Where to find the best
The California poppy is native to the Pacific Slope region. One of the most iconic symbols of California, it was named the official state flower on March 2, 1903.
Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
Visiting this state park is one of the best things to do in California in the spring, as it is located in the most consistent poppy bearing land in the state.
The Lancaster poppies bloom from February through May, with peak bloom happening from the end of March through April.
The Lancaster poppy fields are located roughly 70 miles (~1.5 hours) from Los Angeles and is an ideal day trip during the spring.
The day use fee for Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve is $10 per vehicle. The park tends to fill up during the peak bloom, especially on the weekends, but there is also street parking available.
Whether or not there is a Superbloom depends on the weather conditions the previous winter. Check the park's live webcam to see current bloom conditions before you go.
DO NOT pick the poppies, or step or lay on the flowers. Poppies are fragile and damaging them causes them to lose seeds for the next bloom. Stepping on them also compacts the soil.
The flowers at the Lancaster Poppy Fields open up in mid-morning until late afternoon. They also only open up when the weather is warm, so check the forecast before you go.