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

Sustainable Tourism with the Borrego Village Association

What Is The Borrego Village Association?

The Borrego Village Association (BVA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing a thriving community in the Borrego Valley, adjacent to the stunning Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Through sustainable tourism, the BVA aims to balance community well-being with environmental preservation.

Sustainable Tourism Program

The BVA's approach is anchored in geotourism, which emphasizes the sustainability of the area's unique geography, culture, and environment. This initiative arose from the critical need to address water scarcity in the region, leading to the creation of the Borrego Valley Stewardship Council and the adoption of a governance charter aligned with National Geographic's sustainable management principles.

Geotourism: A Core Principle

Geotourism fosters tourism that enhances the geographical character of a place, including its environment, culture, and resident well-being. It aims to educate visitors on the significance of the area, encouraging mindful exploration and preservation.

BVA's Mission and Vision

The BVA envisions the Borrego Valley as a "hospitality hub," promoting Anza-Borrego Desert State Park as a world-class destination for wilderness and discovery. Their mission is to ensure the community's prosperity while maintaining the natural beauty and integrity of the surroundings.

Leadership and Partnerships

Guided by experienced leaders like Executive Director James Dion, the BVA collaborates with various partners, including the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and the Borrego Water District, to achieve its sustainable tourism goals.

Benefits of BVA's Approach

Economic Benefits: Enhances local economic stability.

Community Engagement: Unites local stakeholders for a common cause.

Cultural Preservation: Celebrates and sustains local heritage and culture.

Environmental Conservation: Focuses on the conservation of natural resources.

Educational Opportunities: Offers learning experiences for visitors and locals.

For more details on the BVA's sustainable tourism initiatives and how they contribute to the Borrego Valley, visit their official website and the Borrego Experience platform.

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.

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