The visitor center is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM from October 1 to May 31, and on weekends and holidays only from June 1 to September 30. The parking lot is open from 7 AM to 7 PM year-round.
The entrance fee at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is $10 per vehicle per day. Senior day use is $9, and disabled day use is $5 with a State Parks Disabled Discount Pass.(‘
From San Diego: I-8 E → Hwy S-2 N → Hwy 78 E to Borrego Springs. From L.A.: I-10 E → Hwy 86 S → Hwy 78 E. From Palm Springs: Hwy 111 S → I-10 E → Hwy 86 S → Hwy 78 E into Borrego Springs. Routes lead into different areas of the park based on your destination.
At Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the Visitor Center parking lot is at the west end of Palm Canyon Drive. Day-use parking fees are $10 per vehicle. Borrego Palm Canyon Trail and Hellhole Canyon Trail parking lots are open sunrise to sunset with a $10 fee. RV parking with full hookups is available at Borrego Palm Canyon Campground for $45 per night. Overnight parking is allowed for campers, but not for day-use vehicles. Motorcycles are subject to the same day-use fees as cars.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Located less than two hours from San Diego, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is California’s largest state park and a wonderland of stark desert beauty. With more than 600,000 acres of mountains, slot canyons, and wildflower fields, it’s a haven for off-roaders, hikers, stargazers, and anyone looking to unplug and connect with the rhythms of the desert. Whether spotting bighorn sheep, exploring the badlands, or photographing spring’s legendary wildflower blooms, this Southern California treasure offers adventure and serenity in equal measure.
- Area (mi²)
- 914
- Annual visitors
- 1 000 000
- Established year
- 1932
Top 3 Facts about Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
The Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves feature the world’s most extensive mud cave system, with caves stretching up to 1,000 feet in length and 80 feet in height, formed about five million years ago through erosion caused by heavy rainfall.
One of the best stargazing destinations in the U.S. thanks to minimal light pollution and vast desert skies.
The park ranges in elevation from below sea level to over 6,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates and ecosystems.
Family programs
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Review trail conditions and check for road closures before visiting. Super bloom season can bring crowds—book early if visiting in spring.
Pack Appropriately
Dress in lightweight layers; bring sun protection, hats, sturdy hiking shoes, and at least one gallon of water per person per day.
Respect Wildlife
Stay on trails, never approach wildlife, and do not remove natural features. Respect the fragile desert ecosystem.
Stay Informed
Monitor California State Parks’ site for weather alerts, road advisories, bloom updates, and park announcements.
Seasons
Spring is arguably the best time to visit Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The weather is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. This season is famous for the potential “super blooms,” where the desert floor transforms into a vibrant carpet of wildflowers, attracting visitors from all over. The blooms depend on winter rainfall, so they can be unpredictable, but even in less spectacular years, springtime offers a variety of colorful flora and active wildlife.
Summer in Anza-Borrego is extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This intense heat makes daytime activities challenging and potentially dangerous due to the risk of dehydration and heatstroke. However, for those who can handle the heat, summer nights offer warm, clear skies perfect for stargazing. Early morning or evening hikes can also be enjoyable, but visitors should always carry plenty of water and be prepared for the harsh conditions.
Fall is a pleasant time to visit Anza-Borrego as the temperatures begin to cool down from the summer highs, ranging from the mid-80s to the low 100s Fahrenheit in early fall and becoming more moderate as the season progresses. The park is less crowded compared to spring, offering a quieter experience. Fall is an excellent time for hiking, exploring the park’s geological features, and enjoying the changing colors of the desert flora as they prepare for the cooler winter months.
Winter brings cooler weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit and chilly nights that can drop to freezing. This season is ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities without the extreme heat. Winter rains can lead to the early growth of wildflowers, setting the stage for the spring bloom. The holiday season sees an uptick in visitors, but overall, the park is less crowded, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Anza-Borrego Desert State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The drive from San Diego takes approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes, covering a distance of about 87 miles. The fastest route involves taking I-15 N and then various local highways. The drive offers scenic views of rolling landscapes and vistas.
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The Slot Trail is a great option for kids, offering a 2.3-mile loop through a slot canyon with unique badlands views and an exciting adventure. It is recommended to start early to avoid crowds and heat. This trail is particularly fun and educational, showcasing the park’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
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Yes, you must keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under your control at all times. Dogs are not allowed on trails or in wilderness areas but can be in campgrounds and on dirt roads.
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There is a $10 day-use parking fee per vehicle, collected on Fridays through Sundays and holidays. This fee is valid for the entire park. The only exception is Borrego Palm Canyon Campground, where the fee is $8.
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Hike the Slot Canyon or the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail for stunning desert views. Explore the Badlands via the Erosion Road Driving Tour, which includes a stop at Font’s Point for sweeping views, but be sure to use a 4WD vehicle. In the evening, go stargazing, as the park has been an International Dark Sky Park since 2018 and offers Night Sky programs from November through April.
