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 • January 3, 2024

Frank Morgan's Legacy in Borrego Springs

Costumed cast of The Wizard of Oz posing together on a studio set

Celebrating the Wizard of Oz Star’s Connection to Our Desert Community

Frank Morgan, best known for his role as the Wizard in the iconic film The Wizard of Oz, had a meaningful connection to Borrego Springs. As the Broadway show Wicked surges in popularity, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the man behind the curtain—and his ties to our desert haven.

The Hollywood Star in Borrego Springs

Before he became the first ceremonial official of Borrego Springs, Frank Morgan was one of the most well-respected character actors in the silent film era of Hollywood. He starred in movies alongside legendary early film performers such as John Barrymore and Thomas "Tommy" Meighan.

Morgan’s career continued to flourish as films transitioned to sound, showcasing his remarkable range. In The Wizard of Oz (1939), Morgan played five roles: the Wizard, the carnival huckster "Professor Marvel," the Gatekeeper who initially refuses to let Dorothy and her friends into Emerald City, the carriage driver of the "horse of a different color," and the Palace Guard who denies Dorothy access to the Wizard. Morgan was cast in this legendary role on September 22, 1938, after W.C. Fields declined the part over contractual disputes.

During this era, Morgan was a sought-after actor for both comedic and serious roles. His performances in Saratoga (1937) and Casanova Brown (1944) revealed his comic talent, while his portrayals in The Shop Around the Corner (1940), The Mortal Storm (1940), and The Human Comedy (1943) highlighted his dramatic depth.

By the time he became involved in Borrego Springs, Morgan had firmly established himself as a Hollywood icon, known for both his versatility and charisma.

Morgan’s Borrego Connection

In the late 1930s, Morgan purchased land in the Borrego Valley, which would later become known as Morgan Manor. His connection to the community deepened in 1948, when he was named the first honorary mayor of Borrego Springs. This role reflected his love for the desert town and its residents. Morgan subdivided Morgan Manor shortly before his passing in 1950, further contributing to the area’s development as a serene getaway.

A Timeline of Frank Morgan’s Borrego Connection

Frank Morgan, best known for playing the Wizard in The Wizard of Oz, also has a place in Borrego Springs history. Beyond his Hollywood career, Morgan invested in the Borrego Valley, became tied to early resort life, and is remembered as the community’s first honorary mayor.

1937: Frank Morgan purchased land in the Borrego Valley.

1948: Hoberg’s Desert Resort, now The Palms at Indian Head, opened on New Year’s Day. Morgan was a frequent guest during his Borrego visits and was named the first honorary mayor of Borrego Springs.

Late 1940s: Morgan subdivided Morgan Manor, contributing to the area’s early development as a desert resort community. The area is now known as Sungold, with sizeable lots for single-family homes.

1949: Morgan died unexpectedly on September 18 at age 59.

Hollywood Glamour and Hoberg’s Resort

Borrego Springs of the 1950s was a favorite hideaway for Hollywood stars seeking relaxation, including Marilyn Monroe, Bing Crosby, Leo Carrillo, Burgess Meredith, Gale Gordon (Borrego's honorary mayor for many years), Will Rogers, John Wayne, James Arness, and Frank Morgan.

Cozy seating area with two beige chairs, a table lamp, and framed black-and-white wall art on a dark brick wall

The Palms at Indian Head, located on the site of the old Hoberg Resort, became a hub for this glittering crowd. Built in 1947, the resort featured amenities such as a landing strip, oversized Olympic pool, cocktail lounge, restaurant, bungalow retreats, horseback riding, shuffleboard, and tennis.

Palm-lined adobe-style building with steps and warm sunset lighting

Outdoor restaurant patio at night with lit tables, chairs, and warm lights under a modern building overhang

Palm-lined resort pool with clear blue water, lounge chairs, and desert mountains in the background

Bright living room with a gray couch, wooden coffee table, TV, and large windows overlooking palm trees.

Adobe buildings along a desert path with a bush and cloudy mountains in the background

Cozy restaurant dining room with wooden tables, warm lights, and wreath-decorated windows

The community also boasted a rich artistic spirit. Lon Chaney Jr., of the famed theatrical family, started a community theater group in Borrego in 1950. The Little Theater Group performed for limited audiences at the old Hoberg Resort Hotel, hosting productions such as "Years Ago" by Ruth Gordon. These performances continued with notable contributions from Paula "Polly" Baker, a well-known actress from New York City.

Why Frank Morgan’s Borrego Story Matters Today

Borrego Springs continues to thrive as a desert retreat for those seeking an escape from city life. Frank Morgan’s connection to the town underscores its long history as a destination for inspiration and rejuvenation. As Wicked brings his Wizard of Oz legacy back into the spotlight, it’s a wonderful opportunity to remind fans of his enduring ties to our community.

Visit Borrego Springs to Experience Its Magic

Whether you’re a Wizard of Oz fan, a Broadway enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique destination, Borrego Springs offers something special. From its breathtaking Anza-Borrego State Park to its artistic community, you can explore the same inspiring landscapes that once captivated Frank Morgan.

And for almost every rain shower in Borrego Springs, you will see a rainbow or even multiple rainbows—and they can sometimes last the whole day.

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.