Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California

© Stephen Matera/Tandem Stills + Motio

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California, USA

The first day of spring may be just days away, but the season's wildflowers at California's largest state park—Anza-Borrego Desert State Park—are already here to say hello! Every spring, this barren desert floor undergoes a dramatic makeover. Flowers like heliotrope, brittlebush and desert dandelion burst into a riot of bloom, creating a spectacle of colour. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, this park has a lot to offer—from the mountains of the Peninsular Ranges and cactus-studded hills to slot canyons, badlands and natural palm oases. In addition, as a designated International Dark Sky Park, it is an exceptional spot for stargazing. Beyond its natural wonders, the park, spanning over 242,810 hectares, is also home to a rich cultural and historical legacy, such as ancient pictographs or rock paintings.