Field Trips
Spring Wildflowers ...2026
The first field trip of the year for CCPS will be a self-guided exploration of some of our region’s most popular wildflower sites due to this year’s minimal rain and unpredictable bloom schedule.
Below you’ll find directions to five beautiful stops, with the directions starting in San Luis Obispo.
Many thanks to Roger Bowsky and Gale Owen for envisioning and initiating this adventure.
CCPS Search for Spring Wildflowers
A self-directed exploration of wildflowers nearby
Directions:
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Take SR 101 north, exit HWY 58 east to Shell Creek Rd (stop 1)
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Continue on HWY 58 east to Wildflower fields north of HWY 58 on Carnaza Rd (stop 2)
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Continue on HWY 58 east to Soda Lake Rd. Go south to Soda Lake Point Landmark (stop 3), Carrizo Plains Ecological Reserve (stop 4), and Carrizo Plains National Monument (stop 5).
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Check out the hills on the east side of Soda Lake.
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Two ways home:
a. Bitterwater Rd to HWY 46 to Paso Robles. Chapel Hill north of Hwy 46 for sunset
b. Return by HWY 58 back through Santa Margarita. Stop at Shell Creek Rd. for sunset photos.
Recommendation:
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There are supposed to be bathrooms at the Carrizo Plains National Monument.
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Make your own arrangements for ride share. Many roads are dirt, so plan accordingly.
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Bring food and water for full day.
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Double check your batteries and memory cards.
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Dress accordingly. Plan on cold mornings and hot afternoons.
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As always, ask your fellow photographer for input and guidance.
The status of wildflowers is constantly changing. When you visit, please email Gale Owen at growen01@gmail.com with updates (date, location, flowers blooming, etc.) so we can post on the CCPS website https://www.ccpsphoto.org/.
Wild Flower Hotline: call 818 768-1802 ext. 7 to hear weekly recorded wildflower reports starting March 6.
Check Carrizo Plains National Monument website https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/california/carrizo-plain-national-monument
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