Ultimate guide to visit Carrizo Plains National Monument - Top place to see the super bloom

If you're wondering what are the best places to experience this year's super bloom (2023)... here is your answer!

Carrizo Plain National Monument is a vast grassland and home to a diverse range of wildlife. It's one of the largest remaining grasslands in California, and it's home to many endangered species, including the San Joaquin kit fox and the blunt-nosed leopard lizard.

Here is your ultimate guide to discover this beautiful location.

Timing: Spring is a great time to visit Carrizo Plain, as the weather is mild, and the wildflowers are in full bloom. Typically, the wildflowers start blooming in mid-March and continue through mid-April. However, the bloom season can vary depending on the weather, so it's important to check the wildflower status before you go. This year particularly, we are seeing a lot of late blooms due to the storms California has been experiencing. So there's still plenty of time!

Getting There: Carrizo Plain is located in southeastern San Luis Obispo County, about 100 miles north of Los Angeles and 50 miles east of San Luis Obispo. The easiest way to get there is by car, and you can access the plain from Highway 58. There are no public transportation options available.

Activities: Carrizo Plain offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching. During spring, one of the best things to do is to take a wildflower tour, which is typically offered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). You can also hike along the trails to see the wildflowers up close and to spot wildlife, such as pronghorns and tule elk.

Camping: If you want to stay overnight in Carrizo Plain, there are two campgrounds available: Selby Campground and KCL Campground.

Both offer basic amenities, such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.

However, be aware that there is no potable water available in the plain, so you'll need to bring your own water. Camping is first-come, first-served, and there is a nightly fee.

Safety: While visiting Carrizo Plain, please practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for the weather conditions. The plain can be very hot and dry during the day, and cold at night, so make sure you bring appropriate clothing and sun protection.

Also, be aware that there are rattlesnakes in the area, so watch your step and listen for the warning sound.

TOP PLACES TO SEE

1. Soda Lake: This is a large, shallow alkali lake that's a remnant of an ancient sea. It's one of the most distinctive features of the plain, and it's a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

2. Painted Rock: This is an ancient Native American rock art site that's located on the west side of the plain. The site features hundreds of petroglyphs that date back to at least 2000 years ago. I know pretty cool! Kids have a blast discovering this particular location.

3. Goodwin Education Center: This center offers educational exhibits about the natural and cultural history of Carrizo Plain. It's a great place to learn about the geology, wildlife, and native history of the area.

4. Caliente Mountain: This mountain offers stunning views of the plain and surrounding mountains. It's also a popular hiking destination, but the trail is pretty hard and challenging. If you want to hike to the summit we recommend not bringing small children.

5. Temblor Range: This range of mountains runs along the eastern edge of the plain and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

6. Elkhorn Plain: This is a large grassland area on the western side of the plain that's home to a variety of wildlife, including tule elk and pronghorns. There is something truly captivating about grasslands with flowers and the sunset making the whole seen like a magic trick. 100% worth it!

7. Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge: This is a nearby wildlife refuge that's home to many bird species, including sandhill cranes and raptors. It's a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

There you have it, a complete guide to visit this stunning and often overlooked location.

Happy exploring!