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.

Shandel Sutherland • October 19, 2025

ABDNHA 2025-26 Activity Calendar is Out!

Explore the ABDNHA 2024-2025 Activity Schedule

The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) is a community-driven organization dedicated to fostering appreciation of the Anza-Borrego Desert. Founded in 1971, ABDNHA offers educational programs, hikes, and community events to connect people with the desert's unique environment.

ABDNHA ACTIVITY CALENDAR

The 2023-2024 activity calendar is now available, filled with exciting opportunities to explore and learn.

>> Click Here

ABDNHA's Mission and Impact

ABDNHA's mission is to educate residents and visitors about the ecology, geology, and cultural history of the Anza-Borrego region. Through expert-led programs, hikes, and lectures, the organization promotes sustainable practices and encourages stewardship of the desert.

Educational Programs and Activities

Nature and Science Education: ABDNHA offers webinars, stargazing events, and other programs to explore the desert's wonders.

Guided Hikes and Field Trips: Led by knowledgeable volunteers, these hikes immerse participants in the desert landscape, highlighting native plants, animals, and geology.

ABDNHA Desert Garden: The Desert Garden showcases native and adapted desert plants, providing insights into desert landscaping and the ecological importance of desert flora.

Conservation Efforts: ABDNHA promotes sustainability and protects the region’s unique habitats for future generations.

Community Engagement: Events like the Borrego Days Parade and member appreciation days foster community spirit and celebrate desert life.

Visit the Nature Center

The ABDNHA Nature Center in Borrego Springs offers interactive exhibits, a gift shop, and information on activities. It’s an ideal starting point for learning about the region and upcoming events.

Join the ABDNHA Community

Get involved by attending hikes, workshops, or supporting conservation efforts. The 2023-2024 activity calendar features a variety of events—many of which are free. Some activities require registration due to limited space. For the latest schedule, visit ABDNHA's Activity Calendar or call 760-767-3098.

Connect with nature and join a community passionate about the wonders of Anza-Borrego.

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

Borrego Springs Honors Veterans at Christmas Circle

By Andrea McKenna • November 12, 2026

American Legion Post 853 hosted Borrego Springs’ Veterans Day ceremony on Wednesday, November 11, at the Christmas Circle Community Park bandstand.

SLOWJAMASTAN CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE WITH HISTORIC TERRITORIAL EXPANSION

By Robert Dobalina, Slowjamastan • November 12, 2026

World-Famous Micronation to Announce Five-Acre Expansion, Unveil Two New States During November 14 Jubilee The Republic of Slowjamastan is celebrating its fifth anniversary of independence with a historic announcement: the nation is expanding its territory by nearly 50 percent. On Saturday, November 14, from 1–3 PM, Slowjamastan will host its 5th Anniversary of Independence Jubilee, featuring the official announcement and ribbon-cutting ceremony for five newly acquired acres of land, one for each year of independence. The five additional acres, contiguous with the nation's existing 11-acre territory, bring Slowjamastan's total footprint to 16 acres. The public is invited to participate in the festivities, which include: • Historic ribbon-cutting celebrating Slowjamastan's territorial expansion. • Two new states officially commemorated within the nation. • Visa-free entry for the first 10,000 visitors. Crocs remain strictly prohibited. • Free Cactus Cooler while supplies last. • Meet and greet with The Sultan and the Chief of the Porder Batrol. "Five years. Five acres. Sixteen acres of freedom, questionable legislation, and absolutely no Crocs," said The Sultan. "Most countries celebrate anniversaries with cake. We bought more country." Founded in 2021, the Republic of Slowjamastan has attracted worldwide media attention for its unconventional approach to nation-building, complete with its own government, passports, border checkpoints, and national traditions. EVENT DETAILS What: Slowjamastan's 5th Anniversary of Independence Jubilee When: Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 1–3 PM Where: Republic of Slowjamastan, Imperial County, California. See slowjamastan.org/location Admission: Free Learn more about Slowjamastan: www.slowjamastan.org MEDIA CONTACT Robert Dobalina bob@slowjamastan.org

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