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 • April 18, 2023

A Message to Bike Riders: Come Explore Borrego Springs!

Looking for a cyclist-friendly destination with scenic routes, breathtaking views, and a welcoming community?

Borrego Springs is the perfect place to explore by bike. Whether you're an avid road racer, a casual rider, or someone who just loves outdoor adventures, this desert oasis has something for every level of cyclist. From its open roads and dedicated bike paths to its charming local businesses and stunning landscapes, Borrego Springs offers an unforgettable biking experience.

Why Borrego Springs is Perfect for Cyclists

One of the biggest draws of Borrego Springs for cyclists is the town's commitment to creating a bike-friendly environment. The roads have been designed with riders in mind, offering plenty of space to enjoy your ride safely. Plus, with very little traffic, you can focus on the beautiful desert scenery instead of worrying about busy roads.

Scenic Desert Rides

Borrego Springs is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, making every ride an opportunity to take in nature’s beauty. Whether you're coasting down flat, open roads or tackling more challenging routes, the views of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, local wildlife, and distant mountain ranges are sure to impress. The peacefulness of the desert, paired with the fresh air and wide-open spaces, makes cycling here a rejuvenating experience.

Diverse Routes for All Riders

Borrego Springs has routes that cater to cyclists of all skill levels. Beginners can enjoy leisurely rides through town or along easy paved paths, while experienced riders can challenge themselves with longer routes that weave through the desert terrain. Popular bike paths include the paved stretches around town, where you can ride past local shops and attractions, or scenic desert routes that take you deeper into the area's natural beauty.

Plan a Day of Adventure on Two Wheels

Borrego Springs is not just a cycling destination; it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and natural surroundings. After a day of riding, you can stop at one of the local cafes for a refreshing drink or explore the many hiking trails, sculptures, and outdoor activities the area has to offer.

Local Restaurants and Cafes

Cycling works up an appetite, and Borrego Springs has plenty of dining options to help you refuel. Whether you're in the mood for casual bites or something more refined, the town's restaurants and cafes cater to a wide range of tastes. Stop in for a quick snack or unwind with a full meal after your ride. You’ll find everything from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments.

Explore the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

As the largest state park in California, the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is one of the top attractions for visitors. Cyclists can venture out on roads that pass through the park and catch glimpses of fascinating wildlife and desert plants. The vast desert landscape changes with the seasons, making each ride a new experience. Keep your eyes peeled for wildflowers in bloom or native animals like bighorn sheep.

Rest and Recharge: Where to Stay in Borrego Springs

After a long day on the road, you’ll need a comfortable place to rest. Borrego Springs has a variety of lodging options to suit every traveler. From quaint bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious resorts, there's no shortage of places to relax. Many accommodations offer bike storage and other amenities that cater to cyclists. Whether you're in town for a day or an extended stay, you'll find a cozy spot to recharge before your next adventure.

How to Get Here: A Scenic Ride to Borrego Springs

Located within a short drive from both San Diego and Palm Springs, Borrego Springs is easily accessible for day trips or weekend getaways. If you're coming from San Diego, take I-8 east and connect to S-22 for a scenic drive through the desert. From Palm Springs, head southeast on CA-111 and turn onto S-22. Along the way, you'll pass through vast desert expanses, giving you a preview of the beauty that awaits.

Once you arrive, you'll find Borrego Springs to be a welcoming and cyclist-friendly town, ready to show off its unique desert charm. The community's laid-back atmosphere makes it easy for visitors to feel at home, whether you're here for a quick ride or a multi-day cycling adventure.

Bike-Friendly Borrego: A Destination for All Cyclists

Borrego Springs is more than just a place to ride—it's a destination where cyclists can immerse themselves in nature, local culture, and a peaceful desert atmosphere. Whether you're tackling challenging desert routes or cruising through town, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.

With beautiful bike paths, stunning landscapes, and a community that welcomes cyclists, Borrego Springs is a must-visit for anyone who loves exploring on two wheels. So pack your gear, hop on your bike, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget. We can’t wait to see you riding through Borrego Springs!

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OpiCure Ascent to Freedom ride: Uniting community to honor recovery

By OpiCure Foundation • November 10, 2026

This is more than a bike ride. The OpiCure Ascent to Freedom Ride in Borrego Springs takes place Saturday, November 21, and brings together riders, friends, families, and the recovery community for a full day of connection and celebration, in association with Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. Join the ride through the desert, jump into the pickleball tournament (all skill levels welcome), and enjoy meals provided for the riders as we come together to mark sobriety, share stories, and support one another. Whether you’re riding, playing, volunteering, or simply showing up, you’re part of this. Come be part of something bigger than any single activity — come be part of the Ascent to Freedom. “We wanted this to be a fun day that everyone can enjoy. Come meet the Opicure Community and grow with us,” says OpiCure Foundation President Cullen Easter. In the heart of the Anza-Borrego Desert, this inaugural OpiCure event brings together people in recovery, their families, and the cycling community to celebrate sobriety, share stories of strength, and raise awareness about the opioid crisis. "By turning the simple act of riding into a collective ascent toward freedom, it shows that recovery is possible, community heals, and every pedal stroke can move us closer to a life beyond addiction," says Cullen. "The OpiCure Ascent to Freedom is about community, movement, and celebrating recovery in every form." OpiCure Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Non Profit Foundation focused on addressing opioid-related addiction and deaths. More information on the event is available at opicureride.com .