miles Away

With temperatures forecast to reach 107°F in Borrego Springs this week, summer is the perfect time to head for the mountains. Just about 38 miles from Borrego Springs, Santa Ysabel Art Gallery offers a refreshing change of scenery with cooler temperatures, beautiful views, and inspiring artwork.

Nestled in the picturesque Santa Ysabel Valley, the gallery is surrounded by mountain vistas, open pastureland, large trees, flower gardens, and peaceful outdoor spaces. The gallery itself is housed in the historic Hellyer House, built in 1930, making a visit enjoyable both inside and out.

This summer's featured exhibition, Art of the River, is on display through July 6, 2026. Presented by the San Diego River Artists Alliance, the exhibit brings together artists inspired by California's rivers, landscapes, and natural ecosystems. Through paintings and mixed-media works, visitors can explore the beauty of the natural world while learning about the importance of conservation.

The exhibition features work by:

Katheryn Gail Ackley
Maureen Blackhall
Joan Boyer
Sue Britt
Gloria Chadwick
Cathy Coverley
Vicky De Long
Kenda Francis
Deb Gargula
Robert Green
Jodie Hulden
Kathy McGaffigan
Susan Osborn
Trudy Pachon
Natasha Papousek
Louise Russell
Janet Wytrych

A portion of exhibition sales supports the San Diego River Park Foundation and its ongoing environmental programs.

Visit The James Hubbell Room

One of the gallery's highlights is the James Hubbell Room, featuring works by internationally recognized artist, poet, visionary, and builder James Hubbell. Known for his organic architecture and artistic vision, Hubbell's work has inspired people around the world and remains an important part of the gallery experience.

Whether you're looking for a day trip, a break from the desert heat, or a chance to enjoy art in a beautiful setting, Santa Ysabel Art Gallery offers a rewarding summer destination just a short drive from Borrego Springs.

Santa Ysabel Art Gallery
30352 Highway 78
Santa Ysabel, CA 92070

Exhibition: Art of the River
On Display Through: July 6, 2026

A mountain drive, cooler air, historic charm, and art inspired by California's natural beauty make this an easy summer getaway from Borrego Springs.

Make sure to stop by Ted Berryman’s Garage Gallery

Learn More About Borrego Springs

Borrego Springs and the Famous San Diego Chicken!

By Gabriel Wisdom, Ram Media Foundation • September 12, 2026

Borrego’s Bill Lawrence joined a sold-out San Diego History Center event celebrating Ted Giannoulas, The Famous San Diego Chicken, and the mascot’s remarkable 50-year legacy.

Christian Center to Host Harvest Festival Oct. 31

By Andrea McKenna • September 12, 2026

Family event will feature games, a puppet show, hayride, food, go-kart races and an evening Youth Zone The Christian Center will host its annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 4 to 6 p.m., offering an afternoon of family-friendly activities for children and families in Borrego Springs. The festival will feature Bible-based games, a Gospel Castle, puppet show, hayride and go-kart races, along with free candy. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase, including hot dogs, chili dogs, nachos, Gatorade, soda and water. After the main festival activities conclude, the Christian Center’s Youth Zone will remain open from 6 to 8 p.m. for students in grades 6 through 12, with additional activities including go-kart races. The Christian Center is located at 675 Weather Vane Drive, Borrego Springs. For additional information, call 760-767-7447. Event Details: Saturday, Oct. 31, 4–6 p.m.; Youth Zone for grades 6–12 from 6–8 p.m.; Christian Center, 675 Weather Vane Drive, Borrego Springs. >> LEARN MORE

Borrego Village Campus: Up to 60 Affordable Homes Proposed on Donated Land

By Andrea McKenna • September 11, 2026

Wellsprings Community Foundation would put housing for seniors and workers, a fire station, and a clinic on 22 donated acres in the center of town

Bargain Barn storefront sign on a white building with star decorations against a dark blue sky.

The Borrego Springs Bargain Barn: Season Update

By American Legion Post 853 Communications • September 10, 2026

Borrego Springs Thrifting for a Cause: Support Veterans at Bargain Barn.

Borrego Springs Sees Lowest Groundwater Pumping Since 2021

By Andrea McKenna • September 10, 2026

Borrego Springs sees its lowest groundwater pumping since 2021, highlighting conservation efforts. Stay updated on local water management.

Rotary Sets Feb. 6 for Annual Fundraiser: A Roaring Twenties Speakeasy

By Andrea McKenna • September 10, 2026

Borrego Springs Rotary will bring the Roaring Twenties to La Casa del Zorro for its annual community fundraiser on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2027. Each February, the greater Rotary family gathers for one of its most important fundraisers of the year, raising funds to support programs and projects that benefit the Borrego Springs community. Last year’s Mardi Gras celebration drew 110 supporters for an evening of food, fun, raffles and auctions. Their generosity helped Rotary fund 30 student scholarships, send local students to leadership development programs, provide a Christmas toy for every child in Borrego Springs, and award 18 community grants. This season, Rotary is trading Mardi Gras for the glamour of the Roaring Twenties. The 2027 Rotary Annual Fundraiser Dinner will be held Saturday, Feb. 6, at La Casa del Zorro, with a Roaring Twenties Speakeasy theme, complete with Prohibition-era cocktails and period-inspired cuisine. Guests are encouraged to “throw on your glad rags” and join Rotary for what organizers promise will be a festive evening — all in support of programs that directly benefit the community. Save the date: Saturday, Feb. 6, 2027. Additional details, including ticket information, will be announced as the event approaches.