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 • March 28, 2024

How To Explore Anza Borrego: Eco-friendly Footprint

Discover Sustainable Exploration and Unparalleled Natural Beauty

Borrego Springs, nestled within the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, is a haven for eco-conscious travelers seeking immersive experiences in nature.

Here's how you can explore this unique destination while maintaining an eco-friendly footprint:

Stargazing: The dark skies above Borrego Springs offer some of the best stargazing opportunities, making it a haven for astronomers and those who simply wish to gaze at the stars in awe.

Font's Point Visit: Often likened to California's own Grand Canyon, Font's Point provides a panoramic vista of the Borrego Badlands, showcasing the desert's dramatic geological formations.

Art and Nature at Borrego Art Institute: This creative hub integrates art with the desert environment, featuring community gardens and practices that emphasize sustainability and artistic expression.

Palm Canyon Trail Hike: Wander through diverse desert landscapes to discover a hidden palm oasis, revealing the surprising biodiversity of the desert ecosystem.

Golfing amidst Nature at Rams Hill: Enjoy a round of golf on a course designed with sustainability in mind, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful retreat in the desert.

Slot Canyon Adventure: Navigate through narrow canyons carved by natural forces over millennia, offering a unique perspective on the desert's ancient geological history.

Exploring Metal Sculptures: Encounter the whimsical and awe-inspiring metal sculptures dotting the landscape, blending artistry with the natural beauty of Borrego Springs.

Off-Road Desert Tours: Delve deeper into the untouched beauty of Anza-Borrego State Park with eco-friendly tours that tread lightly on the landscape, showcasing its rugged and untouched beauty.

Cycling Excursions: Whether pedaling at your own pace or on an e-bike tour, explore the scenic trails and roads of Borrego Springs, offering an eco-friendly way to cover more ground and take in the sights.

Each of these activities not only provides a gateway to the natural and artistic wonders of Borrego Springs but also aligns with eco-friendly principles, ensuring that your adventures contribute to the preservation of this unique desert landscape.

Learn More About Borrego Springs

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