Joshua Tree National Park

Overview

Joshua Tree National Park boasts an impressive, vast, and unique landscape. Its 800,000 acres encompass two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado. Visitors will find some of the most interesting geologic displays found in California’s deserts, ranging from rugged mountains of twisted rock to exposed granite monoliths that testify to the tremendous earth forces that shaped and formed this land. Playas, arroyos, bajadas, alluvial fans, pediments, desert varnish, granites, aplite, and gneiss interact to form a giant mosaic of stunning beauty and complexity. A fascinating variety of plants and animals also make their home in this land sculpted by strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California. Come explore for yourself!

To learn more about Joshua Tree National Park, visit www.nps.gov.

Local Info

Visitor Centers:

• Joshua Tree Visitor Center: Open 8 am to 5 pm, daily.
• Oasis Visitor Center: Open 8:30 am to 5 pm, daily.
• Cottonwoood Visitor Center: Open 8:30 am to 4 pm, daily.
• Black Rock Nature Center: Open 8 am to 4 pm, October through May.

Visiting Tips

Joshua Tree National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Visitation typically increases during the more moderate temperatures in the fall, peaks during the spring wildflower season, and declines during the heat of summer.

Fees & Passes:
To learn more about park fees, click here.

Purchase an annual pass for all national parks sites, $80

Camping & Lodging

Camping:
There are nine campgrounds located in the park. Most campsites are available on a first come, first served basis. During the busy season from October through May, reservations may be made for individual or family sites at Black Rock and Indian Cove Campgrounds. Group campsites should be reserved in advance. It is very likely for campgrounds to fill on weekends from fall through spring. To learn more about camping in the park, visit the park's website.

• White Tank Campground: 15 sites. Available on a first come, first served basis.
• Jumbo Rocks Campground: 124 sites. Available on a first come, first served basis.
• Belle Campground: 18 sites. Available on a first come, first served basis.
• Ryan Campground: 31 sites. Available on a first come, first served basis.
• Hidden Valley Campground: 44 sites.Available on a first come, first served basis.
• Indian Cove Campground: 101 sites. Available on a first come, first served basis June - September.
Reservations can be made October - May, online or by calling 1 (877) 444-6777.
• Black Rock Campground: 99 sites. Available on a first come, first served basis June - September. Reservations can be made October - May, online or by calling 1 (877) 444-6777.
• Sheep Pass Group Campground: 6 sites. Reservations can be made online or by calling 1 (877) 444-6777.
• Cottonwood Campground: 62 sites. Available on a first come, first served basis. 3 group sites. Reservations for group campsites can be made online or by calling 1 (877) 444-6777.

Backcountry Camping:
Backcountry camping is also an option for those looking to extend their stay in the park. Visit the park's website to learn more about backcountry camping rules and regulations.

Lodging:
There is no lodging available within Joshua Tree National Park. However, there are many options in the nearby towns. For more, information click here.

Food & Drink

There are no restaurants or grocery stores located in the park. A variety of dining options can be found in the nearby towns of 29 Palms, Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, and Indio.

Outfitters, Tours, & Shuttles

Guided Tours:
Joshua Tree National Park offers a variety of ranger-led programs that vary by season. All programs, unless otherwise specified, are free and open to the public. To learn more about these ranger-led programs and to see the current events calendar, click here.

REI Adventures:
REI offers over 30 national park trips led by expert guides capable of taking you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems that many visitors never see.

Check out REI Adventures' national park offerings here.

Other Activities

Joshua Tree National Park is home to a multitude of outdoor activities. Recreational opportunities include backpacking, camping, bird-watching, horseback riding, photography, stargazing, and wildflower viewing. No matter your interest, this beautiful desert park is sure to exceed your expectations whether you're planning your first visit to a national park or your fiftieth. Additionally, be sure to check out the world-class rock climbing and bouldering in the park. For those looking to extend their adventure beyond the park, check out the opportunities for mountain biking up the road in Palm Springs.

Maps & Guidebooks

To download a variety of free maps and brochures to help plan your trip, click here.