California Valentine's Day getaways

Joshua Tree National Park 74485 National Park Drive Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 (760) 367-5500, www.nps.gov/jotr/

The recent rains may have made morning commutes harder, but it certainly didn't put a damper on this national park's foliage. Wildflowers have begun to bloom on the south end's Cottonwood Canyon entrance, just past Indio off of Interstate 10. Although the park doesn't have food service, romantics can always turn up the charm with pre-packed picnics from hometown farmers markets and bakeries. The holiday weekend also marks the kickoff of the spring season events, says park publicist Joe Zarki. Guided walking tours of the historic Keys Ranch and a natural history walk will be available for $5 each. Park admission costs $15 per vehicle; car camping at the park's six campgrounds costs $10 to $15 per night. Call (877) 444-6777 or go to www.recreation.gov for reservations.