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 • October 25, 2024

Veterans Day Ceremony at Borrego Springs

Honoring Service in Borrego Springs

On Veterans Day 2024, Borrego Springs gathered at Christmas Circle to recognize and honor the sacrifices and contributions of veterans and active-duty military members. Hosted by American Legion Post 853, the event brought the community together in a meaningful celebration of service.

The ceremony featured keynote speaker Jimmy Smith, USAF Vietnam veteran, whose words offered thoughtful reflections on the meaning of service. Smith also took time to recognize hometown hero Gary Saunders, USA Vietnam veteran, whose dedication to the country and community served as an inspiration.

Pastor Mateo of the Borrego Springs Community United Methodist Church delivered a heartfelt invocation and benediction, offering words that framed the day with profound thoughtfulness and meaning. Judy Taylor complemented this atmosphere by performing patriotic music, enriching the event with a balance of reflection and celebration.

The Rifle Team carried out a traditional rifle salute, followed by the solemn playing of Taps. These moments were a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served. Additionally, attendees were given poppies by Marjorie, continuing the tradition of remembrance and respect.

The event showcased the collective efforts of many in the community, from organizers to volunteers, whose dedication made the day possible. Veterans Day 2024 served as both a tribute and a moment of connection, honoring those who served while bringing Borrego Springs together to reflect and remember.

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Brooke Erinoff of Infinite Exposures Photography

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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

NWS monitoring possible tropical cyclone that could affect San Diego County

By City News Service • September 2, 2026

The National Weather Service is monitoring Tropical Storm Marie, which developed near Baja California and could bring a chance of showers to San Diego County over Labor Day weekend.