Borrego Sun - Since 1949

As spring approaches, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (ABDSP) and Anza-Borrego Foundation (ABF) welcomes visitors from around the world to enjoy the wonder of the wildflower bloom season by following proper etiquette and safety measures when exploring the Park. As California’s largest state park, spanning over 650,000 acres, ABDSP expects an influx of visitors eager to witness the annual scene.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park boasts an array of ecosystems and landscapes, making it one of California’s most diverse and captivating natural landscapes. With record rainfall and warmer temperatures, we expect an above average wildflower bloom. We invite visitors to experience the delicate resources of the desert while practicing wildflower etiquette and desert safety.

“Anza-Borrego’s spring wildflower bloom is a special time of year, attracting visitors from across the globe,” said Bri Fordem, Executive Director of Anza-Borrego Foundation. “By practicing responsible stewardship and embracing desert safety, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the magic of the bloom while safeguarding the Park’s delicate ecosystem.”

“Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, particularly during the spring wildflower season,” said State Parks Colorado Desert District Superintendent, Ray Lennox. “We encourage visitors to experience the Park responsibly, respecting the environment and fellow visitors alike.”

Wildflower Etiquette:

Don’t Doom the Bloom: Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling on delicate wildflowers. The beauty of the bloom is best appreciated from a respectful distance.

Leave No Trace: Help preserve the natural habitat by refraining from picking flowers or disturbing plants and wildlife. Leave the desert as you found it and please carry out your trash.

Follow Park Rules: Drone use is prohibited, and dogs must be on a 6’ leash at all times and are only allowed on roads.

Desert Safety Tips:

Check the Weather: Temperatures can vary drastically during the day. Avoid canyons if there is a chance of rain; flash flooding can happen rapidly.

Stay Hydrated: Carry ample water, especially during warmer weather. Dehydration can occur quickly in the dry desert environment.

Protect Yourself: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing to shield yourself from the sun’s intense rays.

Watch for Wildlife: Including snakes and insects, while exploring the desert landscape. Give animals plenty of space and avoid disturbing their natural behaviors.

Know Your Vehicle: Most dirt roads in the park require high clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles. Check road conditions here. We encourage you to travel with a second vehicle when driving on dirt roads.

Safety: Cell phone coverage is spotty or nonexistent. Bring a first aid kit and become familiar with it. Leave an itinerary of your trip with a family member or friend and expected return date.

Where to go for Information:

For up-to-date information on the spring wildflower bloom and park updates, visit the official websites of Anza-Borrego Foundation (www.anzaborrego.org) and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (parks.ca.gov/anzaborrego).

Additionally, visitors can call the Wildflower Hotline at 760-767-4684 for the latest bloom reports and recommendations. To learn about wildflower centric events and programs, including plant walks every Friday, a wildflower retreat, and wildflower driving tours, visit https://theabf.org/experience-anza-borrego/events/.

Prepare for Crowds:

Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and prepare for increased traffic and limited parking. To support decreased traffic congestion, please consider using the downloadable map on ABF website and go directly to bloom areas. Consider visiting during the week and exploring the Southern end of the Park and other lesser-known areas. Check the Department of Transportation for any road closures here.

For more information about the spring wildflower bloom and visiting Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, please visit the official websites or contact the provided hotline.