Extending over 900 square miles, elevations range from 6,000-foot peaks to land only 15 feet above sea level. A part of the California State Parks system, Anza-Borrego's mission is to protect and preserve this diverse land and its resources. Collecting natural or cultural resources is forbidden. While rainfall is generally less than seven inches per year, be prepared for wind, and temperatures over 100 degrees between April and November. Temperatures in higher elevations and after dark may be very cool.
Vegetation is sparse in most areas, and shade is hard to find.
Plan to carry your own water. Many desert plants are equipped with spines, so be ready with a comb and tweezers to remove them, should you get stuck. You will find a variety of wildlife at Anza-Borrego. The Peninsular Bighorn Sheep is the namesake of the park, but very elusive. Roadrunners, Cottontail Rabbits, Blacktailed Jackrabbits, Gambel's Quail, and a variety of reptiles will be more easily spotted.