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 • January 1, 2024

Borrego Ministers Association: Continuing Needs

Borrego Ministers Association: A Year of Giving Amid Growing Needs

Based on insights from Rev. Michael Plekon's Borrego Sun article, the Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) takes a stand against the increasing issue of food insecurity, ensuring support reaches those in need amidst rising challenges.

Community Solidarity Powers BMA's Mission

The unwavering support from Borrego Springs' residents and local organizations has been crucial, enabling the BMA to provide essential aid such as grocery coupons and assistance with utilities and rent.

Holistic Support: BMA's Approach to Community Well-being

Expanding its reach beyond immediate relief, the BMA undertakes various initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall well-being of the community, from religious services to support groups.

Optimism in the Face of Continuous Need

Despite ongoing challenges, the BMA is propelled by the community's generosity, laying a robust foundation for sustained and future endeavors to uplift Borrego Springs.

To support or learn more about the Borrego Ministers Association (BMA), now recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 92-3678192), making your donations 100% tax-deductible, visit their website at https://borregoministersassociation.org/.

Learn More About The Borrego Ministers Association

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.