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 • May 23, 2026

Local Author Michael Plekon Reflects on Modern Ministry

How the Borrego Ministers' Association Exemplifies Ministry in Action

Michael Plekon, a local author, retired pastor, and co-chair of the Borrego Ministers' Association (BMA), continues to inspire and serve the Borrego Springs community. Known for his thoughtful writing and decades of ministry, Fr. Plekon provides pastoral counsel at St. Barnabas and beyond, offering support to those in need.

In an interview with Living Lutheran, Plekon discusses his book, Ministry Matters: Pastors, Their Life and Work Today. He reflects on the evolving role of clergy and the challenges of guiding congregations in today’s changing world. Through stories of diverse faith leaders like Pope Francis, Nadia Bolz-Weber, and Barbara Brown Taylor, his book highlights the vital role of pastors in fostering community, reconciliation, and faith.

The Borrego Ministers' Association embodies the spirit of Ministry Matters. As an ecumenical group, the BMA provides tangible support to local residents, helping with rent, utilities, medical transportation, property cleanup, and food coupons. This work showcases how ministry extends far beyond church walls, offering practical and compassionate care to the community.

To delve deeper into Fr. Plekon’s thoughts on modern ministry, read the full interview on Living Lutheran: https://www.livinglutheran.org/2025/01/what-is-the-role-of-the-pastor-today/.

Learn More About Borrego Springs

Shop the Rack, Support the Community: Frugal Coyote Launches Nonprofit of the Month

By Anna Abatzoglou Executive Director, Borrego Valley Endowment Fund • September 24, 2026

Frugal Coyote is giving shoppers a new way to support Borrego Springs with its Nonprofit of the Month program.

Borrego Springs Resident Spotlight: Esmeralda Lopez-Garcia

By Andrea McKenna • September 14, 2026

Meet Esmeralda Lopez-Garcia, a lifelong Borrego Springs resident, mother, community leader and OLAX founder whose heart for helping others has shaped generations.

A Conversation About Community: Martha Deichler on Opportunity in Borrego Springs

By Andrea McKenna • August 30, 2026

Martha Deichler discusses the Community Resource Center's impact on local services & education. Read more about community growth!

George & Rosa Featured in St. Barnabas “Who Is My Neighbor?” Series

By St Barnabas Communications • August 27, 2026

Borrego Springs-made short film screens Oct. 11 St. Barnabas Episcopal Church will present the award-winning short film George & Rosa on Sunday, Oct. 11, from 1–2 p.m. as part of its “Who Is My Neighbor?” film and discussion series. Written, produced and directed by Borrego Springs resident Matt Bosson, the 24-minute drama follows George and Rosa, two people living on the margins who form an unexpected bond despite speaking different languages. The story explores loneliness, companionship and human dignity. George & Rosa was produced entirely in Borrego Springs, with local talent involved in the production and the Anza-Borrego desert serving as its backdrop. The film won Best Medium Short in the Reale Film Festival’s June 2026 Monthly Awards. Bosson worked for many years in television video playback on productions including 24, House MD and Grey’s Anatomy before relocating to Borrego Springs, where he teaches English and continues his filmmaking and music work. His previous short BAD was also filmed and premiered in Borrego Springs. The screening will be held at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 2680 Country Club Road, followed by a community discussion as part of the ongoing “Who Is My Neighbor?” series.