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.

Borrego Springs Local • March 11, 2022

The Rise of Borrego Springs: Grape Growing to Desert Oasis

How Alphonse A. Burnand, Jr. Transformed Borrego Valley into a Peaceful Haven for Agriculture and Tourism

Explore the history of Borrego Springs and how Alphonse A. Burnand, Jr. turned a grape-growing area into a tranquil desert community that rivals Palm Springs. Discover the valley’s slow and steady growth and how it has preserved its natural beauty and rustic charm, offering visitors a unique desert experience.

From Grapes to Desert Community: Alphonse A. Burnand, Jr.’s Journey to Borrego Springs

Alphonse A. Burnand, Jr. started his career in the early 1900s, growing and marketing grapes in the Central Valley near Delano. He eventually became a prominent grape marketer, handling the marketing for many local growers. In 1933, Burnand visited Borrego Valley, searching for a place to grow “early” grapes, and eventually acquired over 17,000 acres of land in the valley.

The Vision of Borrego Valley: Burnand’s Plan for a Planned Community

Burnand envisioned Borrego Valley as a desert community that could rival Palm Springs. He enlisted the help of contemporary celebrities, including Frank Morgan and Leo Carillo, to lure investors. The valley boasted a county airport, bus service, resorts and developments, and jeep tours of the valley and the nearby state park.

Growth and Development in Borrego Springs

Development in Borrego Springs proceeded rapidly at first, with the opening of the airport in 1949 and plans to construct the De Anza Country Club in 1953. However, while lots sold well, population growth was slow. The valley’s population reached 600 by 1950 but only grew by 180 in the next ten years. Two viewpoints emerged on the valley’s growth: rapid expansion or slower growth that preserves the valley’s tranquility.

Borrego Springs Today: A Peaceful Haven for Agriculture and Tourism

Today, Borrego Springs is a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking an escape from civilization. The valley’s mainstays are agriculture and tourism, with several resorts operating in the area. Many locals take pride in the valley’s slower, uncomplicated pace that offers a rustic desert experience in all seasons. With its natural beauty, Borrego Springs remains a special place, preserving the valley’s tranquility and peace.