DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking one of my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see my disclaimer.

Are you seeking a fun family adventure in Southern California? With all the rain we got this year, flowers are blooming everywhere. And if you enjoy easy family-friendly hikes and beautiful sceneries, why not spend a few hours on the Wildflower Trail at Diamond Valley Lake? Below is everything you need to know and the whole family will be pleased with their adventure!

About Diamond Valley Lake

Located in Hemet, California, Diamond Valley Lake is the largest drinking water reservoir in California, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. 

The lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and hiking, with several trails winding around the perimeter. But this is a no-body contact lake. So swimming and paddle sports are not allowed at Diamond Valley Lake. There’s also no BBQs or alcohol allowed.

However, one of the most stunning attractions of the area is the incredible display of wildflowers in the springtime.

Lastly, restrooms are available in the parking lot, and the store sells snacks, water, and ice creams.

Visiting the Wildflower Trail

The Wildflower Trail is a 1.3-mile loop extending from the Lakeview Trail and is only open during the wildflower season.

The gate opens at 6.30 a.m., the last entry is at 5 p.m., and you must be back in your car by 5.45 p.m. because the gate will close again at 6 p.m. But be aware that access to the lake is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Dogs are not allowed on hiking trails, and there is close to no shade on the trails.

The entrance fee costs $15.00 or more, depending on the size of your party. That’s $11.00 per car, plus $4.00 per person.

Plenty of parking is available, but you may be in line for quite a while before parking. I’ve heard some queued for over an hour before being able to park. So going early or on a weekday is your best bet. I went on a Friday just before 2 p.m., and I was only in line for about five minutes!

Wildflowers Etiquette

The Leave No Trace principles are a set of guidelines designed to help minimize the impact of human activities on the wilderness.

1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. minimize campfire impacts
6. respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of others

With those in mind, when visiting any and all areas where wildflowers are present, please remember the best wildflowers etiquette: do not step on wildflowers, and do not pick wildflowers. Only walk on designated trails, and take only photos and memories home with you! Please leave the desert as you find it, so that our future generations can enjoy it too. THANK YOU!

Please, do not pick wildflowers, and DO NOT STEP ON WILDFLOWERS!

Product Recommendation

Enhance your Diamond Valley Lake adventure with these essential products:

1. Compact Binoculars for Adults and Kids: These high-powered large eyepiece binoculars offer exceptional magnification with 12x power and a 25mm objective lens, providing a wide field of view of 273ft/1000yds for an expansive viewing experience. Featuring FMC Broadband coating and premium BAK4 prism, they ensure lifelike imaging and clarity. The adjustable eye cups cater to both eyeglass wearers and non-wearers, with a comfortable viewing experience guaranteed by the long eye relief and large eyepieces. The binoculars boast FMC Broadband Coating Technology, enhancing image quality further. Their portable, compact design makes them ideal for various outdoor activities like bird watching, camping, and wildlife observation. They’re also durable, waterproof, and come with a comfortable rubber armor grip. Suitable for adults and children alike, these binoculars make an excellent gift choice for occasions like Father’s Day or Children’s Day.
2. California Trees & Wildflowers: a concise yet comprehensive handbook designed to unlock the wonders of California’s botanical landscape. Featuring over 140 common plant species, including iconic Redwoods, this guide offers a window into the state’s rich biodiversity. Laminated for durability and accompanied by an ecoregion map highlighting botanical sanctuaries, it’s the perfect companion for educators, naturalists, and anyone eager to deepen their understanding of California’s diverse flora. Made in the USA, this pocket-sized guide is a testament to quality and convenience, ensuring it’s always at hand for outdoor exploration and botanical discovery.
3. Wildflowers of California Field Guide: Immerse yourself in the beauty of California’s wildflowers with Laird R. Blackwell’s expert guide. Offering a month-by-month approach, it helps you find wildflowers in bloom throughout the state. With over 650 color photographs, detailed driving and walking directions, and insights into the natural history of each flower, this guide is a visual delight. Whether you’re a seasoned wildflower enthusiast or a novice, this guide enhances your experience with its comprehensive information.
4. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen: Safeguard your skin during your desert escapade with Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen. With a broad spectrum SPF 70, this water-resistant and non-greasy lotion provides effective protection against the sun’s rays. Ensure you stay comfortable and protected throughout your outdoor adventures with this trusted sunscreen.

These products are curated to enrich your Diamond Valley Lake experience, offering guidance, protection, and a deeper connection to the captivating landscapes.

Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars for Adults and Kids – Large Eyepiece Waterproof Binoculars for Bird Watching – High Powered Easy Focus Binoculars with Low Light Vision for Outdoor Hunting Travel

California Trees & Wildflowers: A Folding Pocket Guide to Familiar Plants (Wildlife and Nature Identification)

Wildflowers of California: A Month-by-Month Guide

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant and Non-Greasy Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 70, 3 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

The Wildflowers Of Diamond Valley Lake

The wildflowers at Diamond Valley Lake include many species, from California poppies, Arroyo lupines, and tidy tips, to Canterbury bells and more. These flowers bloom in several colors, from deep purples and blues to bright yellows and oranges. They create a stunning mosaic of color against the backdrop of the surrounding hills and mountains.

As part of the admission fee, you will also receive a brochure detailing all the wildflowers you can find on the trail. It makes a great way to involve kids and have them do a scavenger hunt to keep them interested! So bring a pen with you!

Some of my captures at Diamond Valley Lake

The brochure lists 16 wildflowers that you can find. I didn’t capture all of them, but below is a gallery of some of my wildflower trail pictures. Which is your favorite? Comment below!

For those of you on a wildflower hunt this spring, don’t forget to check out these blog posts for inspiration! And if you are interested in buying prints, feel free to visit my wall art store.