Are ticks really that bad in California? Just moved here!

[RustyPine17]

I just relocated to California and I've heard mixed things about ticks out here. Should I be worried about them when hiking or enjoying the outdoors? Any local tips would be appreciated!

 

[Havasu]

Welcome!

I've found that ticks are only an issue in the spring. If you stay out of the tall brush, they are normally not a problem.

 

[xchecker]

Living in California my whole life, was a boy scout and backpack throughout Central and Southern California. I have never gotten a tick.
Also just spent 5 days Bass Lake, 25 miles south of Yosemite South entrance. We had bears, but no ticks

 

[Frank M]

Fleas will get you before the ticks will. Been in CA. for almost 60 years. Hunting, fishing, hiking, etc. and never got a tick. Fleas on the other hand can get bad in the summer.