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 2, 2023

The Abandoned Chevron Gas Station: Borrego Springs’ Rich History

Our Very Own Relic!

Nestled in the heart of Southern California’s Anza-Borrego Desert lies a unique and intriguing site that has piqued the curiosity of tourists and history enthusiasts alike – the abandoned Chevron gas station at the corner of Yaqui Pass and Borrego Springs Rd. This seemingly forsaken building holds a wealth of history, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the Borrego Springs community.

Frank Osborne and the Early Days:

In 1930, Frank Osborne built a small store and trailer camp on his homestead near what is now the “abandoned” (It is owned by someone who cares about the history) building on the northwest corner of Yaqui Pass and Borrego Springs roads. He occasionally sold gasoline, catering to the needs of the local community. Osborne remained in the valley until around 1936. The Yaqui Pass Road was built in 1934-35 to connect with the new state highway through the Narrows. It was paved by the military during World War II, making it the first paved road in the valley.

Noel Crickmer and the Desert Lodge:

In 1939, across from Osborne’s store, Noel Crickmer opened the valley’s first hotel, the Desert Lodge. The hotel has since been greatly expanded and now operates as La Casa del Zorro, a popular resort in the area. Crickmer’s original adobe still forms part of the lobby, providing a glimpse into the rich history of the Borrego Springs community.

Making the gas station a popular stop before heading out of town and for supplies while in town.

The Chevron Station and Norri Bakko:

The old Chevron gas station served as both a real estate office and a community hub, run by Norri Bakko. Bakko was deeply involved in the community, being a member of the Lions Club and even serving as Honorary Mayor of Borrego Springs from 1987-1988. This period in history is filled with fascinating anecdotes and cherished memories, such as those shared by Denny Duvall. Duvall fondly recalls helping travelers with a leaking radiator by suggesting they use black pepper, a tip that worked like a charm! Denny and his wife worked at the shop while Norri sold insurance. The property was thoughtfully designed with a shop, mechanic bays, and a small living area, catering to various needs of the community and travelers alike.

The Current State and Future of the Gas Station:

Regrettably, time has left the once-vibrant Chevron station in a state of disrepair. Vandals have marred its walls with graffiti and broken its windows. However, the dilapidated appearance has drawn the curiosity of tourists and locals, sparking a renewed interest in the gas station’s history and its potential for restoration.

The current owner, has a deep-rooted connection with the property and has taken it upon himself to clean up the contamination caused by a fuel release. Despite the county’s desire to demolish the structure, Goodwin’s attachment to the building and understanding of its historical significance have kept it standing.

Conclusion:

The abandoned Chevron gas station at the corner of Yaqui Pass and Borrego Springs Rd serves as a symbol of the resilience, determination, and community spirit that has shaped the Borrego Springs community. From Norri Bakko’s real estate office to Frank Osborne’s store and trailer camp, and the development of the Yaqui Pass Road, this site has borne witness to the area’s rich history. As efforts are made to restore this historic treasure, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our past for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

Update we went to look at it recently and noticed someone boarded it up, its probably for the best…Let’s hurry up and make this a historic monument..Officially.