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.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway • July 31, 2026

“FIRST RESPONDERS DAYS” AT THE PALM SPRINGS AERIAL TRAMWAY

Complimentary Tram Admission in August for Qualifying First Responders

During the entire month of August, all qualified first responders receive free admission to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway in celebration of “First Responders Days.” In addition, up to four of their guests receive 25% off regular Tram fares.

“The Tramway is delighted to continue this annual tradition, in appreciation for the dedication and service of those who serve our communities,” said Tramway General Manager Nancy Nichols. “We look forward to welcoming our first responders to a day with friends and family, exploring the natural beauty of our alpine wilderness.”

The “First Responders Days” promotion can be redeemed with valid first responder photo ID at the ticket booth of the Tramway’s Valley Station from August 1 – 31, 2026. Qualifying personnel include fire and police personnel, California Highway Patrol, County Sheriff Officers, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), and more.

See below for the full list of qualifying first responders.

Download Qualified Personnel List

Download Press Release

Download Fire Personnel Poster

Download Police Personnel Poster

Learn More About Borrego Springs

Court overturns approval of Imperial County data center

By Kori Suzuki / South Bay and Imperial Valley Reporter • September 15, 2026

Dozens of residents from Fallbrook and surrounding communities attend an open house at the Fallbrook Community Center on Aug. 26, 2026. SDG&E hosted the event for its proposed Golden Pacific Powerlink. Two other open houses are planned in October. Originally published by KPBS.org on August 20, 2026.

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By Andrea McKenna • September 14, 2026

Meet Esmeralda Lopez-Garcia, a lifelong Borrego Springs resident, mother, community leader and OLAX founder whose heart for helping others has shaped generations.

Secure Your 2027 Concert Season Membership

By BSCCA Board • September 13, 2026

2027 Concert Season

Pegleg Pointers: A 1998 Look at the Pegleg Smith Liars Contest | Historic Borrego Sun

By Phil Brigandi • September 13, 2026

This column first ran ahead of the 50th annual Pegleg Smith Liars Contest in April 1998. Phil Brigandi, a longtime desert historian and four-time contest winner, died in 2019.

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