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.

Andrea McKenna • July 15, 2026

Free Haircuts for Veterans from Maribel’s Chair

Local barber and cosmetologist Maribel Tellez is donating her time to honor those who have served.

As a way to give back to the community that has supported her, Maribel Tellez of Maribel's Chair will be offering free haircuts for veterans on Sunday, July 26, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at American Legion Post 853, 4515 Borrego Springs Rd., Borrego Springs, CA 92004.

"I've been fortunate to receive so much encouragement from this community as I've built my business," said Maribel. "Offering free haircuts is my way of saying thank you to our veterans for their service. I hope you'll stop by and let me give back in a small way."

Haircuts are free for all veterans. While there is no charge, donations are welcome and will help support future community outreach efforts.

Maribel is a licensed barber and cosmetologist and recently opened Maribel's Chair inside Alicia's Desert Spa. A recipient of the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award, she has built her business while balancing family, work, and a commitment to serving the Borrego Springs community. She is also an active member of OLAX – Organización Latinos, volunteering her time to support local events and families.

The event is made possible through the partnership of American Legion Post 853, which continues to expand its community outreach by hosting programs and services that support both local veterans and Borrego Springs businesses.

Event Details

Free Haircuts for Veterans
Sunday, July 26
12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

American Legion Post 853
590 Palm Canyon Drive
Borrego Springs, CA

Cost: Free for veterans. Donations are appreciated but never required.

Maribel looks forward to welcoming local veterans for an afternoon of appreciation, conversation, and community.

Learn More About Borrego Springs

Puttin’ on the Glitz Gala to Support Performing Arts in Borrego Springs

By BSPAC • November 13, 2026

Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center is seeking sponsors for its November 21 fundraiser

Community Resource Center Invites Everyone to Annual Friend-Raiser Open House

By Andrea McKenna • November 11, 2026

Food, friends, entertainment and community spirit come together Friday, November 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center (CRC) in The Mall. The Borrego Springs Community Resource Center is opening its doors for its annual Friend-Raiser Open House, inviting residents, visitors and newcomers to stop by, meet some friendly faces and learn more about the organization. The CRC is an important part of the Borrego Springs community, providing food assistance, educational opportunities and programs that bring people together. From its food bank to citizenship classes, Spanish lessons, computer literacy, exercise and Ballet Folklórico, the center offers resources and activities for people of all ages. The Friend-Raiser is an opportunity to see what the CRC is all about, meet the people behind its programs and connect with neighbors in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy food, wine and presentations featuring Las Flores del Desierto Ballet Folklórico , along with local dogs training for American Kennel Club (AKC) Rally Obedience titles. Whether you're a longtime supporter, new to Borrego Springs or simply curious about what the CRC offers, everyone is welcome to come by. Stop in, say hello, meet some friendly faces and celebrate the community connections that make Borrego Springs special! Event Details Friend-Raiser Open House Friday, November 13, 2026 5–8 p.m. Community Resource Center (CRC) Located in The Mall, Borrego Springs All are welcome!

SAVE THE DATE!: ARTTALK with artist ARhAyas PSonn AllureA

By Elizabeth Rodriquez • November 11, 2026

Join the artist ARhAyas PSonn AllureA for ARTTALK on Saturday, November 21 at 3pm at The Gallery at The Palms to converse about his assemblage collages relating to the erasure of Goddess wisdom and its metamorphosis to time present. Refreshments will be served for your enjoyment. The Gallery at The Palms is located at 2220 Hoberg Road, Borrego Springs, Ca. 92004