Spring is here! Thanks to all the heavy rainfall Southern California has received, there are fields of wildflowers scattered all over! Here are the top 5 places for you to explore the Superbloom:

Anza Borrego State Park

There are more wonders in this desert than anyone could see in a lifetime, including wildflowers, which usually start blooming in force in late February or early March. Varieties of cactus bloom at all elevations but at different times, and for wildflower buffs they are the real prize.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is open year-round. There are few facilities within the park’s approximately 800,000 acres, making Joshua Tree a true desert wilderness just a few hours outside of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Phoenix. About 2.8 million visitors come to the park each year to enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, photography, rock climbing, and simply enjoying the serene desert scenery. The busy season in Joshua Tree runs from October through May.

Walker Canyon, Lake Elsinore 

Located in Lake Elsinore, carpets of poppies are blooming all over the valley! The 2019 Super Bloom in Walker Canyon is a natural phenomenon drawing visitors from all over the world demonstrating the extreme beauty of Lake Elsinore.

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

Each spring, the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve comes alive with the seasonal surprises of the Mojave Desert Grassland habitat.  The duration and intensity of colors and scents vary from year to year.  The wildflower season generally lasts from as early as mid-February through May, with a variety of wildflowers creating a mosaic of color that changes daily.

Wildwood Park, Thousand Oaks

People of all ages frequent Wildwood Park for a variety of outdoor activities such as nature hikes, biking, horseback riding, summer day camps, and interpretive programs. There are 14 trails covering 17 miles.  There are three water fountains in the park; however, hikers are encouraged to bring water. Restrooms are located at the bottom of the canyon only. In addition, there are several benches located throughout the park, mostly along the trails.

Safety and Kindness Tips

1. If you’re traveling to the desert/rural areas, make sure you have enough water, snacks, sturdy closed-toe shoes, sunblock and maps as some parks don’t have great wifi.
2. Some parks don’t allow pets, plan accordingly by contacting them ahead of time.
3. Stay on trails
4. Do not cross into areas marked off limits.
5. Do not walk on already trampled blooms, this could permanently kill them.
6. Be kind and patient with others. Everyone wants to see the blooms!