Every spring, Chino Hills State Park turns into something straight out of a painting—rolling green hills completely covered in bright yellow mustard flowers. It’s one of those places that makes you stop mid-hike and just say, “Whoa, is this real life?” .
If you’re in Southern California and looking for a stunning wildflower spot that’s not too far from LA, this is one of the best low-key gems around. Here’s everything I learned from visiting Chino Hills State Park in he spri—including a free way to get in, where to hike, and why you’ll want to bring your camera and your birdwatching buddy.
Chino Hills State Park Travel Guide:
Why Visit Chino Hills State Park in Spring?
From about March through early May, wild mustard takes over the hillsides at Chino Hills State Park, turning the landscape into a surreal yellow wonderland. It’s one of the few times this otherwise dry and rugged area feels lush and full of life. Pair that with song birds, butterflies, and the occasional tarantula sighting (yes, really), and you’ve got yourself a springtime adventure that feels like walking into a dream.
🌼 The Mustard Bloom (Chino Hills State Park Wildflowers)
Let’s talk flowers first—because that’s what everyone comes here for in the spring. The vast majority of the bright yellow blooms you’ll see are actually Black Mustard and Wild Radish, which are technically invasive species. But I have to admit… they do make for some dreamy hillside views.
That said, if you look closely, there are native wildflowers sprinkled throughout too! Some include:
- California Poppies – always a classic 🌼
- Arroyo Lupine – tall, purple, and so photogenic
- Canterbury Bells – dainty and violet-blue
- Redmaids – tiny magenta gems low to the ground
It’s a wildflower scavenger hunt out there—and totally worth slowing down to appreciate the little guys too.
These native species add beautiful variety and support local ecosystems, especially for pollinators.
🐦 Birdwatching at Chino Hills State Park
One thing I didn’t expect? Chino Hills is a surprisingly great birdwatching spot. On my hike, I saw Costa’s Hummingbirds zipping around, and there were swallows swooping overhead—it turns out they migrate through the park in spring!
Other cool sightings include:
- Red-tailed hawks soaring above the hills
- Golden eagles if you’re lucky
- Owls (early morning or sunset is your best chance)
- California quail and other songbirds like sparrows and the rare California gnatcatcher
Also… just a heads up: you might spot a tarantula or two. I know it sounds scary, but they’re not out to get you. Just keep your distance and let them mind their business.
Don’t forget binoculars if you’re into birding—there’s plenty to see here!
📍 Chino Hills State Park Location & Entrance Info
Chino Hills State Park sits on the border of four counties: San Bernardino, Orange, Riverside, and Los Angeles—making it super accessible for anyone in the greater SoCal area.
Main Entrance:
4721 Sapphire Rd, Chino Hills, CA 91709
This is the most convenient entrance, with parking lots, trail access, and bathrooms.
💵 Parking Costs & A Free Entry Hack:
Parking inside the park costs $10, and honestly? If you’re coming with a group or don’t want to walk a mile uphill just to reach the trailhead, it’s worth it.
BUT! If you want to save that ten bucks, here’s a pro tip:
You can check out a California State Parks Pass from many local public libraries. Yes, like a book. Just scan it at the entrance and boom—you’re in for free. It’s one of the coolest low-budget travel hacks in California.
Chino Hills Hiking Trails: Mustard Flower Viewing
The park covers over 14,000 acres with trails that range from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Since the mustard flowers tend to bloom along open hillsides, here are a few trails that offer some of the best views:
1. Bane Ridge Trail (Moderate – 3.5 miles round trip)
Starting from the Discovery Center, this trail offers panoramic views of the golden hills and is a great option for catching peak bloom.
2. Pomona Trail – 4.4 miles one-way, moderate
A less crowded trail that starts near the northeastern edge of the park. It offers rolling hills, great wildflower sightings, and more solitude than some of the central trails. It’s a great pick if you’re looking for a quieter hike that still has those iconic yellow hills.
- This is the hike I went on! Parked at Bane Canyon Road Scenic Overlook and hiked for around 2.5 miles out and back
3. South Ridge Trail (Moderate to Strenuous)
This ridge trail runs along the top of the hills and connects with several others, giving you flexibility to create your own loop. Views are expansive, and the flowers here are abundant.
4. Easy Loop Near Discovery Center (Beginner-Friendly)
If you’re short on time or visiting with kids, you can enjoy a short loop trail near the Discovery Center. You’ll still catch plenty of flowers, especially in early to mid-spring.
Heads up: Most trails have zero shade. So wear sunscreen, bring a hat, and carry water—especially as the weather starts heating up in late spring.
🌞 What’s It Like the Rest of the Year?
While spring is green and full of life, Chino Hills State Park turns bone-dry during the summer and fall. The trails are still accessible, but the intense heat, dry terrain, and lack of shade make it a much more difficult hike. If you’re not a fan of hiking in the heat, it’s best to visit before mid-May.
What to Bring
- Water (at least 1L per person)
- Sunscreen & hat
- Snacks or a picnic
- Good hiking shoes
- Camera or phone for photos
- Binoculars for birdwatching
- State Park Pass (if you checked one out)
📝 Final Thoughts
Chino Hills State Park really surprised me—in the best way. I went expecting a short spring hike and ended up spending hours exploring flower-covered hills, spotting birds, and enjoying the peaceful, open trails.
If you’re chasing wildflowers this spring, add this one to your list. And if you’ve already been, let me know your favorite trail or what you spotted out there!
See you on the trail 🌼✨
Have you visited Chino Hills during bloom season? Drop your tips or questions in the comments!
For more California Travel Inspiration, check out “ 10 Hidden Gem Destinations in California You Need to Visit” !
