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 • May 9, 2024

Borrego Springs Art Guild Installation at The Arches

Art and Dining at The Arches

Visit The Arches restaurant and bar this May for a unique blend of art and dining at the Borrego Springs Resort located at 1112 Tilting T Drive in Borrego Springs, The Arches offers a mid-century modern vibe where guests can enjoy an array of artworks from the Borrego Springs Art Guild.

Savor delicious meals and refreshing drinks in a comfortable setting, all while enjoying panoramic views of the desert through expansive windows—a perfect backdrop for wildlife spotting and art appreciation.

The Inspiration Behind the Art Installation

Site Manager Michele Rivera has significantly enriched the ambiance at The Arches with several thoughtful updates, including fresh plants and a revamped menu. Her latest initiative, collaborating with the Borrego Springs Art Guild, continues this trend of enhancements. This art collaboration has brought together talented local artists such as Jeni Bate, Linda Bates, Warner Graves, Joya Hoyt, Leonardo Huete, Stacey Landfield, Jeanne Plekon, Diana Prout, and Monica Rue, adding a dynamic artistic dimension to the dining experience. Each of these efforts reflects Michele's commitment to improving and diversifying the offerings at The Arches, emphasizing her role in reinvigorating the space and connecting with the community.

Why Visit The Arches?

A visit to The Arches at Borrego Springs Resort & Spa this May is more than just a meal—it's a cultural experience. The combination of local art, excellent cuisine, and a stylish setting provides a perfect way to support and enjoy the local community's artistic endeavors. It's an ideal outing for anyone looking to indulge in the rich tapestry of Borrego Springs' culture and cuisine.