Top Three Parks to See the California Super Bloom

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Every few years, above-average rainfall in California will trigger a natural phenomenon known as a ‘super bloom.’ This particular phenomenon can’t be described as anything less than an explosion of color from hundreds of thousands of wildflowers blooming simultaneously. Most recently, a super bloom occurred in 2019, drawing visitors from all over the globe!

This winter has undoubtedly been one of the wettest in the last five years. As of early March, 2023, the average daily rainfall in downtown San Francisco has reached 146% of normal levels and 202% in South Lake Tahoe. Bishop, just outside of Death Valley, is at 261%, and downtown Los Angeles is at 176%. Source

Following this exceptionally wet winter experienced throughout the West, experts predict that spring will be one for the books! Wildflowers will start to bloom as early as February and can be seen well into June and July, but peak bloom is from March to April. If you’re looking to witness this breathtaking display, traveling in a campervan is easily the best option for transportation and lodging, giving you the freedom to go wherever the bloom is at its zenith. Have you ever seen a sunrise over an endless field of flowers?

Carrizo Plain National Monument

Distance from Las Vegas Office: 355 Miles
Distance from San Francisco Office: 286 Miles

Located in central California, the Carrizo Plain National Monument is known for its expansive grasslands is close enough to LA to be a day trip, but far enough away so that you can still “hear the silence”. It stretches more than 250,000 acres and is the largest native grassland still remaining in California with the largest concentration endangered and threatened wildlife in the state. Camping in our pop-top classic, plus, or high-roof Mercedes Sprinter is a great way to experience the park’s natural beauty while staying comfortable and close to the action, not to mention being fully contained, allowing you to choose between conventional campsites or something off the beaten path.

Anza Borrego State Park

Distance from Las Vegas Office: 312 Miles
Distance from San Francisco Office: 532 Miles

Another popular destination to witness the super bloom is California’s largest state park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. This park is located in southern California and is known for its vast stretches of wildflowers during a super bloom. With over 500 miles of dirt roads, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and find the best views. Our custom-built Moterra Campervans include heat, cooking, solar power, memory foam bedding, and flexibility. This allows an unparalleled opportunity to those who want to stay within the park and effortlessly experience the magic of sunrise and sunset in these painted landscapes.

Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Las Vegas Office: 202 Miles
Distance from San Francisco Office: 498 Miles

Last but definitely not least, Joshua Tree National Park is also a fantastic location to witness a super bloom. With its unique rock formations and desert landscape, the park is transformed into a stunning display of wildflowers during this special period. The best time to visit is typically in March or April, but the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions. In addition to the myriad of daytime activities in this park, it also happens to have some of the clearest night skies in the country! Don’t forget to look up!

Witnessing the California super bloom is an unforgettable experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Whether you choose to visit Death Valley National Park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Joshua Tree National Park, or all three, you’re sure to be amazed by the breathtaking display of wildflowers that nature has to offer. Looking for more information on traveling in California, or the Desert Southwest this spring? Drop a message in our live chat to receive a free copy of our Insiders’ Guides. There you will find information on our favorite campsites, hikes, activities, and more!