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 • February 28, 2026

(Q&A) Dennis Mammana: Astronomy and Dark Skies

Dennis Mammana: Bridge to Borrego Springs’ Dark Sky Legacy

Meet Dennis Mammana, a passionate astronomer with nearly five decades of experience in unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. Dennis’s journey began in Easton, PA, where he was captivated by the launch of the first Earth-orbiting satellites in the late 1950s.

With a degree in physics and astronomy from Otterbein College, he pursued further studies at Vanderbilt University, where his research involved a year-long study of distant Seyfert galaxies. This journey culminated in a coveted one-year internship at the renowned Strasenburgh Planetarium.

Dennis’s career has taken him to prestigious institutions, including the Smithsonian Institution’s National Air & Space Museum, the University of Arizona, and the Reuben H. Fleet Space Theatre & Science Center in San Diego.

Beyond academia, Dennis is an accomplished night sky photographer, earning an invited membership in TWAN (The World at Night). His celestial images have graced international publications and NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day.

As a versatile public speaker, Dennis has captivated and enlightened audiences spanning the globe, from local gatherings to international venues, encompassing diverse age groups and backgrounds, and catering to both novice enthusiasts and seasoned experts. His expertise extends beyond conventional boundaries, as he has orchestrated numerous public observing and sky photo expeditions worldwide.

For over 32 years, STARGAZERS, Dennis Mammana’s beloved column, has been a window to the cosmos.

Borrego Springs International Dark Sky Community

Notably, Dennis has a deep connection to Borrego Springs, the only International Dark Sky Community in California. In 2009, he was honored as the Grand Marshal of the 44th Annual Borrego Days Desert Festival for his contributions to preserving its dark skies.

Q&A Interview with Dennis Mammana

1. What Inspired Your Astronomy Career?

Dennis : I began looking at the stars when I was just 7 or 8 years old. My father and I spent time outdoors watching for the first satellites that were launched from Earth, and I fell in love with the stars. Not long after that I got a small telescope and began peering deeper into the sky. And, when my eighth-grade teacher presented a unit on astronomy, I was hooked, and I knew that’s what I wanted to do with my life!

2. In what ways has technology enhanced the stargazing experience for enthusiasts and the general public?

Dennis : Over the past few decades, technology has trickled down from professional astronomy to amateur astronomers. Today, computerized telescopes, electronic imaging, remote observing, and more are being used nightly by thousands around the world. They are using small backyard telescopes to take photos that rival those of the largest observatories just a few years ago, and are doing valuable research on many cutting-edge topics in astronomy.

3. What technology trends do you foresee for the future?

Dennis : If I were Isaac Asimov I might have a good answer for you… alas, I can only begin to imagine how technology will change astronomy in the future!

One way it might change for amateur astronomers is the use of adaptive optics in which the turbulence of our atmosphere is reduced to make our images sharper. I also suspect much more of astronomy will become robotic which, in a sense, is a shame since part of the magic of studying the universe is being outside under the stars.

4. Are you particularly excited about any specific stargazing or astronomical technologies, discoveries, events, or missions?

Dennis : To me, the search for planets orbiting other stars is particularly exciting. As of today, we know of more than 5,500 planets in orbit around other stars, and astronomers are now using technology to study the atmospheres of those planets for signs of life. I was fortunate to co-author the first book on the search for these worlds, so I may be a bit biased!

And, of course, large ground-based and spaceborne telescopes are growing at an unprecedented rate. The Hubble Telescope (which has been revolutionizing our concept of the universe since 1990) coupled with the recent launch of the James Webb Space Telescope and the upcoming 30- and 39-meter telescopes are ushering in a truly golden age of astronomy.

5. Are there any television shows, documentaries, or movies that you suggest to people who want to learn about Astronomy?

Dennis : Of course, there are the standard Nova programs about space and astronomy—those are always excellent. And any books by Carl Sagan are at the top of my list!

As for movies, perhaps my favorite is the 1997 film “Contact” (story by Carl Sagan) in which Jodie Foster plays a radio astronomer in search of signals of extraterrestrial intelligent life, while Matthew McConaughey plays a Christian philosopher who, as her love interest, creates quite an intellectual struggle for her. While the plot is interesting, it’s the subtext (the constant conflict between science and belief) that captivates me.

6. What tools do you suggest for a beginner if they want to start learning more about astronomy?

Dennis : My first recommendation is to get out under the stars to begin learning constellations, the movements of the moon and planets, and how the sky changes during the weeks and months. There are plenty of apps to help, though I find them only marginally useful since information appears quite tiny on a smartphone.

I also recommend keeping up with my syndicated column “ Stargazers ”; if it doesn’t appear in the local newspaper, one can subscribe to it free via email. The “subscribe” button is tiny, and located at the bottom of each column near my photo.

Another way to learn is to visit your local planetarium, as well as become involved with your local amateur astronomy club ; many communities have one!

7. What steps should Borrego Springs take to continue highlighting its dark sky designation? Is there another city that we should look to as an example?

Dennis : I think that, for as small as it is, Borrego Springs is doing great in highlighting our International Dark Sky designation—it’s quite a selling point. As one who regularly sees people visiting here from around the world and participating in my Borrego Night Sky Tours, I’m very happy about how many people have learned about us from the Chamber of Commerce, the State Park, ABDNHA and elsewhere.

8. What are your visions for the future of Borrego Springs as an International Dark Sky Community?

Dennis : I hope we can continue to enjoy a dark sky in the face of increasing light pollution from cities around us. We must make sure that lighting in our town is aimed downward and shielded, and that any new buildings follow or exceed the strict ordinances put forth by San Diego County. Our dark sky is one of the reasons that many enjoy our desert town, and why many choose to live here. DarkSky (formerly the International Dark Sky Association) shares with the public many ways we can help preserve our dark sky while, at the same time, having all the outdoor light we need and saving money on electricity.

9. What is the best time to visit Borrego Springs to get the best view of the sky?

Dennis : There really is no “best time”. The sky during every season is always exciting, but the weather can be good or bad, just like anywhere else. In the summer months (for example July and August) we have the best view of the Milky Way, while in the winter months (January and February) we see some of the most brilliant stars of the entire year.

On average, Borrego does tend to see more clouds (and occasionally some rain) during the late summer and winter months, but this can be quite variable from year to year, and there is often no way to predict sky conditions any particular night until that night.

Helpful links:

The Sky Tonight: Ruben H Fleet

‘Stargazers’ by Dennis Mammana

Nova on PBS

Dark Sky Guidance and Practices

Exoplanets by Nasa

Carl Sagan Books

‘Contact’ the Movie

In Appreciation: Dennis Mammana’s Enduring Impact

Dennis now pursues his passion as an astronomy writer, lecturer, and photographer beneath the pristine, star-studded skies of Southern California’s Anza-Borrego Desert, where he also conducts captivating night sky tours in Borrego Springs and Anza Borrego State Park.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Dennis Mammana for his time and dedication. His contributions to Borrego Springs’ Dark Sky Community and the field of astronomy are invaluable.

Visit Dennismammana.com

Learn More About The Night Sky

A Yacht Club in the Borrego Desert

By Andrea McKenna • September 28, 2026

Borrego Springs Yacht Club Brings Model Sailboat Racing to Rams Hill Borrego Springs is home to an unusual desert pastime: model yacht racing. The Borrego Springs Yacht Club was founded in 2010 by Steve Luckman and Dennis Daoust. The club has grown to about 40 members and operates at a pond on the former nine-hole golf course at Rams Hill. Members race V32 sailboats, 32-inch non-motorized model boats controlled remotely through their sails and rudders. The boats were manufactured in California for decades but are no longer in production. Races typically draw 16 to 20 boats, with courses marked by duck decoys used as buoys. The racing season runs from November through May, although members can practice throughout the year. Six club events are held during the season, including Opening Day in November, the Pacific Cap in January, the Invitational in February, the Misplace Race in March, the Powder Puff in April and the Tequila Bowl in May. Winners receive trophies that are held until the next event. The club also maintains a palapa-style clubhouse and hillside seating overlooking the pond, providing space for members and spectators during race days. Membership was listed at $250 per year. The Borrego Springs Yacht Club offers a distinctive local version of sailing, combining competition, model boat craftsmanship and community activity in the desert. If you have any interest, contact Dennis Daoust at captain-havoc@earthlink.net .

BSFI Free Movies -- OCTOBER 2026 at BSPAC

By Matt Bosson • September 27, 2026

The great free movies continue in October, with a French psychological thriller – Les Diaboliques, and Emma Stone in her Oscar winning performance – Poor Things. All screenings are held on Wednesday evenings at 7pm at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center, 590 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 . Our full schedule for 2026 is posted on the BSFI website: www.borregospringsfilminstitute.org . Please check the website for the most up to date information. Here are the movies coming in October: Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 7pm – Les Diaboliques – 1955 – Not Rated – 1h 47m Les Diaboliques , released in the United States simply as Diabolique , is a landmark of psychological suspense and one of the most influential thrillers in the history of cinema. A French psychological horror thriller co-written and directed by Henri-Georges Clouzot, it stars Simone Signoret, Véra Clouzot, Paul Meurisse, and Charles Vanel, and is based on the 1952 novel Celle qui n'était plus by Pierre Boileau and Thomas Narcejac. Set in a decrepit French boarding school for boys, the film follows the wife (Véra Clouzot) and mistress (Signoret) of a sadistic, irredeemably cruel headmaster (Meurisse), who conspire to murder him and disguise his death as an accidental drowning. When his body vanishes from the school swimming pool, however, and a ragtag detective (Vanel) begins poking around, the two women start experiencing chilling evidence that their tormentor may not be dead after all. Clouzot had optioned the rights to the source novel immediately after finishing The Wages of Fear (1953), reading it through the night and securing the rights the next morning — in doing so, narrowly preventing Alfred Hitchcock from acquiring them. Les Diaboliques went on to have an enormous influence on Hitchcock and directly inspired his horror-classic, Psycho (1960). The film premiered in Paris in January 1955, where it ran exclusively for seventeen weeks, and in the United States its press screening was held on Halloween 1955. Critically, the film was a sensation, earning the reputation that has followed it ever since: the Criterion Collection describes it as "a heart-grabbing benchmark in horror filmmaking," calling it "an almost perfect movie about a very nearly perfect murder," and the National Board of Review named it among the best foreign films of 1955, calling it "a genuine thriller — a shocking, satisfying chunk of Grand Guignol psychological suspense." The film earned Clouzot the enduring sobriquet of "the French Hitchcock," though many have argued, with considerable justification, that the comparison undersells him. In French with English subtitles. Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 7pm – Poor Things – 2023 – Rated R – 2h 21m Poor Things is a wildly inventive, exhilaratingly strange, and visually ravishing work of absurdist cinema that stands as one of the defining films of recent years. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and written by Tony McNamara, based on the 1992 novel by Alasdair Gray, the film is an Ireland-UK-US co-production starring Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, Willem Dafoe, Ramy Youssef, Christopher Abbott, and Jerrod Carmichael. The story follows Bella Baxter (Stone), a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter (Dafoe), who, hungry for the worldliness she lacks, runs off with Duncan Wedderburn (Ruffalo), a slick and debauched lawyer, on a whirlwind adventure across the continents, growing ever more steadfast in her determination to stand for equality and liberation. The film is a Frankenstein story refracted through feminist philosophy, dark comedy, and steampunk visual extravagance, moving from black-and-white to lush, outlandish color as Bella's consciousness expands. Poor Things premiered at the 80th Venice International Film Festival in September 2023, where it won the Golden Lion, and was released theatrically in the United States by Searchlight Pictures in December 2023. It became Lanthimos's highest-grossing film, earning over $117 million worldwide on a budget of $35 million. Critically it was celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm, where the consensus describes it as "wildly imaginative and exhilaratingly over the top — a bizarre, brilliant tour de force for director Yorgos Lanthimos and star Emma Stone." The film was named one of the top ten films of 2023 by both the National Board of Review and the American Film Institute. At the awards ceremonies, it swept the season: it won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy and Best Actress for Stone, five BAFTAs including Best Actress in a Leading Role, and at the 96th Academy Awards received eleven nominations — second only to Oppenheimer — winning four: Best Actress for Stone, Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, and Best Makeup and Hairstyling. And looking forward, here are the scheduled movies coming in November and December: Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at 7pm – Babette’s Feast – 1987 – Rated G – 1h 42m Directed by Gabriel Axel and adapted from a short story by Isak Dinesen, the film tells the lovingly layered tale of a French housekeeper with a mysterious past who brings quiet revolution in the form of one exquisite meal to a circle of starkly pious villagers in late nineteenth-century Denmark. The title role of Babette is played by Stéphane Audran — with Birgitte Federspiel and Bodil Kjer as the two devout sisters into whose isolated lives Babette quietly, transformatively arrives. Babette’s Feast became the first Danish film ever to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Among its many admirers is Pope Francis, who named it his favorite film of all time. In French, Danish, and Swedish with English subtitles. Wednesday, November 18, 2026 at 7pm – The Daytrippers – 1997 – Rated R – 1h 27m Written and directed by Greg Mottola in his feature debut, the film follows the distraught Eliza (Hope Davis), who discovers a love letter written to her husband (Stanley Tucci) by an unknown woman and turns to her tight-knit Long Island family for help — sending the whole clan, including a strong-willed mom (Anne Meara), a taciturn dad (Pat McNamara), and a jaded sister (Parker Posey) with her pretentious boyfriend (Liev Schreiber) in tow, piling into a station wagon and heading into Manhattan to find out the truth. With its droll humor and bittersweet emotional heft, The Daytrippers announced the arrival of an unassumingly sharp-witted new talent on the 1990s indie film scene. Critics were largely enthusiastic: the Washington Post called it proof that "a great movie isn't a matter of dollars, so much as creativity," while Newsweek noted that "thanks to the superb cast and Mottola's deft touch, this modest-looking comedy proves quite memorable." Wednesday, December 2, 2026 at 7pm – Brief Encounter – 1945 – Not Rated – 1h 26m Directed by David Lean and adapted from Noël Coward's one-act play Still Life, the film stars Celia Johnson and Trevor Howard as two married strangers who fall into a fleeting, unconsummated love affair after a chance meeting at a railway station, told largely in flashback through Johnson's internal narration. Restrained, quietly devastating, and shot in stark black-and-white with Rachmaninoff's Second Piano Concerto as its emotional backbone, Brief Encounter became a landmark of British cinema for its portrayal of repressed longing and moral duty. It was widely praised on release — earning the Grand Prix at the first Cannes Film Festival in 1946 and Academy Award nominations for Lean's direction, Johnson's performance, and the screenplay — and it continues to be regarded by critics as one of the finest British films ever made, frequently topping "greatest films" lists for its emotional precision and understatement. Wednesday, December 16, 2026 at 7pm – The Holdovers – 2023 – Rated R – 2h 13m Directed by Alexander Payne, the film is set at a New England boarding school over the 1970 Christmas break, where curmudgeonly ancient history teacher Paul Hunham (Paul Giamatti) is stuck supervising the handful of students with nowhere else to go. As the group dwindles to just one, sharp-tongued troublemaker Angus Tully (Dominic Sessa), Paul and the school's head cook, Mary Lamb (Da'Vine Joy Randolph), who is grieving the loss of her son, form an unlikely bond over their shared isolation. Written by David Hemingson, The Holdovers was a major critical success, earning five Academy Award nominations including Best Picture, with Randolph winning Best Supporting Actress. Critics praised its warmth, wit, and old-fashioned craftsmanship, with many calling it one of the finest films of the year and a worthy heir to the character-driven dramas of the era it evokes. Wednesday, December 30, 2026 at 7pm – The Thin Man – 1934 – Not Rated – 1h 33m Directed by W.S. Van Dyke, the film stars William Powell and Myrna Loy as Nick and Nora Charles, a witty, hard-drinking former detective and his wealthy wife who are pulled back into sleuthing when an old acquaintance's inventor father goes missing amid a string of murders. Their affectionate, wisecracking rapport, as much as the mystery itself, became the heart of the film, setting the template for the screwball detective comedy. Based on Dashiell Hammett's novel of the same name, The Thin Man was a critical and commercial sensation on release, earning four Academy Award nominations including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Powell. It remains a landmark of 1930s Hollywood, celebrated for launching a beloved franchise and for Powell and Loy's chemistry, still considered one of the great screen partnerships in film history. This season’s BSFI movie screenings are being generously underwritten by the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF). See you at the movies!