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 • March 19, 2024

Visit Borrego Springs: 10 Must-Do Activities

Discover Borrego Springs: 10 Must-Do Activities

Borrego Springs, nestled in the Anza-Borrego Desert, is a treasure trove of natural wonders, offering an array of activities for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape.

Here are 10 activities that promise an unforgettable experience in this desert paradise:

1. Stargazing: As California's first International Dark Sky Community, Borrego Springs offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. Embark on a self guided night sky tour to gaze at the stars through powerful telescopes and learn about the cosmos.

2. Poolside Relaxation in Borrego Springs: Escape the desert sun and indulge in some poolside relaxation at some of Borrego Springs' finest resorts. Each offers a unique ambiance to cool off and unwind:

La Casa del Zorro Resort:A desert retreat known for its elegance and serenity, providing an idyllic setting for a leisurely day by the pool.

Borrego Springs Resort :This resort combines stunning desert landscapes with luxurious amenities, including a refreshing pool area perfect for soaking in the sun and taking a dip.

The Palms at Indian Head : Known for its historic charm and intimate atmosphere, The Palms offers a tranquil pool experience amidst the rugged beauty of the desert.

Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort: Guests can cool off in the pool and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of a saloon-style dining experience, all while being surrounded by the natural wonders of the desert landscape.

3. Marvel at Font's Point: Known as "California's Grand Canyon," Font's Point provides awe-inspiring views of the Borrego Badlands. A 4x4 (at minimum AWD) vehicle is recommended to navigate the terrain to this breathtaking overlook.

4. Borrego Art Institute: Discover the vibrant Borrego Art Institute and ArtPark in Borrego Springs, a hub for creativity and sustainable living. This unique space blends art with nature, offering community gardens, orchards, and eco-friendly practices. For a closer look, visit Borrego Art Institute and ArtPark.

5. Trek to Borrego Palm Canyon: Follow the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail to a stunning palm oasis, showcasing the desert's diverse ecosystem on this self-guided nature trail.

6. Explore Coyote Canyon: Set out into Coyote Canyon, where the natural beauty of Borrego Springs unfolds. Home to the iconic peninsular bighorn sheep, it's a paradise for hikers, bikers and wildlife enthusiasts.

7. Golf at Rams Hill: Play a round at the Rams Hill Golf Club, an award-winning course known for its sustainable design and stunning desert vistas.

8. Hike the Slot Canyon: Delve into the depths of a slot canyon within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. This awe-inspiring hike takes you through narrow passages and towering cliffs, offering a unique perspective on the desert's geological wonders.

9. Ricardo Breceda's Metal Sculptures :A testament to the creative collaboration between the artist and philanthropist Dennis Avery, who commissioned these awe-inspiring pieces. Scattered across the town, these sculptures bring to life an array of prehistoric creatures and mythical beings, offering visitors a unique and immersive outdoor gallery experience that seamlessly blends art, history, and nature

10. Dry Camp Under the Stars: Experience the ultimate desert camping at Desert Bungalows, where you can stay in refurbished vintage trailers. This unique accommodation option offers a cozy retreat under the starlit sky, blending rustic charm with modern comforts for an unforgettable desert night.

Embrace the Desert Adventure

As you embark on your journey through Borrego Springs, each of these ten activities offers a unique window into the heart of this desert oasis. From the tranquil beauty of the ArtPark to the historic charm of local resorts, Borrego Springs invites you to immerse yourself in its rich tapestry of natural wonders, artistic expressions, and leisurely pursuits.

For more ideas and detailed information on making the most of your visit, explore Things to Do in Borrego Springs, where the desert awaits to share its timeless stories and hidden treasures with you.

Email us if you have suggestions for this list!

Things To Do In Borrego Springs

Learn More About Borrego Springs and Anza Borrego Desert

Borrego Springs Honors Veterans at Christmas Circle

By Andrea McKenna • November 12, 2026

American Legion Post 853 hosted Borrego Springs’ Veterans Day ceremony on Wednesday, November 11, at the Christmas Circle Community Park bandstand.

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

Community Resource Center Invites Everyone to Annual Friend-Raiser Open House

By Andrea McKenna • November 11, 2026

Food, friends, entertainment and community spirit come together Friday, November 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center (CRC) in The Mall. The Borrego Springs Community Resource Center is opening its doors for its annual Friend-Raiser Open House, inviting residents, visitors and newcomers to stop by, meet some friendly faces and learn more about the organization. The CRC is an important part of the Borrego Springs community, providing food assistance, educational opportunities and programs that bring people together. From its food bank to citizenship classes, Spanish lessons, computer literacy, exercise and Ballet Folklórico, the center offers resources and activities for people of all ages. The Friend-Raiser is an opportunity to see what the CRC is all about, meet the people behind its programs and connect with neighbors in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy food, wine and presentations featuring Las Flores del Desierto Ballet Folklórico , along with local dogs training for American Kennel Club (AKC) Rally Obedience titles. Whether you're a longtime supporter, new to Borrego Springs or simply curious about what the CRC offers, everyone is welcome to come by. Stop in, say hello, meet some friendly faces and celebrate the community connections that make Borrego Springs special! Event Details Friend-Raiser Open House Friday, November 13, 2026 5–8 p.m. Community Resource Center (CRC) Located in The Mall, Borrego Springs All are welcome!

SAVE THE DATE!: ARTTALK with artist ARhAyas PSonn AllureA

By Elizabeth Rodriquez • November 11, 2026

Join the artist ARhAyas PSonn AllureA for ARTTALK on Saturday, November 21 at 3pm at The Gallery at The Palms to converse about his assemblage collages relating to the erasure of Goddess wisdom and its metamorphosis to time present. Refreshments will be served for your enjoyment. The Gallery at The Palms is located at 2220 Hoberg Road, Borrego Springs, Ca. 92004

OpiCure Ascent to Freedom ride: Uniting community to honor recovery

By OpiCure Foundation • November 10, 2026

This is more than a bike ride. The OpiCure Ascent to Freedom Ride in Borrego Springs takes place Saturday, November 21, and brings together riders, friends, families, and the recovery community for a full day of connection and celebration, in association with Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. Join the ride through the desert, jump into the pickleball tournament (all skill levels welcome), and enjoy meals provided for the riders as we come together to mark sobriety, share stories, and support one another. Whether you’re riding, playing, volunteering, or simply showing up, you’re part of this. Come be part of something bigger than any single activity — come be part of the Ascent to Freedom. “We wanted this to be a fun day that everyone can enjoy. Come meet the Opicure Community and grow with us,” says OpiCure Foundation President Cullen Easter. In the heart of the Anza-Borrego Desert, this inaugural OpiCure event brings together people in recovery, their families, and the cycling community to celebrate sobriety, share stories of strength, and raise awareness about the opioid crisis. "By turning the simple act of riding into a collective ascent toward freedom, it shows that recovery is possible, community heals, and every pedal stroke can move us closer to a life beyond addiction," says Cullen. "The OpiCure Ascent to Freedom is about community, movement, and celebrating recovery in every form." OpiCure Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Non Profit Foundation focused on addressing opioid-related addiction and deaths. More information on the event is available at opicureride.com .