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 • August 7, 2024

Pegleg Smith Monument: A Must-See Near Borrego Springs

Pegleg Smith Monument Sign on the Left: Erected by Harry Oliver in 1948, this sign commemorates the legendary tales of Pegleg Smith and his lost desert gold. The sign reads: "Let those who seek Peg Leg's gold add ten rocks to this pile."

Desert Steve's Sign on the Right: Installed in 1949 by Desert Steve Ragsdale, this sign includes a mailbox for taking and leaving treasures, inviting visitors to engage with the Pegleg Smith legend.

The Legend of Pegleg Smith

Thomas L. Smith, better known as Pegleg Smith, was a 19th-century mountain man, prospector, and storyteller. Born in 1801, he earned his nickname after losing a leg around 1827 during a fur trapping expedition. Pegleg became infamous for his tales of discovering a rich vein of gold-covered black rocks in the California desert, though he never revealed the exact location. This lost gold mine has since become a legend, sparking the imaginations and adventures of countless treasure seekers.

History of the Monument

The Pegleg Smith Monument was established in 1948 by artist and storyteller Harry Oliver. Oliver's sign encouraged visitors to add rocks to the monument, creating a growing pile of stones symbolizing good luck for those hoping to find Pegleg's legendary gold. In 1949, Desert Steve Ragsdale added a second sign with a mailbox for taking and leaving treasures, inviting visitors to engage with the Pegleg Smith legend. The monument historically hosted the annual Pegleg Smith Liars Contest, where participants shared tall tales in honor of Pegleg's storytelling legacy.

The contest is now held at American Legion Post 853.

The Pegleg Smith Historic Marker was erected in 1960 by California State Park Commission in cooperation with Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce. (Marker Number 750.)

Historical Marker

In addition to the signs, there is a historical marker established in 1960 by the California State Park Commission in cooperation with the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce. This marker, located at 33° 17.773′ N, 116° 17.884′ W in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, reads:

"Thomas L. Smith, better known as 'Peg Leg' Smith, 1801-1866, was a mountain man, prospector, and spinner of tall tales. Legends regarding his lost mine have grown through the years. Countless people have searched the desert looking for its fabulous wealth. The gold mine could be within a few miles of this monument."

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Harry Oliver Home In Borrego Springs

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Why Visit?

Historical Insight: The monument offers a glimpse into the rich history and lore of Borrego Springs, providing context to the tales that have shaped the region.

Unique Experience: The monument and its surrounding events, like the Pegleg Smith Liars Contest, offer a distinctive cultural experience. Toss 10 rocks into the pile to make the spirit of Harry Oliver pleased.

Scenic Location: The desert landscape surrounding the monument is perfect for photography and outdoor exploration, especially during the desert bloom season.

Plan Your Visit

Address: 2356-2408 Henderson Canyon Rd, Borrego Springs, CA 92004

Whether you're intrigued by the history, captivated by the legend, or simply looking for an interesting stop on your desert adventure, the Pegleg Smith Monument is a must-see. Plan your trip to Borrego Springs and immerse yourself in the tale of Pegleg Smith and the beauty of the California desert.

Learn More: www.atlasobscura.com