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 1, 2024

Spotlight On Fred Jee: Borrego Springs Film Festival

Borrego Springs: A Desert Gem with a Rich Legacy

Nestled in the heart of Anza-Borrego State Park, Borrego Springs emerges as a cinematic oasis in San Diego County, offering a pristine environment under the stars. This unique locale, recognized as California’s first International Dark-Sky Community, provides filmmakers and artists alike with a canvas of awe-inspiring vistas and a wealth of historical depth. Here, the desert landscapes and the dark, star-lit skies create an ideal setting for the vibrant Borrego Springs Film Festival (BSFF), enhancing the cinematic experience.

Celebrating Film and History at the Borrego Springs Film Festival

At the core of Borrego Springs' thriving film culture is the Borrego Springs Film Festival, where diversity in storytelling shines. Held annually, the festival transforms the local Performing Arts Center into a cultural nexus, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from around the globe. It's an event that not only celebrates the art of filmmaking but also reinforces the town's status as a hub for creative expression and cinematic exploration.

Fred Jee: Master of Desert Lore and Cinematic Settings

Fred Jee, a former State Park Ranger and an esteemed member of the local film community, stands as a pillar of knowledge and passion. With his extensive understanding of the region’s geography and captivating military history, Fred brings a unique perspective to the festival. His deep dives into the area's role in World War II training operations and his expertise as a premier location-fixer make him an invaluable resource. Filmmakers seeking authentic, visually stunning settings find in Fred an adept guide to the hidden narratives of Borrego Springs.

As Chairman of the BSFF Committee, Fred's influence extends beyond location scouting. He spearheads educational panels and discussions, like the renowned “Try That in a Small Town” event, which delves into Borrego Springs’ film legacy, dating back to the 1920s. His contributions illuminate the historical and cultural fabric of the town, enriching the festival experience and ensuring that the cinematic spirit of Borrego Springs continues to thrive.

Mar 22, 2022 – East County Magazine’s full interview with Fred Jee the Chairman of the Borrego Springs Film Festival.