The Goodwin Education Center is open from December 1 to May 31, Thursday through Sunday, from 9am to 4pm.
There is no entrance fee for visiting or camping at Carrizo Plain National Monument. However, a $1 nonrefundable reservation service fee applies for guided or self-guided tours of Painted Rock.
From Los Angeles, take Highway 58 east towards Bakersfield, then turn south onto Soda Lake Road, immersing yourself in a pristine natural habitat untouched by time.
Parking is available in small lots and along roads, especially at campgrounds and main areas. Limited trailer and RV parking in already impacted areas. No parking fees, but overnight parking only in designated campsites. Motorcycles permitted in these areas. High clearance vehicles recommended for some roads.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the heart of California, the Carrizo Plain National Monument unfolds as a vast, untouched tapestry of native grasslands, woodland habitats, and vernal pools. Spanning nearly 250,000 acres, this monumental landscape is a haven for both wildlife and those seeking an authentic immersion in nature. Located east of Santa Margarita in San Luis Obispo County, the Carrizo Plain is a realm where the rhythms of the wild remain unaltered.
At its center lies the seasonal Soda Lake, one of the largest alkali wetlands in the state, a stark yet beautiful contrast to the rolling hills and verdant plains. Here, the pronghorn antelope, North America’s fastest land animal, roams freely alongside condors, kit foxes, and the endangered blunt-nosed leopard lizard. The air is alive with the songs of migratory birds, as the Carrizo Plain is a critical stop along the Pacific Flyway.
Spring brings a kaleidoscope of color as wildflowers burst forth, painting the hillsides in vibrant hues. Visitors can explore this natural splendor via various hiking trails or visit Painted Rock, an ancient site adorned with rock art created by the region’s indigenous people. The nearby Goodwin Education Center offers interpretive programs and exhibits, while campsites scattered throughout the monument invite travelers to spend the night under the star-studded sky.
For those seeking more than just solitude, the area hosts various events and activities. Local outfitters provide guided tours and nature walks, while the surrounding landscape beckons with its untamed beauty. As the seasons change, the Carrizo Plain transforms, each phase offering a unique experience—from the blooming wildflowers of spring to the serene stillness of winter. This is a place where nature’s grandeur is palpable, and every visit feels like a rediscovery of the wild heart of California.
- Area (mi²)
- 386
- Annual visitors
- 67 000
- Established year
- 2001
Top 3 Facts about Carrizo Plain National Monument
This area is home to North America’s fastest land animal, the pronghorn antelope, which can reach speeds of up to 96 kilometers per hour. It also includes Painted Rock, an outcropping of rocks painted by native peoples, now a National Historic Landmark.
In this vast, untouched expanse, rare species thrive. The San Joaquin kit fox, giant kangaroo rat, and blunt-nosed leopard lizard find refuge here. Pronghorn antelope and Tule elk roam freely, while golden eagles and wintering birds like American white pelicans and sandhill cranes fill the skies. Spring brings a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, and the landscape is dotted with vernal pools and rolling grasslands, making it a paradise for both wildlife and wildflower enthusiasts.
At the heart of this vast grassland lies Soda Lake, a glistening bed of white salt, its surface reflecting the sky like a mirror. Surrounded by steep mountains, this seasonal alkali wetland is one of the largest in the state, offering a surreal landscape that transforms with the seasons. As spring arrives, the valley floor is carpeted with a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, a fleeting yet breathtaking spectacle. With its unique rock formations, including the ancient paintings at Painted Rock, this area is a testament to the untouched beauty of California’s natural heritage.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Scavenger Hunts
- Virtual Junior Activities
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during spring for wildflower blooms. Fill up on gas beforehand; no stations nearby. Stop at the visitor center for maps and trail advice. Bring water, high-clearance vehicle recommended. Plan for a day or two to explore trails and scenic roads. Pack meals and snacks as options are limited.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varying temperatures, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof tent if camping. Bring a multi-tool, headlamp, and extra batteries. Don’t forget a refillable water dispenser and sun protection. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid disrupting their natural behavior. Drive cautiously, obeying speed limits and watching for animals, especially during dawn and dusk when they are most active. Respect the fragile ecosystem by staying on designated trails and disposing of waste properly.【】
Stay Informed
Check weather forecasts and stay hydrated; avoid off-road driving and respect trail rules. For emergencies, call 911. Bring water, food, and a map to navigate dirt roads safely.
Seasons
Experience vibrant wildflowers in April and May, as rolling hills burst with green, yellow, and purple hues. Mild temperatures, around 60-70°F, and spring rains create a superbloom, a fleeting annual spectacle. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this brief but breathtaking event is a must-see.
Experience the vast, sun-kissed grasslands and Soda Lake’s white salt bed from June to August, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. While hot and dry, this period offers a unique, untouched beauty. No specific summer events, but the stark landscapes are a sight to behold. Be prepared for extreme heat.
In the fall, enjoy mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and clear skies. Witness the scenic transition of the landscape, though wildflowers are less abundant. No specific events are scheduled, but the solitude and crisp air make it an ideal time for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
Visit from November to April for cool winters, temperatures ranging from mid-30s to mid-60s, and occasional light snow. Experience tule fog and a serene, wet landscape, but be prepared for slippery roads and potential closures. A unique winter wonderland awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Carrizo Plain National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To be close to the monument, consider staying in Maricopa or Taft, California. Maricopa has options like Motel 8 Maricopa, which is very near the monument. Taft offers hotels such as Best Western Plus Taft Inn and Holland Inn & Suites, though they are a bit farther away.
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Dogs are allowed in external areas, parking areas, paved roads, campgrounds, and picnic areas, but they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. However, dogs are not permitted in the Painted Rock exclusion zone. They can accompany you while exploring the trails and wildflowers, but must be controlled at all times.
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You can park an RV, but be cautious as the roads are dirt and gravel, bumpy and uneven, especially after rain. High clearance vehicles are recommended. There are two primitive campgrounds, KCL and Selby, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
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The top attraction is Painted Rock, an outcropping of rocks painted by native peoples who once hunted and traded in the area. This site is a significant cultural and historical landmark. It is also a popular spot for visitors to explore and learn about the region’s rich history.