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 • March 26, 2024

Borrego Springs American Legion: Support For Veterans

Borrego Springs: A Haven for Veterans

Borrego Springs is a haven for veterans, offering not just stunning scenery but a strong community that actively supports those who served. At the heart of this support system is American Legion Post 853, a cornerstone for veterans, their families, and the entire town.

A Legacy of Service: The American Legion

Founded in 1919 by World War I veterans, the American Legion is the nation's largest wartime veterans service organization. Their mission? To improve the quality of life for veterans, their families, and our communities. Post 853 embodies this mission in countless ways.

Beyond the Battlefield: How Post 853 Serves

Need help navigating complex VA benefits? Post 853 offers free advice to veterans. They honor fallen heroes at funerals, ensuring their service is never forgotten. From putting up flags on patriotic holidays to leading parades, they add a touch of tradition and respect to Borrego Springs.

But their support goes beyond veterans themselves. The dedicated Women's Auxiliary provides a vital social network for spouses, fostering a sense of belonging. They hold fundraising breakfasts for local high school sports teams, demonstrating their commitment to Borrego Springs' youth. And perhaps most unique, Post 853 offers visiting veterans a place to camp on their property, making Borrego Springs even more attractive to those who served.

Supporting the Supporters: The Bargain Barn

Many of these initiatives are funded by the Bargain Barn, a thrift store run by Post 853. Think of it as a treasure trove where you can find hidden gems while simultaneously supporting a great cause. Every item you unearth goes towards vital community programs and veteran initiatives.

Interested in Getting Involved?

If you're a veteran looking for support, or simply curious about how you can help, contact American Legion Post 853.

Borrego Springs is fortunate to have the American Legion Post 853 and the Bargain Barn. Let's thank them for their continued service to our community and our veterans!