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.

Borrego Springs Local • February 19, 2023

Discover the Beauty of the Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is known for its stunning wildflowers that bloom each spring. One of the best places to see these colorful blooms is the Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area. Located in the heart of the park, this area offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the desert in bloom. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit:

Getting to the Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area

To reach the Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area, visitors should take the S-22 east from Borrego Springs and turn left onto DiGiorgio Road. Follow this road for about 3 miles until you reach the entrance to Coyote Canyon. The viewing area is located about 2 miles up the canyon.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. The bloom typically occurs from late February to early April, but the exact timing can vary from year to year depending on weather conditions. Visitors should check the park’s website or call the park office to get updates on the bloom status before planning their visit.

What to See and Do

The Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to see and do:

Take a Hike – The area offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the wildflowers. The Desert Gardens Trail and the Smoke Tree Canyon Trail are two popular options.
Go on a Wildflower Walk – The park offers guided wildflower walks during the bloom season. These walks are led by knowledgeable rangers who can help visitors identify different species of wildflowers.
Enjoy a Picnic – There are several picnic areas located throughout the Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area. Visitors can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful scenery while they eat.
Take Photographs – The Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area is a popular spot for photographers, who come here to capture the stunning blooms. Visitors should bring their cameras and take plenty of photos to remember their visit.

Tips for Visitors

Here are some tips to help visitors make the most of their trip to the Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area:

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothing.
Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the delicate wildflowers.
Respect the park’s wildlife and natural resources.
Leave no trace – pack out all trash and litter.

GPS Location: 33.2821° N, 116.2375° W

The Coyote Canyon Wildflower Viewing Area is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. With its stunning wildflowers, scenic hiking trails, and opportunities for photography and picnicking, this area has something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit during the spring bloom season and experience the beauty of the desert in a whole new way.

How To Be Prepared

Check ABDNHA Wildflower Current updates and map website
Join Borrego Blooms Facebook Group
Like and Follow Anza Borrego Foundation Facebook page
Sign up for ABF’s email updates to receive communication about the bloom.
Check Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s website for road conditions, safety tips, and best routes when traveling to the Park or call the Visitor Center at 760-767-4205.
Call the Wildflower Hotline: (760) 767-4684
Visit the State Park Store for free information, wildflower brochures, books, and all your safe needs for exploring the desert. (we consider this your BEST way to get the most up to date information and personable tips about visiting both Borrego Springs and Anza Borrego State Park) All purchases are considered a contribution.

Wildflower Bloom in Anza-Borrego State Park

Anza-Borrego State Park in California is known for their spectacular wildflower blooms. The blooming season usually lasts between late fall and spring and offers visitors a beautiful display of desert wildflowers.