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 • May 13, 2024

Photography Enthusiasts Gather for Borrego Springs Meetup

Borrego Springs Photo Meetup: Bringing Photographers Together

Photographers from across San Diego County and beyond recently convened in the stunning landscapes of Borrego Springs and Anza-Borrego State Park, orchestrated by Johnny Bradley, a prominent figure known as @manbehindalens and a key organizer within the Best Places to Photograph in San Diego Facebook group. This gathering not only spotlighted the tranquil beauty of the desert but also provided an opportunity for local businesses to connect with these creative visitors.

Local Businesses, Capture Your Chance

With a vibrant group like this, boasting over 5,500 members and each with their own following, the potential for local businesses is immense. If you're a local business in Borrego Springs interested in attracting these photography enthusiasts, please consider reaching out. Offering a special discount or promotion could significantly benefit both your business and the photographers, creating a symbiotic relationship that boosts community engagement and economic activity.

The Event in Retrospect

On April 27, 2024, this diverse group of photographers converged at Christmas Circle in Borrego Springs. The day was meticulously planned, allowing participants to explore and photograph some of the most scenic views offered by the region.

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Exploring Iconic Locations

The group set out early from Christmas Circle and headed towards Fonts Point, known for its breathtaking vistas of the badlands. After an enriching photography session there, they moved on to the stark yet beautiful Clark Dry Lake. Each location provided ample opportunities for participants to capture the unique landscapes and geological formations that make Anza-Borrego so unique.

Culinary and Social Wrap-Up

After a morning filled with collaborative learning and skill-sharing among photographers, some of the attendees gathered at Big Horn Burgers & Shakes to share their experiences and enjoy some local flavors.

The Significance of Borrego Springs and Anza-Borrego

For locals and visitors alike, Borrego Springs and its surrounding state park are not just about the stunning views but also about the experience of capturing the ever-changing light and shadows that dance across the desert landscape. This photography meet-up not only highlighted the natural beauty of the area but also underscored the community spirit among photographers who share a common passion.

Join Future Photography Meet-Ups: Everyone is welcome!

These meetups strengthen the photography community, offering learning and networking opportunities for all skill levels. Johnny Bradley's leadership highlights the vibrant photography scene in San Diego County, continually drawing attention to Borrego Springs as a favorite for photographers.

Interested in joining? Connect with the Best Places to Photograph in San Diego on Facebook and for specific event queries, email Johnny at manbehindalens@gmail.com and follow on Instagram at @manbehindalens.

Learn More About The Anza Borrego Desert

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SLOWJAMASTAN CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE WITH HISTORIC TERRITORIAL EXPANSION

By Robert Dobalina, Slowjamastan • November 12, 2026

World-Famous Micronation to Announce Five-Acre Expansion, Unveil Two New States During November 14 Jubilee The Republic of Slowjamastan is celebrating its fifth anniversary of independence with a historic announcement: the nation is expanding its territory by nearly 50 percent. On Saturday, November 14, from 1–3 PM, Slowjamastan will host its 5th Anniversary of Independence Jubilee, featuring the official announcement and ribbon-cutting ceremony for five newly acquired acres of land, one for each year of independence. The five additional acres, contiguous with the nation's existing 11-acre territory, bring Slowjamastan's total footprint to 16 acres. The public is invited to participate in the festivities, which include: • Historic ribbon-cutting celebrating Slowjamastan's territorial expansion. • Two new states officially commemorated within the nation. • Visa-free entry for the first 10,000 visitors. Crocs remain strictly prohibited. • Free Cactus Cooler while supplies last. • Meet and greet with The Sultan and the Chief of the Porder Batrol. "Five years. Five acres. Sixteen acres of freedom, questionable legislation, and absolutely no Crocs," said The Sultan. "Most countries celebrate anniversaries with cake. We bought more country." Founded in 2021, the Republic of Slowjamastan has attracted worldwide media attention for its unconventional approach to nation-building, complete with its own government, passports, border checkpoints, and national traditions. EVENT DETAILS What: Slowjamastan's 5th Anniversary of Independence Jubilee When: Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 1–3 PM Where: Republic of Slowjamastan, Imperial County, California. See slowjamastan.org/location Admission: Free Learn more about Slowjamastan: www.slowjamastan.org MEDIA CONTACT Robert Dobalina bob@slowjamastan.org