Due to the recent snow, rain and warm weather, there is likely to be several spectacular flowerings in the Southern California deserts. We are hoping for one right here in Joshua Tree National Park. One to possibly put on your destinations calender though, is the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve near Palmdale. We are thinking of trying it for the first week of April. Just for your information however, the California poppy is not that great for making opium, so don't get your hopes up for that. I only add this since many would suggest that busnuts are having pipe dreams.
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=627