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 • March 28, 2024

Thanksgiving at The Palms at Indian Head

Thanksgiving celebration at The Palms at Indian Head

Whether you're a local or visiting Borrego Springs for the holiday, The Palms at Indian Head offers an unforgettable Thanksgiving experience. Known for its mid-century charm and stunning desert views, The Palms invites you to savor a five-course Thanksgiving feast at the renowned Coyote Steakhouse. This annual tradition combines fine dining with the opportunity to unwind in one of their beautifully upgraded rooms, creating an ideal holiday escape.

For those preferring a cozy meal at home, Coyote Steakhouse also offers Thanksgiving dinner to-go. Enjoy the same exquisite flavors and traditional dishes from the comfort of your own space.

Book your room, table, or to-go order today for a memorable Thanksgiving in Borrego Springs!

Experience a memorable Thanksgiving celebration at The Palms at Indian Head in Borrego Springs.

Feast at Coyote Steakhouse

Coyote Steakhouse will serve a five-course dinner that has become a beloved tradition over nearly three decades. The menu includes classic Thanksgiving flavors, fresh seasonal ingredients, and a choice of main dishes to suit every taste. From tender roast turkey with sage stuffing to prime rib, filet mignon, salmon, and a vegetarian portobello mushroom option, there’s something for everyone.

Why Stay at The Palms for Thanksgiving?

This historic hotel, with roots in Borrego Springs’ Hollywood past, offers a unique getaway that blends vintage luxury with modern comfort. After dinner, unwind in one of their stylish, newly upgraded rooms. Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, relax by the Olympic-sized pool, or take a stargazing walk in the peaceful desert night.

A Historic Getaway

The Palms at Indian Head, once known as the Hoberg Resort, has hosted iconic Hollywood stars from Marilyn Monroe to Clark Gable. Built in 1947 and rebuilt in 1958 after a fire, the resort combines mid-century elegance with desert tranquility. It’s named for the stunning California fan palms on the property and its proximity to Indian Head Mountain—a striking desert landmark.

For reservations and inquiries, contact The Palms at Indian Head Hotel: 📞 Phone: (760) 767-7788

📍 Location: 2220 Hoberg Road, Borrego Springs, CA

The Palms at Indian Head Property and Surrounding Area

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Old Borego Open House Celebrates the Valley’s Historic Heart

By Martha Deichler • September 4, 2026

Please join the Civic Foundation for its annual Old Borego Days celebration No, Borrego is not misspelled in the title above. This is the way Borrego was spelled back in 1928, when the first post office opened in what is now called “Old Borego.” The site is located at 1580 Rango Way. Please join the Civic Foundation for its annual Old Borego Days celebration of the historic heart of the Borrego Valley on Sunday, November 8, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The turnoff from Rango Way will be marked with a sign. Please note that no restrooms are available. Visitors will be able to enter the old post office and general store, originally run by Eslie Wynn, and view a fascinating video from the 1950s extolling the virtues of life in Borrego Springs. One of the first homes in Borrego Springs will also be open for public viewing, offering a nostalgic look back at life in the community’s earlier years. In addition, Borrego Springs Elementary School fourth graders, who study California history, will have their essays on display. Three students will receive awards for their writing on “Borego Now and Then.” Old Borego Days Sunday, November 8, 2026 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. 1580 Rango Way, Borrego Springs

Borrego Springs High School Blood Drive

By Borrego Springs High School • August 29, 2026

Wednesday, September 16

George & Rosa Featured in St. Barnabas “Who Is My Neighbor?” Series

By St Barnabas Communications • August 27, 2026

Borrego Springs-made short film screens Oct. 11 St. Barnabas Episcopal Church will present the award-winning short film George & Rosa on Sunday, Oct. 11, from 1–2 p.m. as part of its “Who Is My Neighbor?” film and discussion series. Written, produced and directed by Borrego Springs resident Matt Bosson, the 24-minute drama follows George and Rosa, two people living on the margins who form an unexpected bond despite speaking different languages. The story explores loneliness, companionship and human dignity. George & Rosa was produced entirely in Borrego Springs, with local talent involved in the production and the Anza-Borrego desert serving as its backdrop. The film won Best Medium Short in the Reale Film Festival’s June 2026 Monthly Awards. Bosson worked for many years in television video playback on productions including 24, House MD and Grey’s Anatomy before relocating to Borrego Springs, where he teaches English and continues his filmmaking and music work. His previous short BAD was also filmed and premiered in Borrego Springs. The screening will be held at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 2680 Country Club Road, followed by a community discussion as part of the ongoing “Who Is My Neighbor?” series.