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 • December 27, 2023

The Best Drone-Flying Locations in San Diego County

Aerial Wonders of Southern California's Drone-Friendly Havens

Welcome to the world of drone flying in sunny San Diego and its enchanting surroundings! Whether you're a seasoned drone pilot or just starting out, the area's diverse landscapes offer the perfect canvas for your aerial escapades. From the serene waters of San Vicente Reservoir to the iconic Oceanside Pier, each location promises a unique flying experience. And let's not forget the Drone Zone Sanctuary in Borrego Springs, a dedicated haven for drone enthusiasts.

Join us as we explore these spectacular spots, ideal for capturing breathtaking footage and enjoying the thrill of drone flying. Of course we are slightly partial to the Drone Zone Sanctuary in Borrego Springs.

Top Drone Flying Sites from Coronado Cays to Borrego Springs

San Diego and its neighboring areas, including Borrego Springs' Drone Zone Sanctuary, provide a plethora of fantastic drone-flying locations.

Here's a glimpse into some of these scenic spots:

Coronado Cays Park: This park is a picturesque location for drone enthusiasts, boasting cinematic sunsets and a charming local marina.
San Vicente Reservoir: With its vast waters and surrounding mountains, the reservoir in Lakeside is a haven for capturing stunning aerial footage.
El Capitan Reservoir Recreation Area: This area in El Cajon offers wide-open spaces and a mountainous backdrop, perfect for nature exploration.
Oceanside Pier: Extending into the ocean, this historical pier provides endless ocean views, making it a great spot for scenic drone photography.
Johnson Field (AMA Field): Managed by the Palomar RC Flyers Club in Fallbrook, this field is equipped with a runway and helipad area, ideal for drone flying amidst a wooded landscape.
Borrego Springs Drone Zone Sanctuary: This 40-acre preserve in the Anza-Borrego Desert is a specially designed space for drone pilots to practice and connect with other enthusiasts.

Each site offers unique opportunities for drone flying, from capturing nature's beauty to practicing in dedicated spaces. Drone pilots in San Diego and Borrego Springs have a range of choices to explore their passion.