What to know before heading out to see the Superbloom

Another “Superbloom” is likely on the way after heavy rains drenched the valley. Mini blooms are starting to pop up all over the Anza Borrego Desert bringing flocks of tourists to the small town of Borrego Springs.

In 2017 the community of Borrego Springs reached overcapacity with as many as 30,000 tourists trekking to the state park each day to check out blooming lupine, sand verbena, desert sunflowers, lilies and other species.

Park ranger and interpreter LuAnn Thompson said people heading to the park “should come ready for anything,” including packing all essentials like extra water, food, and layered clothing.

She also suggests people research maps, routes and attractions beforehand because GPS and cellular connection is unreliable throughout the massive park.

Visitors can expect heavy traffic getting into the park as well as long lines at eateries and sold out accommodations. Guests planning to stay overnight should look into lodging beforehand or know camping rules and restrictions.

Two years ago social media brought a major spike in awareness to the beauty of the park and the blooming wildflowers — but left the few restaurants, gas stations and hotels unprepared.

“We were running out of ice, water…restaurants were running out of food,” said restaurant owner Andy Macuga.

He said this time around local businesses are “doubling up” on supplies, water, food and even bringing in more mobile bathroom facilities.