Forget crowded beaches and overpriced tourist traps—let’s take the road less traveled this Spring. There’s something magical about desert springtime—soft breezes, wildflowers in bloom, and star-filled skies that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Spring is the season to explore the desert before the scorching summer heat kicks in and while nature is still waking up in full color.
From towering canyon walls to white dunes, saguaro-studded trails, and fossilized forests, these parks offer a perfect blend of adventure, beauty, and solitude.
And bonus: Spring brings the best weather, which is ideal for hiking, camping, and simply soaking it all in.
In this post, we’re exploring six unforgettable destinations that rank among the best national parks to visit in spring: Big Bend, Death Valley, White Sands, Saguaro, Joshua Tree, and Petrified Forest. Whether you hit one or string them together into an epic road trip, this is the desert season at its best.
Table of Contents
Big Bend National Park, Texas
Let’s kick things off with a true hidden gem—Big Bend National Park, tucked along the Texas-Mexico border. This place has it all: rugged mountains, desert plains, river canyons, and skies so dark you’ll see stars you didn’t even know existed.
Why Visit in Spring?
Spring is prime time in Big Bend. With temps ranging from the 60s to low 80s, it’s perfect for hiking, exploring, and river adventures—before the blazing heat of summer rolls in. Plus, desert wildflowers bloom, splashing color across the dusty terrain. It is one of the busiest seasons in the park.
Top Things to Do
- Black Gap Road – One of the park’s most rugged backcountry roads, this route is perfect for high-clearance 4×4 adventurers looking for an off-the-beaten-path thrill.
- Fossil Discovery Exhibit – A fascinating (and family-friendly) stop that tells the story of Big Bend’s prehistoric past. You’ll see life-sized fossil replicas.
- Scenic Byways and Dirt Roads – You don’t need to hike every mile to experience Big Bend’s beauty. Drive the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive for panoramic views, or venture onto dirt roads like Old Maverick Road or Dagger Flat Auto Trail for a more remote experience.
- Soak in the Hot Springs – Just steps from the Rio Grande, these natural springs offer a peaceful riverside soak surrounded by desert views and history.
- Stargazing – The International Dark-Sky Association designated Big Bend as one of the darkest places in the country. You will feel like you’re floating in space on a clear night.
- Explore Santa Elena Canyon – Towering cliffs and a winding river make this one of the park’s most iconic spots. Hike the short trail or paddle into the canyon for an unforgettable view.
Death Valley National Park, California + Nevada
It may be the hottest, driest place in North America, but Death Valley in Spring is surprisingly full of life. With otherworldly landscapes and comfortable temps, it’s a desert adventure you’ll never forget.
Why Visit in Spring?
Mild weather (70s–80s during the day, cooler at night) makes Spring the ideal time to explore. Bonus: if there’s been decent winter rain, you might witness a wildflower superbloom—a rare, spectacular burst of desert color.
Top Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
- Stargazing – Death Valley is also a Dark Sky Park, and the wide-open desert makes for incredible night sky viewing—plan for a Milky Way sighting!
- Artist’s Palette – A short scenic drive leads to technicolor hills, where mineral deposits paint the rocks in shades of pink, green, and purple.
- Zabriskie Point – Sunrise here is nothing short of surreal. The golden badlands glow as the first light hits—don’t miss it.
- Badwater Basin – Walk across the striking salt flats at the lowest point in North America—282 feet below sea level.
- Dante’s View – One of the best panoramic views in the park, overlooking Badwater Basin from 5,500 feet up.
- Star Wars in Death Valley – Explore filming locations from Star Wars: A New Hope! Stops like Golden Canyon and Artist’s Palette doubled as the surface of Tatooine—perfect for fans.
White Sands National Park, New Mexico
If you’ve never seen a desert made entirely of white gypsum sand, you’re in for a treat. White Sands feels like another world—smooth, shimmering dunes as far as the eye can see.
Why Visit in Spring?
Spring weather is mild (60s–70s), with fewer visitors than summer. It’s the perfect time for sand sledding, hiking, or simply enjoying the surreal beauty of this unique landscape.
Top Things to Do
- Dunes Drive – A scenic 8-mile route (16-mile round-trip) through the heart of the dunes, with plenty of spots to stop and explore.
- Sand Sledding – Rent a sled at the visitor center and slide down the silky slopes—it’s not just for kids!
- Sunset & Moonlight Walks – The dunes glow with soft, magical hues as the light fades.
- Fossilized Footprints – Check out ancient trackways preserved in the park’s landscape—some dating back thousands of years, offering a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life.
Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Nothing says “Southwest spring” like blooming saguaro cacti under a golden sky. Saguaro National Park is a warm-weather paradise divided into two districts around Tucson.
Why Visit in Spring?
The desert is alive this time of year—wildflowers bloom, saguaros begin to flower, and wildlife is more active. Temperatures are ideal for hiking and photography, especially in the early morning or evening.
Top Things to Do
- Scenic Loop Drives! – Cruise the Cactus Forest Scenic Loop Drive, an 8-mile paved route with epic desert views, or take the Scenic Bajada Loop Drive, a 6-mile unpaved, graded dirt road through the park’s West District.
- Signal Hill Petroglyphs – Walk among ancient rock art while soaking up sunset views.
- Desert Discovery Nature Trail – Family-friendly and informative, great for first-time visitors.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
A land of strange trees, epic rock formations, and unforgettable sunrises—Joshua Tree is one of California’s most iconic parks, and Spring is when it truly shines.
Why Visit in Spring?
Before summer heat takes over, enjoy perfect hiking temps and blooming wildflowers scattered across the desert floor. The park is also a favorite for rock climbers and stargazers.
Top Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
- Keys View – Take sweeping panoramic views of the Coachella Valley from this stunning overlook. The sunset here is at the next level.
- Skull Rock – A quirky, naturally sculpted rock formation right off the road—fun photo op and a short trail to stretch your legs.
- Cholla Cactus Garden – Walk through a dense patch of spiky, glowing cholla cacti—especially magical during golden hour.
- Joshua Trees – Wander among the park’s iconic namesake trees—twisted, spiky, and otherworldly in every direction.
- Berdoo Canyon Offroad Trail – A rugged off-road adventure route for high-clearance vehicles that winds through desert canyons and old mining sites.
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Looking for something completely different? Head to Petrified Forest, where you can touch ancient fossilized trees and see multicolored badlands—all with the quiet serenity that comes with an underrated park.
Why Visit in Spring?
Spring brings clear skies and pleasant temps in the 60s–70s, making it perfect for hiking and exploring. Wildflowers and vibrant colors spread across the desert floor in the painted hills.
Top Things to Do
- Blue Mesa Trail – A short loop through stunning badlands and vibrant rock formations.
- Giant Logs Trail – A short, easy loop that gives a great introduction to the park’s ancient petrified wood—perfect for first-time visitors.
- Agate House Trail – A scenic hike leading to a partially reconstructed pueblo made entirely from petrified wood—history and views in one spot.
- Audio Tour – Enhance your visit with the park’s self-guided audio tour, available on your phone. It is great for learning about the park’s geology, fossils, and cultural history as you explore.
- Route 66 Pull-Off – Stand on a slice of American history (and spot a vintage car marking the old road).
Your Spring Southwest Adventure Awaits
From the wild canyons of Big Bend to the glowing gypsum dunes of White Sands, the Southwest is full of spring magic just waiting to be explored.
Whether you hit one or craft a road trip to connect them all, you’ll find something special in every corner of these desert landscapes.
What’s Your Favorite Spring Desert Park? We’d love to hear from you! Leave us a message and you might hear your story in our next podcast episode!
