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 • October 20, 2022

Growing Herbs in Borrego Springs: A Guide for Beginners

Transforming Borrego Springs' Desert Landscape into a Herb Haven

While Borrego Springs, nestled in Southern California's arid desert, might not be the first place you think of for herb gardening, it presents unique opportunities for the green-thumbed enthusiast. This guide dives into the essentials of cultivating a flourishing herb garden in this desert locale, from selecting the right varieties to understanding the nuances of desert soil and plant care.

Selecting Desert-Friendly Herbs

When choosing herbs for Borrego Springs, it's crucial to pick species that thrive in a desert climate.

Ideal choices include:

Cilantro
Sage
Rosemary
Thyme
Oregano
Desert lavender
And others like parsley, chives, mint, and dill

Soil Preparation: The Foundation of a Healthy Garden

The key to a successful herb garden in Borrego Springs lies in soil preparation. Enriching the soil with organic matter, such as compost, is essential. This not only improves soil structure but also enhances its moisture retention capabilities. Ensure your herbs are planted in a location that enjoys abundant sunlight.

Nurturing Your Herbs in the Desert

Caring for herbs in Borrego Springs demands particular attention, especially during the scorching summer months. Regular watering is crucial, and pruning is necessary to promote bushier and healthier growth.

Delightful Herb-Infused Recipes

Transform your homegrown herbs into culinary delights with these simple recipes:

Cilantro Lime Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts in a mix of chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper for a zesty flavor.
Sage and Rosemary Roasted Potatoes: Combine potato wedges with olive oil, chopped sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and roast to perfection.
Thyme and Oregano Grilled Vegetables: Grill bell peppers and zucchinis seasoned with olive oil, chopped thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper for a savory side dish.

Expert Gardening Advice for Borrego Springs

For optimal results, consult with local botanical experts or gardening centers. They can offer tailored advice for growing herbs in Borrego Springs' unique environment. Additionally, considering the area's water usage, opting for drought-tolerant herbs is advisable.

Final Thoughts

Herb gardening in Borrego Springs is not only feasible but also rewarding. With the right selection of herbs, proper soil preparation, and consistent care, your desert garden can become a bountiful source of fresh flavors and aromas, perfect for enhancing your culinary creations.

Borrego Springs Winter Blooms

By Shandel Sutherland • December 16, 2025

Winter brings early wildflower blooms to Borrego Springs and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Hike, golf, explore art galleries, farmers markets, and dark skies—before spring crowds.

Exploring California's Low Desert: Borrego Springs

Borrego Springs: A Low Desert Geotourism Destination

By Shandel Sutherland • April 6, 2024

Borrego Springs' low elevation means it gets pretty hot, with summer temperatures often hitting 90°F (32°C) or more. This warm climate is a big part of what defines a low desert area. For visitors, this means experiencing the desert heat up close, which is a key part of its appeal.