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/.