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 2, 2024

BAI Welcomes Wade Beane as Interim Executive Director

Wade Beane Takes the Helm at Borrego Art Institute

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In a recent update from the Borrego Art Institute's newsletter, a significant leadership transition has been announced that is poised to shape the future of the institute. Wade Beane, formerly serving as the ArtPark Director, has been appointed the Interim Executive Director, succeeding Steve Fisher who has left a lasting legacy at the BAI.

Beane's appointment, effective from April 1st, marks a new chapter for the institute, with plans to continue his active involvement in the community through his work in the gardens.

Wade Beane is well-regarded within the Borrego Springs community, having carved a niche for himself through his extensive background in environmental and arts education. His journey from environmental educator to a pivotal figure at the Borrego Art Institute underscores his dedication to merging the realms of nature and artistic creativity.

During his tenure as ArtPark Director, Beane was instrumental in enhancing the visitor experience through his management of the organic garden and leadership on desert tours, emphasizing the institute's dedication to art's role in environmental consciousness.

Beane's educational credentials are impressive, with bachelor's degrees in Philosophy, Religious Studies, and Science Education, and a Master of Science in Education from Northern Illinois University. His career transition from teaching to developing nonprofit programs illustrates a diverse approach to community service and education.

In his own words shared in the BAI Newsletter, Wade Beane expressed his honor in leading the institute, acknowledging the significant role it plays in the Borrego community. His vision for the BAI's future is one of optimism and continued growth.

Supporting Beane in this new phase is Kim Wyatt, stepping into the role of Communications & Development Director in May, promising a strong leadership team for the institute's forthcoming endeavors.

As the Borrego Art Institute transitions under Wade Beane's interim leadership, the local and wider art community watches with eager anticipation for the innovative directions the institute will explore. Beane's commitment to environmental advocacy and artistic passion is expected to usher in an exciting new phase for the BAI, further enriching the vibrant cultural landscape of Borrego Springs.

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>> Read The BAI Newsletter About This Exciting Update