Anza-Borrego Desert State Park often sees breathtaking blooms earlier in the year—if the conditions are right. And this year is no different as fresh blooms are already arriving in the park.
This SoCal park is one of the best places in the world to see wildflowers with golden landscapes covered in a kaleidoscope of purple verbena, yellow desert sunflowers, white evening primroses, and other unique plant species. Thanks to all the rainfall California has experienced this year, early March is already seeing stunning flora. Below you’ll find everything you need to know before you go.
When is the best time to see the wild blooms?
From March to mid-April, the desert is often blanketed with a rainbow of colors thanks to the wildflower blooms. However, every year brings different weather and predicting when the seeds will sprout isn’t an exact science. Your best bet is to follow the latest news from the park or research center’s platforms and track relevant hashtags of respective research centers.
Where is the best view of the Anza-Borrego desert wildflowers?
Driving along Borrego Springs Road is a good place to start for a breathtaking glimpse of the wildflowers that have made Anza-Borrego Desert State Park famous. The iconic stretch of road seems to split the flat, arid landscapes leading up to the rugged mountains in the distance. Henderson Canyon, accessed from Borrego Springs, is another great place to search for fleeting beauties.
Right now, fresh new blooms are sprouting in the heart of “Borrego Springs along Henderson Canyon Road, the lower sandy dune portions of Coyote Canyon, and in the southern portion of the state park along Highway S2 southeast of Agua Caliente County Park.” Additionally, early blooms like primrose, phacelia, and wooly sunflower are popping up in areas “near June Wash moving northeast toward Fish Creek and Arroyo Tapiado.”
While these vibrant floral displays are fleeting, the desert holds many surprises with plenty of nature and more permanent features to check out. That includes endless hiking trails to discover. Margarita Peak, Coyote Canyon, and Fonts Point are also notable parts that deserve a stopover.
Be sure to check out the park’s website here or head to the visitor center for updates on the wildflower bloom, safety alerts, and weather information before setting off on your journey!