Discovering the California Poppy in Lancaster

Photo: Karisma enjoying the California poppy field located in Lancaster, California (Photo by: Karisma)

Tucked away just a little over an hour outside of Los Angeles you will find one of the most beautiful poppy fields you could ever lay your eyes on. During super bloom people flock from all over to view over 1,700 acres of hillsides and fields that are just covered with a blanket of bright orange and yellow wildflowers. The view was mesmerizing and even more majestic in person than all of the photos I saw. I discovered this Poppy Field as I began my search of things to do in Southern California as I began my journey of exploring in my own backyard. I began seeing photos all over social media, however photos have no comparison to how majestic this place is in person. You just can’t feel the amazing energy, smell the breath taking smells or the hear sound of the wind whistling through the canyons other than going in person. 

PHOTO: California Poppy field located in Lancaster, California. (Photo courtesy of Destination Lancaster)

Now finding the Poppy's can be some what of a challenge so I have added the address below. Once you are there are several ways to access the poppy's. Some are accessible only via a strenuous hike, while others are situated a little closer to the visitor center. Also each year the amount of Poppy's that bloom vary. Too much or too little rain plays a major role in the "super bloom" season. The good things is no matter if it's a good super bloom or not, there are always enough Poppy's in season to be able to take in this amazing experience. 

Address: 15101 Lancaster Road, Lancaster, CA 93536

Park Hours: Sunday - Saturday 10:00am - 4:00pm

Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours

Best Time to Visit:During the week while everyone else is at at work.

Park Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset but the best time to go is in the early am at sunrise. You will be the most amazing photos and catch the flowers as they just rise for the day. Early Morning

Poppy Field Etiquette: Don’t pick or trample the flowers. Stay on the trails. You can get amazing photos from the trails and leave your dogs at home. This place is not suitable for dogs and you can’t leave them unattended in your car. If you do, you will be ticketed, your dog removed from your car if it appears to be over heating or suffering in any kind of way. So let’s keep the pups safe and just leave them at home.

Current Bloom Status Updates : California State Park’s Website or call 661-724-1180. Both of these resources continually update the bloom status thorugh out the wildflower season.

Trails: Poppy Trail South, Antelope Butte Trail and Antelope Trail South seem to be the best trials to travel on. Make sure to ask the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve staff for trail maps before you head out.

Most traveled Trails: Kitanemuk vista Point. Paved paths near the visitor center.

Things to watch out for: Mojave green rattle Snake territory

Best Hashtags:  #antelopevalley #poppyreserve

Disclaimer:  Not a single Poppy was crushed or picked while I stopped to smell and take a few photos right off the trail.

Dress Provided by: Rent the Runway