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 • October 31, 2026

ABDNHA Announces 2026–2027 Activities

From desert hikes and stargazing to educational lectures and guided tours, the Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (ABDNHA) has posted its upcoming activities for the 2026–2027 season.

The schedule offers opportunities for residents and visitors to explore the desert, learn about local history, observe wildlife and discover the natural wonders of Anza-Borrego.

Programs include guided hikes, bird walks, four-wheel-drive excursions, astronomy presentations, nature journaling, cycling and educational lectures. Many outdoor activities are free, although advance registration is often required.

November Highlights

Nov. 2: Fern Canyon and Vandeventer Loop hike
Nov. 6: Stargazing Borrego's Dark Sky
Nov. 7: Deep Space Photography with Michael Poirier
Nov. 8: Rainbow Wash & Beyond 4WD Tour
Nov. 14–15: Annual Attic & Book Sale
Nov. 21: Historic Borrego Walkabout
Nov. 24: Full Moon Walk at South Palm Wash
Nov. 27: The Fascinating Story of Borrego's Sky Art, with Diana Lindsay
Nov. 28: Guided driving tour of Borrego's famous sculptures

Looking Ahead

December brings additional hikes, birding excursions, botany programs and lectures. The annual Desert Home & Garden Tour is scheduled for March 13, 2027, while a Mongolia tour is listed for June.

Activities vary in difficulty, and some have participant limits or special vehicle requirements. Several programs offer discounted admission for ABDNHA members and volunteers.

Explore the full schedule and register: ABDNHA Activities

For reservations or additional information, contact the Borrego Desert Nature Center at 760-767-3098, or visit 652 Palm Canyon Drive in Borrego Springs.