The recent stretch of heat has brought a close to what was a truly beautiful early wildflower bloom across Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. For several weeks the desert was alive with color, a reminder of how magical spring can be here when the conditions align.

While many of the seasonal wildflowers have now faded, cactus blooms are beginning to take center stage, with vibrant flowers appearing on beavertail, cholla, hedgehog, and barrel cactus across the landscape. Individual cactus flowers may only last a few days, but plants often produce blooms in waves for several weeks, creating bursts of color well after the wildflower peak.

Cactus are adapted to desert conditions, but extreme heat can shorten the life of their flowers, which means the best viewing is often early in the morning when blooms are fully open and the desert is most comfortable to explore.

With extreme heat forecasted this week, visitors should plan ahead and come prepared:

• Start early or visit later in the evening to avoid peak heat
• Carry plenty of water (at least 1 gallon per person per day when hiking)
• Wear sun protection — a hat, sunscreen, and lightweight long sleeves
• Bring salty snacks or electrolytes to stay balanced in the heat
• Tell someone your plans and stick to established routes

Even as the wildflower peak passes, the desert continues to change and surprise us. The big blooms may fade, but new layers of desert beauty are always unfolding for those who take the time to look closely.

While it’s always hard to say goodbye to peak wildflower season, the higher temperatures have taken a noticeable toll. The larger, more concentrated displays along Henderson Canyon Road, Coyote Canyon, and the Badlands are now very much past their prime and mostly dried up. Those sweeping carpets of color have faded, and these areas are mostly wrapped up for the season.

That said, wildflowers are still blooming in the Park—just in a more scattered way. If you slow down, look closely, and explore a bit, you’ll still find pockets of color tucked along trails, hillsides, and washes. The desert often rewards those who take their time. And remember spring in Anza-Borrego is beautiful with or without widespread blooms. Clear skies, fresh greenery, wildlife activity, golden light on the mountains, and peaceful trails make this one of the most special times to visit. The wildflower show may be winding down, but the rest of the season is still full of magic.

With recent temperature stretches in the high 90s, lower elevation blooms — including Henderson Canyon Road and Coyote Canyon — are now past prime and fading quickly.

The Badlands area (San Felipe Wash, Inspiration Wash (at entrance), Cut Across, Short Wash, and Fonts Point) should still offer flowers, though blooms may begin thinning as heat continues. This is a rare opportunity to see flowers in terrain that is typically sparse and dramatic. AWD or 4WD required and high clearance is recommended.

Park scientists expect higher elevations, canyons, and riparian areas to offer the best remaining flowers in early March, as these areas hold moisture longer. Brittlebush continues to brighten slopes, fishhook cactus is blooming now, and barrel and cholla cactus blooms are expected later this month.

If you’re planning a visit, start early, prepare for heat, and please stay on designated routes to protect these fragile desert landscapes.

Wildflower Update: A Rapid Shift in the Bloom

This week’s forecast is bringing a dramatic warm-up to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, with temperatures climbing into the 80s and even low 90s.

While that sunshine may feel inviting, sustained heat at this level can be hard on our fragile desert wildflowers.

Unlike garden plants, desert annuals have very short bloom windows. When temperatures spike into the 80s and 90s:

• Petals dry and curl more quickly
• Soil moisture evaporates rapidly
• Plants shift energy from blooming to seed production
• Bloom cycles shorten dramatically

In short, heat speeds everything up. 

Here are the Park’s scientist’s bloom predictions for the next month:

Henderson Canyon & Lower Elevations

The blooms along Henderson Canyon Road and other lower elevation areas are now past prime. The coming heat will likely accelerate their decline. If you’ve already visited, you witnessed the peak. If you haven’t, you may find scattered color rather than full carpets.

Badlands Area: Peak Bloom Now

The Badlands are currently at peak bloom — and this is one of the most unique wildflower experiences in the Park.

San Felipe Wash, Cut Across Trail, Short Wash, and Fonts Point have Desert Lilies blooming that are amazing against dramatic eroded terrain. This area is typically sparse and stark, so seeing blooms emerge from what appears to be bare earth is a striking reminder of the desert’s resilience.

Important access note:
AWD or 4WD is required, and high clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. Conditions can change quickly depending on recent weather.

Higher Elevations & Canyons

Peak bloom in higher elevation areas, riparian zones, and canyon systems during the first week of March. These areas retain moisture longer and are more buffered from heat, allowing blooms to extend slightly beyond lower elevations.

If you’re planning a visit, focusing on elevation may offer the best color in the coming weeks.

What’s Blooming Now

• Brittlebush is lighting up slopes with bright yellow blooms
• Fishhook cactus is blooming now
• Barrel cactus and cholla are expected to bloom in about a month

Cactus blooms are always worth the wait — bold, architectural, and often lasting longer than annual wildflowers.

Is this a super bloom?

Not at this time. While the Park has received approximately 3.5 inches of rain over the past three months (according to Steele/Burnand Desert Research Center)—a significant amount for the desert—a true super bloom requires a rare combination of conditions, including sustained rainfall over multiple months, cool nighttime temperatures, minimal heat spikes, and calm winds that allow seedlings to establish.

Even without a super bloom, years like this can still offer rewarding and meaningful wildflower experiences.

How long will the flowers last?

Wildflower timing in the desert is highly variable. Individual blooms may last days to a couple of weeks, while overall wildflower viewing can extend several weeks to a few months depending on:

• Temperature changes

• Wind events

• Localized rainfall

• Elevation and exposure

Blooms typically appear in waves, moving through different canyons, washes, and elevations rather than peaking all at once. Warm temperatures or strong winds can shorten bloom duration, while cooler, calm conditions may allow flowers to last longer.

Because conditions can change quickly, we recommend visiting sooner rather than later and checking updates frequently.

Visiting responsibly

Help protect these fragile blooms so others can enjoy them:

• Don’t doom the bloom: Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling flowers.

• No dogs in flower fields or on trails anywhere in the Park. Dogs must be leashed and are allowed only on dirt roads.

• Be patient with crowds—wildflower season is short and draws many visitors.

• Watch your step: Rattlesnakes are active year-round and often live among the flowers.

Stay updated

Wildflower conditions can change rapidly based on weather and temperature.

We received some rain in the past 24 hours, and it looks like more is on the way! Rain could be very helpful in extending the bloom and may be the extra push needed to turn what is already an amazing flower year into something even more spectacular! 

All areas from last week’s report are similar this week:

Henderson Canyon Road
Wildflowers here are still hanging on, and with the potential rain ahead, this area may get a needed boost and continue producing fresh blooms. 2WD ok- flowers right off paved road. Flowers blooming:

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata)

Coyote Canyon
Coyote Canyon is beautiful right now, with multiple areas actively blooming. It’s also a great option if you’re hoping for a more spread-out wildflower experience. Closed at third crossing. AWD / 4X4 recommended.  Flowers blooming: 

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata

•  Desert phacelia / Small-flowered phaceli (Phacelia minor)

• Desert star (Monoptilon bellioides)

• Frémont’s pincushion (Chaenactis fremontii)

Borrego Palm Canyon
Borrego Palm Canyon is also looking beautiful, with more blooms than our last update, a great sign that the season still has some momentum. 2WD ok- traill off paved road. Flowers blooming: 

• Desert lavender (Condea emoryi)

• Chuparosa (Justicia californica)

• Datura / desert thorn-apple (Datura discolor)

• Yellow nightshade groundcherry (Physalis crassifolia)

• Emory’s rockdaisy (Perityle emoryi)

• Parish’s poppy (Eschscholzia parishii)

• Bush mallow (Malacothamnus aboriginum)

• Desert phacelia / Small-flowered phacelia
  (Phacelia minor)

• Common fiddleneck (Amsinckia intermedia)

• Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa)

S-22 Corridor
Wildflowers are blooming all along the S-22 corridor, making for a scenic drive with plenty of opportunities to spot color from the road and at pullouts. Make sure to pull all the way off the road and watch for traffic when crossing. 

Entrance to Coachwhip Canyon (East Side):

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis) 
• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa) 
• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata) 

Other notes:

• Medium soft sand at entrance (fine for four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles, other vehicles can park along the bottom of the road)
• Easily accessible from the entrance to the canyon, or the side of the road, with the beautiful backdrop of the Santa Rosa mountain range behind

Rainbow Canyon

Road conditions: 2WD ok / park on side of highway. Flowers blooming: verbena, cheesebush, ocotillo (even a red one!), yucca, mamillaria, desert poppy, desert tobacco, fiddleneck, thickleaf ground cherry, Ca barrel cactus, desert chicory, brittlebush, Parrish’s goldeneye, chuparosa, desert lavender, distant phacelia, suncup, Hartweg’s climbing milkweed, shrubby deervetch,  cryptanthas

Desert Lillies are blooming in Arroyo Salado, Truckhaven (Verbena, sunflowers, and primrose also blooming) and Inspiration Wash. AWD or 4×4 recommended for all three areas.  

South Palm Wash

Road conditions: Packed sand, but you need high clearance if you want to drive down the hill to park at the bottom. Otherwise, park at the top of the hill and walk down.

Flowers: cheesebush, creosote, desert sunflower, narrow leaf cryptantha, distant phacelia, lupine, desert lily, sand verbena, blazing star, desert chickory, brittlebush, heartleaf suncup, desert tobacco, brown eyes, Ca primrose, Spanish needle

Is this a super bloom?

Not at this time. While the Park has received approximately 3.5 inches of rain over the past three months (according to Steele/Burnand Desert Research Center)—a significant amount for the desert—a true super bloom requires a rare combination of conditions, including sustained rainfall over multiple months, cool nighttime temperatures, minimal heat spikes, and calm winds that allow seedlings to establish.

Even without a super bloom, years like this can still offer rewarding and meaningful wildflower experiences.

How long will the flowers last?

Wildflower timing in the desert is highly variable. Individual blooms may last days to a couple of weeks, while overall wildflower viewing can extend several weeks to a few months depending on:

• Temperature changes

• Wind events

• Localized rainfall

• Elevation and exposure

Blooms typically appear in waves, moving through different canyons, washes, and elevations rather than peaking all at once. Warm temperatures or strong winds can shorten bloom duration, while cooler, calm conditions may allow flowers to last longer.

Because conditions can change quickly, we recommend visiting sooner rather than later and checking updates frequently.

Visiting responsibly

Help protect these fragile blooms so others can enjoy them:

• Don’t doom the bloom: Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling flowers.

• No dogs in flower fields or on trails anywhere in the Park. Dogs must be leashed and are allowed only on dirt roads.

• Be patient with crowds—wildflower season is short and draws many visitors.

• Watch your step: Rattlesnakes are active year-round and often live among the flowers.

Stay updated

Wildflower conditions can change rapidly based on weather and temperature.

Good news! Rain is in the forecast, which could help extend the bloom and give many areas a much-needed boost in the coming weeks.

Henderson Canyon Road
Wildflowers here are still hanging on, and with the potential rain ahead, this area may get a needed boost and continue producing fresh blooms. 2WD ok- flowers right off paved road. Flowers blooming:

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata)

Coyote Canyon
Coyote Canyon is beautiful right now, with multiple areas actively blooming. It’s also a great option if you’re hoping for a more spread-out wildflower experience. Closed at third crossing. AWD / 4X4 recommended.  Flowers blooming: 

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata

•  Desert phacelia / Small-flowered phaceli (Phacelia minor)

• Desert star (Monoptilon bellioides)

• Frémont’s pincushion (Chaenactis fremontii)

Borrego Palm Canyon
Borrego Palm Canyon is also looking beautiful, with more blooms than our last update, a great sign that the season still has some momentum. 2WD ok- traill off paved road. Flowers blooming: 

• Desert lavender (Condea emoryi)

• Chuparosa (Justicia californica)

• Datura / desert thorn-apple (Datura discolor)

• Yellow nightshade groundcherry (Physalis crassifolia)

• Emory’s rockdaisy (Perityle emoryi)

• Parish’s poppy (Eschscholzia parishii)

• Bush mallow (Malacothamnus aboriginum)

• Desert phacelia / Small-flowered phacelia
  (Phacelia minor)

• Common fiddleneck (Amsinckia intermedia)

• Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa)

S-22 Corridor
Wildflowers are blooming all along the S-22 corridor, making for a scenic drive with plenty of opportunities to spot color from the road and at pullouts. Make sure to pull all the way off the road and watch for traffic when crossing. 

Entrance to Coachwhip Canyon (East Side):

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis) 
• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa) 
• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata) 

Other notes:

• Medium soft sand at entrance (fine for four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles, other vehicles can park along the bottom of the road)
• Easily accessible from the entrance to the canyon, or the side of the road, with the beautiful backdrop of the Santa Rosa mountain range behind

Rainbow Canyon

Road conditions: 2WD ok / park on side of highway. Flowers blooming: verbena, cheesebush, ocotillo (even a red one!), yucca, mamillaria, desert poppy, desert tobacco, fiddleneck, thickleaf ground cherry, Ca barrel cactus, desert chicory, brittlebush, Parrish’s goldeneye, chuparosa, desert lavender, distant phacelia, suncup, Hartweg’s climbing milkweed, shrubby deervetch,  cryptanthas

Desert Lillies are blooming in Arroyo Salado, Truckhaven (Verbena, sunflowers, and primrose also blooming) and Inspiration Wash. AWD or 4×4 recommended for all three areas.  

Is this a super bloom?

Not at this time. While the Park has received approximately 3.5 inches of rain over the past three months (according to Steele/Burnand Desert Research Center)—a significant amount for the desert—a true super bloom requires a rare combination of conditions, including sustained rainfall over multiple months, cool nighttime temperatures, minimal heat spikes, and calm winds that allow seedlings to establish.

Even without a super bloom, years like this can still offer rewarding and meaningful wildflower experiences.

How long will the flowers last?

Wildflower timing in the desert is highly variable. Individual blooms may last days to a couple of weeks, while overall wildflower viewing can extend several weeks to a few months depending on:

• Temperature changes

• Wind events

• Localized rainfall

• Elevation and exposure

Blooms typically appear in waves, moving through different canyons, washes, and elevations rather than peaking all at once. Warm temperatures or strong winds can shorten bloom duration, while cooler, calm conditions may allow flowers to last longer.

Because conditions can change quickly, we recommend visiting sooner rather than later and checking updates frequently.

Visiting responsibly

Help protect these fragile blooms so others can enjoy them:

• Don’t doom the bloom: Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling flowers.

• No dogs in flower fields or on trails anywhere in the Park. Dogs must be leashed and are allowed only on dirt roads.

• Be patient with crowds—wildflower season is short and draws many visitors.

• Watch your step: Rattlesnakes are active year-round and often live among the flowers.

Stay updated

Wildflower conditions can change rapidly based on weather and temperature.

Wildflowers in the locations below are still beautiful, but we’re beginning to see them taper off with the warmer temperatures and rain remains limited. Many blooms are past peak, though flowers can still be found with a little exploration. As always, conditions can change quickly—now is a great time to visit and enjoy what’s still on display while it lasts.

Where flowers are blooming now:

Coyote Canyon Road: starting at the sign at the entrance of the dirt road.

Flowers: Spanish needle, dune evening primrose, CA primrose, brown eyes, lupine, two types of cryptantha, CA shieldpod, 

Road: well packed sand. one big dip down the road a ways that needs higher clearance

Density: thick near the sign and a mile or so down the road

Alcoholic Pass Trail: Flowers: in addition to the ones you’ll see roadside getting there, Fremont pincushion, Emery’s rock daisy, trailing windmills, thickleaf ground cherry, Bigelow’s monkeyflower, Booth’s evening primrose, desert poppies

Road: packed sand, but there is a big dip in the road that needs high clearance

Trail: rocky and steep

Density: scattered

Bow Willow to Torote Bowl Loop Trail:

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata) (low to medium density)
• California barrel cactus ( Ferocactus cylindraceus) (low density)

Other Notes: Easy 2WD access to trailhead in Bow Willow campground (the dirt road is graded)

Entrance to Coachwhip Canyon (East Side):

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis) (high density)
• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa) (low density)
• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata) (medium density)

Other notes:

• Medium soft sand at entrance (fine for four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles, other vehicles can park along the bottom of the road)
• Easily accessible from the entrance to the canyon, or the side of the road, with the beautiful backdrop of the Santa Rosa mountain range behind

Henderson Canyon Road is currently offering the most vibrant displays, with sweeping patches of:

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata)

Borrego Palm Canyon:

• Desert lavender (Condea emoryi)

• Chuparosa (Justicia californica)

• Datura / desert thorn-apple (Datura discolor)

• Yellow nightshade groundcherry (Physalis crassifolia)

• Emory’s rockdaisy (Perityle emoryi)

• Parish’s poppy (Eschscholzia parishii)

• Bush mallow (Malacothamnus aboriginum)

• Desert phacelia / Small-flowered phacelia
  (Phacelia minor)

• Common fiddleneck (Amsinckia intermedia)

• Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa)

Coyote Canyon (AWD / 4X4 Required / closed at third crossing): 

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata

Desert Lillies are blooming in Arroyo Salado, Truckhaven, and Inspiration Wash. AWD or 4×4 recommended for all three areas.  

Is this a super bloom?

Not at this time. While the Park has received approximately 3.5 inches of rain over the past three months (according to Steele/Burnand Desert Research Center)—a significant amount for the desert—a true super bloom requires a rare combination of conditions, including sustained rainfall over multiple months, cool nighttime temperatures, minimal heat spikes, and calm winds that allow seedlings to establish.

Even without a super bloom, years like this can still offer rewarding and meaningful wildflower experiences.

How long will the flowers last?

Wildflower timing in the desert is highly variable. Individual blooms may last days to a couple of weeks, while overall wildflower viewing can extend several weeks to a few months depending on:

• Temperature changes

• Wind events

• Localized rainfall

• Elevation and exposure

Blooms typically appear in waves, moving through different canyons, washes, and elevations rather than peaking all at once. Warm temperatures or strong winds can shorten bloom duration, while cooler, calm conditions may allow flowers to last longer.

Because conditions can change quickly, we recommend visiting sooner rather than later and checking updates frequently.

Visiting responsibly

Help protect these fragile blooms so others can enjoy them:

• Don’t doom the bloom: Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling flowers.

• No dogs in flower fields or on trails anywhere in the Park. Dogs must be leashed and are allowed only on dirt roads.

• Be patient with crowds—wildflower season is short and draws many visitors.

• Watch your step: Rattlesnakes are active year-round and often live among the flowers.

Stay updated

Wildflower conditions can change rapidly based on weather and temperature. For the most current information:

• Visit this page regularly for updates

•  

Where flowers are blooming now:

Bow Willow to Torote Bowl Loop Trail:

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata) (low to medium density)
• California barrel cactus ( Ferocactus cylindraceus) (low density)

Other Notes: Easy 2WD access to trailhead in Bow Willow campground (the dirt road is graded)

Entrance to Coachwhip Canyon (East Side):

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis) (high density)
• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa) (low density)
• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata) (medium density)

Other notes:

• Medium soft sand at entrance (fine for four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles, other vehicles can park along the bottom of the road)
• Easily accessible from the entrance to the canyon, or the side of the road, with the beautiful backdrop of the Santa Rosa mountain range behind

Henderson Canyon Road is currently offering the most vibrant displays, with sweeping patches of:

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata)

Borrego Palm Canyon:

• Desert lavender (Condea emoryi)

• Chuparosa (Justicia californica)

• Datura / desert thorn-apple (Datura discolor)

• Yellow nightshade groundcherry (Physalis crassifolia)

• Emory’s rockdaisy (Perityle emoryi)

• Parish’s poppy (Eschscholzia parishii)

• Bush mallow (Malacothamnus aboriginum)

• Desert phacelia / Small-flowered phacelia
  (Phacelia minor)

• Common fiddleneck (Amsinckia intermedia)

• Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa)

Coyote Canyon (AWD / 4X4 Required / closed at third crossing): 

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata

Desert Lillies are blooming in Arroyo Salado, Truckhaven, and Inspiration Wash. AWD or 4×4 recommended for all three areas.  

Is this a super bloom?

Not at this time. While the Park has received approximately 3.5 inches of rain over the past three months (according to Steele/Burnand Desert Research Center)—a significant amount for the desert—a true super bloom requires a rare combination of conditions, including sustained rainfall over multiple months, cool nighttime temperatures, minimal heat spikes, and calm winds that allow seedlings to establish.

Even without a super bloom, years like this can still offer rewarding and meaningful wildflower experiences.

How long will the flowers last?

Wildflower timing in the desert is highly variable. Individual blooms may last days to a couple of weeks, while overall wildflower viewing can extend several weeks to a few months depending on:

• Temperature changes

• Wind events

• Localized rainfall

• Elevation and exposure

Blooms typically appear in waves, moving through different canyons, washes, and elevations rather than peaking all at once. Warm temperatures or strong winds can shorten bloom duration, while cooler, calm conditions may allow flowers to last longer.

Because conditions can change quickly, we recommend visiting sooner rather than later and checking updates frequently.

Visiting responsibly

Help protect these fragile blooms so others can enjoy them:

• Don’t doom the bloom: Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling flowers.

• No dogs in flower fields or on trails anywhere in the Park. Dogs must be leashed and are allowed only on dirt roads.

• Be patient with crowds—wildflower season is short and draws many visitors.

• Watch your step: Rattlesnakes are active year-round and often live among the flowers.

Stay updated

Wildflower conditions can change rapidly based on weather and temperature. For the most current information:

• Visit this page regularly for updates

•  

Where flowers are blooming now:

Henderson Canyon Road is currently offering the most vibrant displays, with sweeping patches of:

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata)

Borrego Palm Canyon:

• Desert lavender (Condea emoryi)

• Chuparosa (Justicia californica)

• Datura / desert thorn-apple (Datura discolor)

• Yellow nightshade groundcherry (Physalis crassifolia)

• Emory’s rockdaisy (Perityle emoryi)

• Parish’s poppy (Eschscholzia parishii)

• Bush mallow (Malacothamnus aboriginum)

• Desert phacelia / Small-flowered phacelia
  (Phacelia minor)

• Common fiddleneck (Amsinckia intermedia)

• Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa)

Coyote Canyon (closed at third crossing): 

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata

Desert Lillies are blooming in Arroyo Salado, Truckhaven, and Inspiration Wash. AWD or 4×4 recommended for all three areas.  

Is this a super bloom?

Not at this time. While the Park has received approximately 3.5 inches of rain over the past three months (according to Steele/Burnand Desert Research Center)—a significant amount for the desert—a true super bloom requires a rare combination of conditions, including sustained rainfall over multiple months, cool nighttime temperatures, minimal heat spikes, and calm winds that allow seedlings to establish.

Even without a super bloom, years like this can still offer rewarding and meaningful wildflower experiences.

How long will the flowers last?

Wildflower timing in the desert is highly variable. Individual blooms may last days to a couple of weeks, while overall wildflower viewing can extend several weeks to a few months depending on:

• Temperature changes

• Wind events

• Localized rainfall

• Elevation and exposure

Blooms typically appear in waves, moving through different canyons, washes, and elevations rather than peaking all at once. Warm temperatures or strong winds can shorten bloom duration, while cooler, calm conditions may allow flowers to last longer.

Because conditions can change quickly, we recommend visiting sooner rather than later and checking updates frequently.

Visiting responsibly

Help protect these fragile blooms so others can enjoy them:

• Don’t doom the bloom: Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling flowers.

• No dogs in flower fields or on trails anywhere in the Park. Dogs must be leashed and are allowed only on dirt roads.

• Be patient with crowds—wildflower season is short and draws many visitors.

• Watch your step: Rattlesnakes are active year-round and often live among the flowers.

Stay updated

Wildflower conditions can change rapidly based on weather and temperature. For the most current information:

• Visit this page regularly for updates

Desert Lillies are starting to bloom in Arroyo Salado, Truckhaven, and Inspiration Wash. AWD or 4×4 recommended for all three areas.  

Where flowers are blooming now

Henderson Canyon Road is currently offering the most vibrant displays, with sweeping patches of:

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata)

Other areas of the Park that have blooms:

• Borrego Palm Canyon is blooming with desert lavender, chuparosa, datura, yellow nightshade groundcherry, Emory’s rockdaisy, and bush mallow.

• Coyote Canyon is also showing early signs of bloom; however, it is currently closed to vehicle traffic at the Third Crossing gate.

Is this a super bloom?

Not at this time. While the Park has received approximately 3.5 inches of rain over the past three months (according to Steele/Burnand Desert Research Center)—a significant amount for the desert—a true super bloom requires a rare combination of conditions, including sustained rainfall over multiple months, cool nighttime temperatures, minimal heat spikes, and calm winds that allow seedlings to establish.

Even without a super bloom, years like this can still offer rewarding and meaningful wildflower experiences.

How long will the flowers last?

Wildflower timing in the desert is highly variable. Individual blooms may last days to a couple of weeks, while overall wildflower viewing can extend several weeks to a few months depending on:

• Temperature changes

• Wind events

• Localized rainfall

• Elevation and exposure

Blooms typically appear in waves, moving through different canyons, washes, and elevations rather than peaking all at once. Warm temperatures or strong winds can shorten bloom duration, while cooler, calm conditions may allow flowers to last longer.

Because conditions can change quickly, we recommend visiting sooner rather than later and checking updates frequently.

Visiting responsibly

Help protect these fragile blooms so others can enjoy them:

• Don’t doom the bloom: Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling flowers.

• No dogs in flower fields or on trails anywhere in the Park. Dogs must be leashed and are allowed only on dirt roads.

• Be patient with crowds—wildflower season is short and draws many visitors.

• Watch your step: Rattlesnakes are active year-round and often live among the flowers.

Stay updated

Wildflower conditions can change rapidly based on weather and temperature. For the most current information:

• Visit this page regularly for updates

Early-season wildflowers are blooming in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, bringing color back to the desert landscape. While this is not a super bloom at this time, there are beautiful displays for visitors who know where to look.

Where flowers are blooming now

Henderson Canyon Road is currently offering the most vibrant displays, with sweeping patches of:

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata)

Other areas of the Park are just beginning to show early color:

• Borrego Palm Canyon is blooming with desert lavender, chuparosa, datura, yellow nightshade groundcherry, Emory’s rockdaisy, and bush mallow.

• Coyote Canyon is also showing early signs of bloom; however, it is currently closed to vehicle traffic at the Third Crossing gate.

Is this a super bloom?

Not at this time. While the Park has received approximately 3.5 inches of rain over the past three months (according to Steele/Burnand Desert Research Center)—a significant amount for the desert—a true super bloom requires a rare combination of conditions, including sustained rainfall over multiple months, cool nighttime temperatures, minimal heat spikes, and calm winds that allow seedlings to establish.

Even without a super bloom, years like this can still offer rewarding and meaningful wildflower experiences.

How long will the flowers last?

Wildflower timing in the desert is highly variable. Individual blooms may last days to a couple of weeks, while overall wildflower viewing can extend several weeks to a few months depending on:

• Temperature changes

• Wind events

• Localized rainfall

• Elevation and exposure

Blooms typically appear in waves, moving through different canyons, washes, and elevations rather than peaking all at once. Warm temperatures or strong winds can shorten bloom duration, while cooler, calm conditions may allow flowers to last longer.

Because conditions can change quickly, we recommend visiting sooner rather than later and checking updates frequently.

Visiting responsibly

Help protect these fragile blooms so others can enjoy them:

• Don’t doom the bloom: Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling flowers.

• No dogs in flower fields or on trails anywhere in the Park. Dogs must be leashed and are allowed only on dirt roads.

• Be patient with crowds—wildflower season is short and draws many visitors.

• Watch your step: Rattlesnakes are active year-round and often live among the flowers.

Stay updated

Wildflower conditions can change rapidly based on weather and temperature. For the most current information:

• Visit this page regularly for updates

Flowers continue to bloom in Henderson Canyon & flowers popping up in Borrego Palm Canyon.

Henderson Canyon is putting on a stunning show right now—the canyon is blooming with color. Peak timing will depend on upcoming weather and any additional rain, so enjoy it while it lasts. Species currently in bloom include:

• Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa)

• Brown-eyed primrose (Camissonia claviformis)

• Desert sunflower (Geraea canescens)

• Evening primrose (Oenothera spp.)

• Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida)

• Apricot mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)

• Desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata)

Borrego Palm Canyon is also beginning to bloom, especially along warmer, protected areas. Early flowers to look for include:

• Desert lavender (Hyptis emoryi)

• Datura / desert thorn-apple (Datura discolor)

• Chuparosa (Justicia californica)

• Yellow nightshade groundcherry (Physalis crassifolia)

• Emory’s rockdaisy (Perityle emoryi)

• Hibiscus mallow (bush mallow) (Malacothamnus fasciculatus)

Conditions can change quickly in the desert—visit soon, tread lightly, and help protect these beautiful endemic species for everyone to enjoy.

Early season wildflowers are blooming in Henderson Canyon!

Thanks to the recent rains, Henderson Canyon is beginning to show a flush of wildflower color, a rare and beautiful fall surprise in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. These early blooms often catch visitors off guard, but they’re a natural response to the timing of rainfall, soil moisture, and temperature.

While most people associate wildflowers with spring, certain annuals will germinate and bloom in the fall if they receive enough early moisture. After a long, dry summer, even a modest storm can awaken seeds that have been lying dormant beneath the desert surface, waiting for the right conditions. Cooler nights and warm days create an ideal window, allowing some species to emerge months ahead of the main bloom season.

It’s important to note that this early burst of color does not predict a spring super bloom. A true super bloom requires a very specific sequence of weather events, well-timed rains, consistent moisture through winter, protection from damaging winds, and cooler temperatures without hard freezes. Those conditions rarely line up perfectly.

For now, though, Henderson Canyon is offering a quiet bit of magic—an unexpected preview of the desert’s potential and a reminder of how quickly life responds when the rains return.

If you plan to visit, we encourage you to tread carefully and enjoy these delicate early blooms in all their fleeting beauty.

Will there be a “super bloom” this year? A super bloom isn’t just “a lot of flowers”, it’s the result of a perfect sequence of weather events that begins months before petals appear. In Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, seeds lie dormant in the soil for years, waiting for just the right combination of gentle, soaking autumn rains; steady winter moisture; and cool, stable temperatures without hard freezes. These early rains are especially important because they trigger germination. If this first step doesn’t happen, the super bloom window closes before it ever opens.

Even when germination begins, the desert must continue to cooperate. Winter storms need to deliver repeated light rainfall, not downpours that wash away topsoil or flatten seedlings. Calm wind patterns, consistent cloud cover, and cooler days help protect fragile sprouts as they develop. Any major disruption like dry spells, sudden heatwaves, strong winds, or cold snaps can halt the bloom in its tracks, no matter how promising the season looked early on.

That’s why super blooms are exceptionally rare in Anza-Borrego. While the Park may enjoy colorful blooms in many years, true super blooms, where wildflowers blanket entire valleys and hillsides, only occur when nearly every factor aligns perfectly across the fall and winter months. So will we have one this year? Only time and patience will tell. 

Although we do not expect a significant bloom this year, we still would like to invite you to share your findings on our interactive wildflower map.

Instructions for uploading your wildflower finds to the map:

Note: Please make sure the location is ON in your phone/device setting. This survey uses your internet browser.

Open the map here: Anza Borrego Desert State Park Interactive Map

Click on the “Add Data” 

Click on “New Feature“:

Click on the map where you want to report/record the wildflower observation. 

If you want to add photos to your report, click on the “+ Add ” in the attachment section: 

That’s it! Happy sharing!

Will we have a wildflower bloom this season?

As spring approaches, many are wondering if Anza-Borrego Desert State Park will experience one of its famed wildflower blooms this year. Unfortunately, due to the desert receiving virtually no significant rain this season, a large-scale bloom is not expected. These breathtaking blooms, which blanket the desert floor with vibrant colors, require substantial and well-timed rainfall to occur—a weather pattern we haven’t seen this year.

However, while a significant bloom is unlikely, the good news is the desert will still have some blooms here and there with higher concentrations in remote canyons. Hardy plants like agave, brittlebush, and ocotillo blossoms can still be found, adding splashes of color to the landscape. Visitors who take the time to explore will be rewarded with the simple beauty of these resilient desert plants..

If you’re interested in learning more about the Park’s wildflowers join us for an exciting wildflower retreat! Click here for more information.

Check back here as we will update weekly as the wildflower season unfolds. 

So long, farewell, auf wiedersehen, goodbye! The wildflower season is officially over, with only a few remaining cacti blooms and small pockets of flowers here and there. 

Watch for blooms starting in the higher elevations, including Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. You can follow Cuyamaca Rancho State Park’s updates on their Facebook page here. 

Thank you for following along during what was a spectacular wildflower season! As we say goodbye to the wildflowers until next time, we hope you made some memories and experienced the bloom. 

If you’d like to receive non-wildflower Park updates, event information, and tips for exploring the Park, please subscribe here.

If you’d like to support our work, including our conservation efforts, please consider a donation today!

Flowers are still blooming along Henderson Canyon Road, in Coyote Canyon and Arroyo Salado. Larger patches of sand verbena are also blooming near Truckhaven Trail off highway S-22. Cacti look like they will start blooming soon!

Skip the crowded Visitor Center and go right to the flowers! Print the most recent wildflower map below at home before heading to the Park.

If you’re looking for specific types of flowers and their locations, use the interactive map here. 

If you’re looking for locations to where to see the most flowers, use this simple map to get to Coyote Canyon, Henderson Canyon, and Arroyo Salado. 

If you’re looking for specific types of flowers and their locations, use the interactive map here. 

Directions to most recent wildflower areas:

Henderson Canyon Rd. from Borrego Springs Town Center:

Drive east along Palm Canyon Drive and continue halfway around the Christmas Circle roundabout, then turn right back onto Palm Canyon Drive.

In about a half-mile turn left onto DiGeorgio Road.  Drive 3 miles north on DiGeorgio Rd. and turn right onto Henderson Canyon Road. Drive east on Henderson Canyon Road for a few miles until you see the yellow fields of yellow Desert Sunflower and the White flowered Dune Evening-Primrose.

Coyote Canyon from Borrego Springs Town Center: 

Drive east along Palm Canyon Drive and continue halfway around the Christmas Circle roundabout, then turn right back onto Palm Canyon Drive.

In about a half-mile turn left onto DiGeorgio Road. Continue north on DiGeorgio Road for about 5 miles to the end of DiGeorgio Road pavement. There is an interpretive ramada on the right side of the unpaved road. You can explore the wildflower adjacent to the interpretive ramada, or you may choose to drive further up the main road up into Coyote Canyon.

It can be very sandy with some dips, so be careful to stay on the two-track portion of the road and avoid adjacent sandy areas. There are narrow portions of this road, so be aware of other vehicle on turns. You can judge whether your vehicle can drive in this area. Ideally you should have a high-clearance, all-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle. There are currently good flowers along the way with the carpets of purple Sand Verbena, yellow Desert Dandelion, white-flowered Desert Chicory, white-flowered Spectacle Pod, and an occasional white-flowered Desert Lily.  

Be careful not to walk on top of mounds with animal burrows.  They can collapse and you may twist an ankle if the burrow collapses.       

Thousands of visitors come to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park each year to enjoy the beauty of unique and captivating desert wildflowers in bloom. However, it’s crucial for visitors to practice responsible behavior, such as staying on designated trails and avoiding trampling the delicate wildflowers, to ensure the preservation of these natural wonders for everyone to enjoy.

This may be the year of the Desert Lily (Hesperocallis undulata)! They are starting to bloom in various places in the Park including right off the Borrego Salton Seaway near Palo Verde Wash and Henderson Canyon.

Here are some fun facts about this “Lily”.

• The Desert Lily (Hesperocallis undulata) is not a true lily (Lilium genus), despite its common name containing the term “lily.” It belongs to the family Amaryllidaceae, which is different from the family Liliaceae to which true lilies belong.
• It is native to the deserts of California, Arizona, and northern Mexico, where it thrives in sandy, well-drained soils.
• The Desert Lily produces large, white, funnel-shaped flowers with a sweet fragrance. Each flower typically has six tepals (petal-like segments), and the plant itself can grow up to 3 feet tall.
• Typically, the Desert Lily blooms during the spring, especially after winter rains. The flowers emerge from bulbs that remain dormant underground during dry periods.
• To survive in arid conditions, the Desert Lily has adapted mechanisms to conserve water and withstand high temperatures. Its bulbs store water and nutrients, enabling the plant to endure long periods of drought.
• While the Desert Lily is not considered endangered, it faces threats from habitat destruction and over-collection. Conservation efforts aim to protect its natural habitat and ensure its continued survival in the wild.

Blooms are arriving 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, areas near June Wash moving northeast toward Fish Creek and Arroyo Tapiado are beginning to show the early bloomers like primrose, phacelia, and wooly sunflower. If moving south along the Highway S2, four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended on any unpaved park road.

Photo of Henderson Canyon taken 3/1/24

Photos of wildflowers in Henderson Canyon taken this week by our Board Member, Paulette Donnellon. 

There has been a decent amount of rain, and a bloom could happen, but it depends on many factors that are still unknown. The Park is monitoring the rain/weather/plants and we will notify the public if a significant bloom starts.

• Please call the Wildflower Hotline at (760) 767-4684 for weekly updates!

The recent heat has taken a toll on the desert wildflowers and there are only small pockets of flowers left in scattered areas of the Park. It’s time to say “good-bye” to this year’s bloom and look forward to next year!

Visitor Center
Location: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center off Palm Canyon Drive. Head west on Palm Canyon Drive until it terminates at the Visitor Center parking lot. Flowers are low to the ground and scattered all throughout the desert floor. Look closely along pathways at the VC, Campground Trail, Little Surprise Canyon, and Hellhole Canyon. Flowers: Brittlebush, Heliotrope, Chuparosa, Barrel Cactus, Beavertail Cactus, Desert Dandelions.

Cactus Loop Trail
Location: Tamarisk Grove Campground. Directions: Take County Road S3, 20 minutes south of Borrego Springs. Head through the Yaqui Pass and look for the tamarisk trees and the campground. Flowers: Fishhook Cactus, Cholla, Beavertail Cactus

Visitor Center
Location: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center off Palm Canyon Drive. Head west on Palm Canyon Drive until it terminates at the Visitor Center parking lot. Flowers are low to the ground and scattered all throughout the desert floor. Look closely along pathways at the VC, Campground Trail, Little Surprise Canyon, and Hellhole Canyon. Flowers: Brittlebush, Heliotrope, Chuparosa, Barrel Cactus, Beavertail Cactus, Desert Dandelions.

Start of Coyote Canyon: (For the first mile past the end of the pavement.)
Directions: Go north on DiGiorgio Road, one road east of Christmas Circle. The pavement ends about three miles north of Palm Canyon Drive. Park at the interpretive kiosk OR drive a half mile on the sandy road and park. Look for flowers for the next one mile. The road is sandy, and passable with care with 2WD. Coyote Canyon past Desert Gardens is 4WD. Dogs allowed on the road on a leash.
Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Primrose, Desert Lily, Desert Sunflower

Henderson Canyon Road
Between Borrego Valley Road and Highway S2. Directions: Park safely off the pavement and walk north in the flower field. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Dune Primrose, Desert Lily, Desert Sunflower

Cactus Loop Trail
Location: Tamarisk Grove Campground. Directions: Take County Road S3, 20 minutes south of Borrego Springs. Head through the Yaqui Pass and look for the tamarisk trees and the campground. Flowers: Fishhook Cactus, Cholla, Beavertail Cactus

Start of Coyote Canyon: (For the first mile past the end of the pavement.)
Directions: Go north on DiGiorgio Road, one road east of Christmas Circle. The pavement ends about three miles north of Palm Canyon Drive. Park at the interpretive kiosk OR drive a half mile on the sandy road and park. Look for flowers for the next one mile. The road is sandy, and passable with care with 2WD. Coyote Canyon past Desert Gardens is 4WD. Dogs allowed on the road on a leash.
Flowers: Predominate color is purple – mostly sand verbena, Arizona lupine is starting to appear, some brown eyed primrose and some desert primrose.

Henderson Canyon Road
Between Borrego Valley Road and Highway S2. Directions: Park safely off the pavement and walk
north in the flower field. Flowers: Predominate color is yellow -mostly desert sunflower. Some sand verbena remain, but not much. Currently towards the middle to the east. West portion is starting.

Cactus Loop Trail
Location: Tamarisk Grove Campground. Directions: Take County Road S3, 20 minutes south of Borrego Springs. Head through the Yaqui Pass and look for the tamarisk trees and the campground.
Flowers: Fishhook Cactus, Beavertail, Barrel Cactus. Parish’s Goldpoppy and Emory’s Rockdaisy are dominate right now and a few Bigelow’s Monkeyflower.

June Wash
Location: Mile 41 on County Rd S2, an hour south of Borrego Springs. 3 miles south of Agua Caliente County Park. PARK at the start of the wash with 2WD. Deep sandy road, OK for 4WD. Flowers are
2/10ths of a mile past the entrance of June Wash, and along the road and washes, good for walking. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Sunflower, Dune Primrose, possible Desert Lily

Vallecito Creek Road
Location: Mile 43 on County Rd S2, an hour south of Borrego Springs. A little more than 3 mile south of Agua Caliente County Park. The wash is sandy, and only passable by vehicles with 4WD. Good for driving. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Sunflower, Dune Primrose, possible Desert Lily

Visitor Center
Location: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center off of Palm Canyon Drive. Head west on Palm Canyon Drive until it terminates at the Visitor Center parking lot. Flowers are low to the ground and scattered all throughout the desert floor. Look closely along pathways at the VC, Campground Trail, Little Surprise Canyon, and Hellhole Canyon. Flowers: Brittlebush, Heliotrope, Chuparosa, Barrel Cactus, Beavertail Cactus, Desert Dandelions. Hellhole Canyon: Mostly Distant Phacelia and fiddleneck from the parking to the junction of the CRHT. Beyond the CRHT you start to see brown eyed evening primrose, Emory’s Rockdaisy and Fremont’s Pincushion.

Start of Coyote Canyon: (For the first mile past the end of the pavement.)
Directions: Go north on DiGiorgio Road, one road east of Christmas Circle. The pavement ends about three miles north of Palm Canyon Drive. Park at the interpretive kiosk OR drive a half mile on the sandy road and park. Look for flowers for the next one mile. The road is sandy, and passable with care with 2WD. Coyote Canyon past Desert Gardens is 4WD. Dogs allowed on the road on a leash. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Primrose, Desert Lily, Desert Sunflower

Henderson Canyon Road
Between Borrego Valley Road and Highway S2. Directions: Park safely off the pavement and walk north in the flower field. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Dune Primrose, Desert Lily, Desert Sunflower

Cactus Loop Trail
Location: Tamarisk Grove Campground. Directions: Take County Road S3, 20 minutes south of Borrego Springs. Head through the Yaqui Pass and look for the tamarisk trees and the campground. Flowers: Fishhook Cactus, Beavertail, Barrel Cactus

June Wash
Location: Mile 41 on County Rd S2, an hour south of Borrego Springs. 3 miles south of Agua Caliente County Park. PARK at the start of the wash with 2WD. Deep sandy road, OK for 4WD. Flowers are 2/10ths of a mile past the entrance of June Wash, and along the road and washes, good for walking. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Sunflower, Dune Primrose, possible Desert Lily

Vallecito Creek Road
Location: Mile 43 on County Rd, an hour south of Borrego Springs. A little more than 3 mile south of Agua Caliente County Park. The wash is sandy, and only passable by vehicles with 4WD. Good for driving. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Sunflower, Dune Primrose, possible Desert Lily

Visitor Center
Location: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center off of Palm Canyon Drive. Head west on Palm Canyon Drive until it terminates at the Visitor Center parking lot. Flowers are low to the ground and scattered all throughout the desert floor. Look closely along pathways at the VC, Campground Trail, Little Surprise Canyon, and Hellhole Canyon. Flowers: Brittlebush, Heliotrope, Chuparosa, Barrel Cactus, Beavertail Cactus, Desert Dandelions.

Start of Coyote Canyon: (For the first mile past the end of the pavement.)
Directions: Go north on DiGiorgio Road, one road east of Christmas Circle. The pavement ends about three miles north of Palm Canyon Drive. Park at the interpretive kiosk OR drive a half mile on the sandy road and park. Look for flowers for the next one mile. The road is sandy, and passable with care with 2WD. Coyote Canyon past Desert Gardens is 4WD. Dogs allowed on the road on a leash. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Primrose, Desert Lily, Desert Sunflower

Henderson Canyon Road
Between Borrego Valley Road and Highway S2. Directions: Park safely off the pavement and walk north in the flower field. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Dune Primrose, Desert Lily, Desert Sunflower

Cactus Loop Trail
Location: Tamarisk Grove Campground. Directions: Take County Road S3, 20 minutes south of Borrego Springs. Head through the Yaqui Pass and look for the tamarisk trees and the campground. Flowers: Fishhook Cactus, Beavertail, Barrel Cactus

June Wash
Location: Mile 41 on County Rd S2, an hour south of Borrego Springs. 3 miles south of Agua Caliente County Park. PARK at the start of the wash with 2WD. Deep sandy road, OK for 4WD. Flowers are 2/10ths of a mile past the entrance of June Wash, and along the road and washes, good for walking. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Sunflower, Dune Primrose, possible Desert Lily

Vallecito Creek Road
Location: Mile 43 on County Rd, an hour south of Borrego Springs. A little more than 3 mile south of Agua Caliente County Park. The wash is sandy, and only passable by vehicles with 4WD. Good for driving. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Sunflower, Dune Primrose, possible Desert Lily

Visitor Center
Location: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center off of Palm Canyon Drive. Head west on Palm Canyon Drive until it terminates at the Visitor Center parking lot. Flowers are low to the ground and scattered all throughout the desert floor. Look closely along pathways at the VC, Campground Trail, Little Surprise Canyon, and Hellhole Canyon. Flowers: Brittlebush, Heliotrope, Chuparosa, Barrel Cactus, Beavertail Cactus, Desert Dandelions.

Start of Coyote Canyon: (For the first mile past the end of the pavement.)
Directions: Go north on DiGiorgio Road, one road east of Christmas Circle. The pavement ends about three miles north of Palm Canyon Drive. Park at the interpretive kiosk OR drive a half mile on the sandy road and park. Look for flowers for the next one mile. The road is sandy, and passable with care with 2WD. Coyote Canyon past Desert Gardens is 4WD. Dogs allowed on the road on a leash.
Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Primrose, Desert Lily, Desert Sunflower

Henderson Canyon Road
Between Borrego Valley Road and Highway S2. Directions: Park safely off the pavement and walk north in the flower field. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Dune Primrose, Desert Lily, Desert Sunflower

Cactus Loop Trail
Location: Tamarisk Grove Campground. Directions: Take County Road S3, 20 minutes south of Borrego Springs. Head through the Yaqui Pass and look for the tamarisk trees and the campground. Flowers: Fishhook Cacti

June Wash
Location: Mile 41 on County Rd S2, an hour south of Borrego Springs. 3 miles south of Agua Caliente County Park. PARK at the start of the wash with 2WD. Deep sandy road, OK for 4WD. Flowers are 2/10ths of a mile past the entrance of June Wash, and along the road and washes, good for walking.
Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Sunflower, Dune Primrose, possible Desert Lily

Vallecito Creek Road
Location: Mile 43 on County Rd S2, an hour south of Borrego Springs. A little more than 3 mile south of Agua Caliente County Park. The wash is sandy, and only passable by vehicles with 4WD. Good for driving. Flowers: Sand Verbena, Desert Sunflower, Dune Primrose, possible Desert Lily

Start of Coyote Canyon: (For the first mile past the end of the pavement.)
Directions: Go north on DiGiorgio Road, one road east of Christmas Circle. The pavement ends about three miles north of Palm Canyon Drive. Park at the interpretive kiosk OR drive a half mile on the sandy road and park. Look for flowers for the next one mile. The road is sandy, and passable with care with 2WD. Coyote Canyon past Desert Gardens is 4WD. Dogs allowed on the road on a leash.

Henderson Canyon Road
Between Borrego Valley Road and Highway S2. Directions: Park safely off the pavement and walk north in the flower field.

Cactus Loop Trail
Location: Tamarisk Grove Campground. Directions: Take County Road S3, 20 minutes south of Borrego Springs. Head through the Yaqui Pass and look for the tamarisk trees and the campground.

June Wash
Location: Mile 41 on County Rd S2, an hour south of Borrego Springs. 3 miles south of Agua Caliente County Park. PARK at the start of the wash with 2WD. Deep sandy road, OK for 4WD. Flowers are 2/10ths of a mile past the entrance of June Wash, and along the road and washes, good for walking.

Vallecito Creek Road
Location: Mile 43 on County Rd S2, an hour south of Borrego Springs. A little more than 3 mile south of Agua Caliente County Park. The wash is sandy, and only passable by vehicles with 4WD. Good for driving.6.

Bow Willow Campground and Hiking Trail
Location: Travel south of County Rd S2, about 12 miles south of Agua Caliente County Park. The road is sandy, and only passable by vehicles with 4WD. Park at the campground.

Start of Coyote Canyon- Directions: Go north on DiGior­gio Road, one road east of Christmas Circle. The pave­ment ends about three miles north of Palm Canyon Drive. Park at the interpretive kiosk OR drive a half mile on the sandy road and park. Look for flowers for the next one mile. The road is sandy, and passable with care with 2WD. Past De­sert Gardens, Coyote Canyon past Desert Gardens is 4WD. Dogs allowed on the road on a leash.

Henderson Canyon Road- Be­tween Borrego Valley Road and Highway S2. Directions: Park safely off the pavement and walk north in the flower field.

June Wash- Location: Mile 41 on County Rd S2, an hour’s south of Borrego Springs. 3 miles south of Aqua Caliente County Park. PARK at the start of the wash with 2WD. Deep sandy road, OK for 4WD. Flowers are along the road and washes, good for walking.

Please check out the Park’s wildflower map here: Anza-Borrego Desert SP ® (ca.gov). This map will get updated weekly.

Currently there are patches of flowers in the following areas:

Northern part of the park include:

Henderson Canyon Rd. (sand verbena, desert sunflower and desert primrose)

Southern part of the park include:

June Wash (sand verbena)

Remember: Please do not stop in the road. Pull over to the side of the road to view the wildflowers, wildlife, and to take photos. Park within one vehicle length of the road and do not park on any vegetation. Leave no trace and take only memories. Please leave the wildflowers for others to enjoy. Give wildlife their distance and allow them access to water.

There are some areas of sand verbena, desert sunflowers and desert primrose along the eastern portion of Henderson Canyon Road.

While the Park is not anticipating a super bloom this season, we are seeing some flowers starting to bloom in the canyons. We will update with more information as we receive it.