2024 Guide To The Best Bluebonnets In North Texas

March is almost over, and with it, the arrival of Texas bluebonnets! Get ready to embrace the beauty of Texas's state flower.

Typically, bluebonnets start blooming from mid to late March through April, varying slightly depending on the weather. With spring on the horizon and temperatures rising, it's time to start mapping out our bluebonnet adventures.

In 1901, the 27th Texas State Legislature officially designated the bluebonnet as the state flower. The 1930s saw a surge in bluebonnet presence thanks to the Texas Highway Department's beautification initiative, which involved planting bluebonnet seeds along the roads we still travel today.

Among the five species of Texas bluebonnets, two are indigenous to the state: L. texensis and L. subcarnosus. L. texensis, commonly known as the Texas Bluebonnet, thrives predominantly in central and north Texas, including the picturesque fields of Collin County.

Here’s where to find them

Plano Bluebonnet Trail

Did you know there’s a stunning bluebonnet trail right in Plano? It runs from Central Expressway to Midway Road then continues along Spring Creek Parkway and Chase Oaks Boulevard. Here is a map of the trail, courtesy of the city of Plano website.

Lord of Life Lutheran Church

Out front of the Lord of Life Lutheran Church at 3601 W 15th St, Plano (close to Medical City Plano), there's a small but abundant bluebonnet field, which are currently in bloom.

Warren Park’s Freedom Meadow

Freedom Meadow, located at 7599 Eldorado Parkway in Frisco, stands as a poignant tribute to the lives lost on September 11, 2001.

Maintained by the Frisco Fire Department, this serene space ensures a flourishing display of bluebonnets every April, thanks to its consistent watering. In 2019, the city of Frisco conducted a controlled burn to eradicate invasive grasses, fostering the growth of bluebonnets and other indigenous wildflowers in the vicinity.

Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center

Consider dedicating a day trip, or at least a few hours, to explore the Heritage Center. Spanning 2900 acres of hardwood forests and prairies, it offers ample opportunities to revel in the beauty of not only bluebonnets but also other indigenous Texas wildflowers.

Embark on the Wetlands Trail and relish the company of waterfowl, herons, and beavers. With an outer loop exceeding 3 miles in length, it's ideal for runners seeking a refreshing jog. Leashed dogs are welcome, and amenities such as restrooms and water fountains ensure a comfortable outing for the whole family.

Ennis

Located approximately an hour away from Collin County, holds the esteemed title of the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas. Each April, visitors have the opportunity to traverse over 40 miles of meticulously mapped bluebonnet trails. These trails remain open to the public throughout the month, with updates on peak bloom periods available on the City of Ennis website by the end of March.

The annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival, slated for April 8-12 this year, promises a delightful experience for all. Immerse yourself in live music, indulge in delectable fare and locally sourced wine, and partake in special activities tailored for the little ones.

State Parks

If you feel like taking a road trip, try a state park! They are often filled with fields of bluebonnets. For beautiful bluebonnet displays each spring, visit LBJ State Park, Inks Lake State Park, Pedernales Fall State Park, Palmetto State Park or Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.