The California Poppy Festival is held every year in the Antelope Valley. It’s known as the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve· The reserve is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to active recreation with restrictions.
The Bloom Status Update
Wildflower update March 2, 2021. With unusually frequent “superblooms” over the last few years, it may seem like they are the rule instead of the exception. In reality, an average wildflower showing is much more common. The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve has received less than 2 inches of rain for the water year so far, which is only 1/5 of what is necessary for masses of wildflowers.
Without significant precipitation spread out over multiple storms occurring in the next few weeks, it is becoming increasingly unlikely that we will see endless expanses of flowers like we have in 2017, 2019, and 2020. There is always the chance for a “Miracle March” to deliver drought-busting rain, so the fate of this year’s Poppy Bloom is not yet sealed. Before making the trip out to visit, please check the park’s webcam, which gives a real-time view of the rolling hills.
Check the live poppy camera: www.parks.ca.gov/live/poppyreserve
