California Poppy
STORY BY: Veronica Hill
Summary: Learn more about the California poppy at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve near Lancaster.
Location: Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve; 15101 Lancaster Road, Lancaster, CA; Wildflower Hotline: (661) 724-1180
Pros: Beautiful walking trails, nice interpretive center
Cons: Watch out for rattlers!
Every spring, the cheerful California Poppy paints the barren desert with brilliant hues of orange and gold.
And the best place to view the delicate and beautiful California poppies is at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve.
Located near Lancaster in the Mojave Desert, the California poppy reserve is considered the best viewing area for wild poppies in the state. Here, you can pack a picnic and hike more than eight miles of trails that wind through fragrant wildflower-scented hills.
When you arrive, check out the Interpretive Center, where you can watch a video and enjoy the natural history displays. You can also purchase some souvenir California poppy seeds in the gift shop.
Peak bloom for the California poppy flower is between March and May, but April is usually the best time to visit. Along the trails, you'll spot native wildflowers like red maids, pygmy lupine and wild parsley. The California poppy flowers can be found along North and South Poppy Loop trails.
During peak season, the park offers free guided tours of the reserve at 11 a.m. weekdays and 10 and 2 p.m. weekends. You can also arrange for a private tour with groups of 15 or more.
Remember, it's against the law to pick or destroy wildflowers in the park, so be respectful.
These Mojave Desert grasslands are also home to a wide range of desert animals, from the coyote and bobcat, to kangaroo rat and red-tailed hawk. Rattlesnakes are also very common here at the reserve, so be extremely careful and watch your step. If you see a snake, slowly walk away.
Though this is an outdoor venue, dogs are not permitted in the park. Service dogs should be dressed in uniform to avoid confusion.
The High Desert is a windy place, so be sure to check weather conditions before making the trek. And if you can, time your visit for the annual California Poppy Festival, held each April in Lancaster City Park. It's a nice place to enjoy good food and live music while learning more about our state flower.
California Poppy Festival:
http://www.poppyfestival.com
Poppy Reserve Wildflower Hotline:
(661) 724-1180
Private Tour Reservations:
(661) 942-0662 or e-mail MDIC@parks.ca.gov at least a month in advance.
