I have only been interested in Joshua Tree National Park for a few years now, despite having grown up in Southern California. My mom even admitted she has very little interest in Joshua Tree, which is why I went by myself! I don’t really think I knew it existed, honestly. In the past, it was under-represented when faced with other giants like Sequoia National Park, but it’s gained popularity recently.
I remember learning about Joshua Tree National Park during a biology course in undergrad; my professor talked about the Joshua trees in the Southwest. I have wanted to visit ever since, and I finally got the opportunity in December of 2019. I spent weeks researching and deciding what I wanted to do, and now I’d like to pass that research on to you. Let me know if you have any more questions, or if I left anything out!
I’ve visited places where I thought I had all the information I needed. But when I got there, there were things no one mentioned… and I do a lot of research. Some of it was my fault because I didn’t realize there were things I would need to research. For example, many of the trails and sights in Death Valley require some off-road driving! When I visited, I was driving my grandfather’s sport Mercedes. If I had known so many places needed a higher car or four-wheel drive, we would’ve rented a Jeep. Sure, places said four-wheel drive would be helpful, but they didn’t mention how bad the roads are. Especially considering how flat the roads look in pictures! In Joshua Tree, my “hmm” moment was the lack of showers. I knew there were no showers at the campsites, but almost no one talks about camping or where to shower, yet the sites usually fill up in busy times. So, I created a resource for every possible question I could think of when visiting Joshua Tree National Park. Whether you are camping, passing through, or looking for things to do, I think I can help. If it is helpful in any way, I would love if you shared it, followed me, or subscribed (here or on social media)!
Table of Contents
1. Where is Joshua Tree?
2. Things to do/Itineraries for Joshua Tree
3. Tours/events in Joshua Tree
4. Which Joshua Tree Entrance should I use and when?
5. When to visit Joshua Tree
6. Joshua Tree Hours & Fees
7. Is driving at night in Joshua Tree safe?
8. Where to park in Joshua Tree?
9. Off-roading/unpaved Roads in Joshua Tree
10. Photography in Joshua Tree
11. What amenities are available in Joshua Tree?
12. Is there cell service in Joshua Tree?
13. Where to eat near Joshua Tree
14. Can I bring my non-human friend (pet) to Joshua Tree?
15. Where can I stay in Joshua Tree?
16. Showers in Joshua Tree?!
17. Non-camping accommodations in Joshua Tree
18. Summary
Where is Joshua Tree National Park?
Joshua Tree National Park and the surrounding towns (Joshua Tree, Twentynine Palms, and Indio) are all within about an hour of Palm Springs, which is the closest airport. It’s just over two hours east of Los Angeles, and just under three hours from San Diego. What I am saying is, it’s a highly central National Park and a good destination for many people in the American Southwest!
Joshua Tree National Park’s main entrance (also called the preferred or West Entrance) is located just ten minutes from the town of Joshua Tree, California. The North entrance is three miles south of Twentynine Palms, and the South entrance is near Cottonwood Springs, East of Indio.
If you drive through Riverside (likely if you come from the Los Angeles area), stop at Oasis Vegetarian Café right next to La Sierra Natural Foods Market. Monty’s Good Burger and Plant Power Fast Food are other options for food there, but I loved Oasis’ taco special they were serving when I visited, so I am partial to them. Also, when I lived in Long Beach Plant Power was less than three blocks from my house, so I was looking for something more local and new! (Side note: I wasn’t impressed with their milkshakes, but the food I had was good.)
Another iconic stop on the drive from Los Angeles are the Cabazon dinosaurs – I didn’t stop, but I knew them when I saw them.
Itineraries for 1, 2, and 5 days in Joshua Tree National Park
Things to do in Joshua Tree including hiking, walking, climbing, viewing, and camping. My itineraries do not include much information on climbing because it’s not something I am versed in, but they can work as a starting off point for climbers!
Tours/events available in Joshua Tree National Park
1. Keys Ranch Guided Walking Tour was exceptional in my opinion. You get to “discover the colorful lives of Bill and Frances Keys and learn how they survived and raised a family in the harsh desert environment.” Additionally, the location is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so it’s has some awesome history!
It’s a half-mile over 90 minutes and only available certain days at certain times, and the tour is only offered between October and May. The days change over time, so you need to check on the NPS Calendar when they will be offered. You must buy tickets in advance at Recreation.gov, and tours are capped at 25 people. Tickets are $10/ 12+ year old, $5/ 6-11 year old, and free for ages younger than 6 (except when reserving it charges $1, so…). When I visited, tours were being offered Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday from 9:30am-11am, but Wednesday was the only day with tickets available, so planning is important.
You meet at a locked gate on the road to Keys Ranch, and once you go through the gate with the Park Ranger, the road is no longer paved; however, my grandfather’s low-to-the-ground Mercedes had no trouble, so I don’t think it will be an issue.
2. Ranger Chats are available on a variety of topics from November – February. Typically, the talks are at Oasis Visitor Center at 10am for 30 minutes but check the Calendar for updates. Every Thursday there is an evening talk (7:30pm) lasting 45 minutes at Jumbo Rocks Campground. Free and reservations are not needed.
3. Climber Coffee occurs Saturday and Sunday (November – February) from 8am-10am in Hidden Valley Campground at Intersection Rock. Rangers, climbers, and stewards gather for free coffee and conversation. Free and reservations are not needed.
Which entrance should I use and when?
The main entrance will undoubtedly be backed up on weekends between February and May because that is Joshua Tree National Park’s busiest time. If you can, visit on a weekday for quicker entrance and fewer people during this time period. Outside of this time, the West Entrance is closest to all the main attractions, with the North Entrance coming in a close second. The South Entrance is about an hour from the main sights, and I would only recommend that if you want to drive through the whole park or if you will be in Joshua Tree for more than a couple of days (which I recommend). Also use the South Entrance for Cottonwood Springs, Lost Palms Oasis Trail, Mastodon Peak Loop Trail, and Bajada Nature Trail.
If everything is in the Northern area, why should I use the South Entrance?
Everything in the southern part of Joshua Tree National Park is completely different than the northern part. In the northern area, you see what most people think of when they think of Joshua Tree – thousands of Joshua trees and massive rock formations. This area falls in the Mojave Desert, while the southern area falls in the Sonoran (aka Colorado) Desert. Instead of Joshua trees, scenery is flatter, with ocotillo, cholla cactus, and palm trees by the oases.
If you only choose the one-day Joshua Tree itinerary, I would encourage you to try driving through the southern area so you can at least see the cactus and trees, even if you do not hike any of those trails. You can exit this way (or enter) and return to your destination in little time.
Best time to visit Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree is located where the Sonoran and Mojave deserts meet, so summers here can be unbearably hot. Likewise, winters can be freezing (December through February). The most predictable and comfortable weather is in October, November, March, and April. Does that mean you shouldn’t go any other time? Of course not! I go anywhere anytime I can. I do confess I visited in December and was happy; however, I slept with three blankets and hiked with a jacket on (to start), so it may be too cold for others! Whenever you visit, make sure you are prepared for a desert trip (water, layers, food, etc.).
Joshua Tree National Park Hours & Fees
The park itself is open 24/7, so getting in before sunrise or after sunset for pictures or stargazing is do-able. The visitor centers and entrance booths are only open certain times, though. To enter the park, you will need to purchase a pass, which is $30/car, $25/motorcycle, and $15/walker or bicyclist. This pass can be bought at the entrance booths. If you enter the park when those places are closed, but exit when one is open, you will still have to purchase a pass if exiting by a booth. Single passes are good for seven consecutive days from purchase date.
America the Beautiful Pass
If you plan on visiting more than two National Parks in one year, I HIGHLY recommend purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass. You can buy them online or at REI if you are a member. If you visit Death Valley National Park plus Joshua Tree, you are already at $55, so it might take some foresight before finalizing this decision. It was an easy decision for me as we stopped at every park possible during our road trip from California to North Carolina (even if we had to shorten it).
Is it safe to drive at night/Getting to Joshua Tree?
To reach the North or West Entrance, use Highway 62. For the South Entrance, the 10 will be your best bet.
There is no light in the park, or on most roads to and from the park. There is also no median on Highway 62, but there is one on the 10. If you are uncomfortable driving in such conditions, make sure to leave Joshua Tree early enough to make it to your destination, or stay overnight. I personally loved driving in the dark and found it safe enough, but there were few people on the roads when I was there.
Where is parking in Joshua Tree?
Parking is very clear in Joshua Tree. There are spots at all the attractions, major or minor. There are parking lots at places that are often busy, such as hiking routes. Parking is also available at campsites.
Are any roads unpaved or hard to drive on?
There are unpaved roads in Joshua Tree, but you don’t need to detour on them for the popular sights! If you have a higher and/or four-wheel drive vehicle, these are nice drives, but you don’t have to worry about getting places if you do not have a car for off-roading. Roads where a special vehicle may be necessary include Berdoo Canyon Road, Black Eagle Mine Road, Covington Flat, Geology Tour Road, Old Dale Road, Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Roads (the most challenging), and Queen Valley Roads. If you plan on off-roading at all, make sure you have food, water, and resources for an emergency.
I want some amazing pictures from Joshua Tree National Park. Do you have any tips?
There are plenty of “Best Instagram Spots in Joshua Tree” posts, but I don’t go to a place for Instagram. My goal is amazing pictures FOR ME. For me to learn, grow, and have some awesome pictures to look back on and share here. Any of the top spots in Joshua Tree are going to be good photo spots, but the best pictures will depend on lighting, overcast, and time of day. It takes a good bit of practice, but definitely get a picture with a Joshua tree, cholla cactus, and rock formation.
Three general tips:
1. If you stay through a night, I do recommend bringing extra batteries, as it gets cold at night! Cold drains batteries more quickly.
2. Additionally, you can get some beautiful photos at night. Make sure to bring a tripod and remote so the pictures are steady (this goes for daytime photos too, even though I didn’t use either. Do as I say, not as I do)!
3. Set the ISO between 1600-3200 and play with shutter speed to see what is captured. A tripod and remote are especially important here.
If you are invested in photography in Joshua Tree, I highly admire Casey’s pictures. I didn’t take any of his courses, nor am I sponsored or get anything from recommending him, but I think his pictures speak to his ability to help you with photography.
The National Park Association: Desert Institute also offers some wonderful courses (on more than just photography).
What amenities are available in Joshua Tree National Park?
There are campsites and restrooms at many stops in Joshua Tree National Park. However, there is no food, restaurants, showers, hotels, etc. in the park itself. Potable water is available a few places: the Oasis Visitor Center in Twentynine Palms, the West Entrance station, Black Rock Campground, Cottonwood Campground, and Indian Cove Ranger Station. Don’t rely on these as they are on the outskirts of the Park. There are also no gas stations in the National Park, so make sure to fill up before heading in!
In my definition of amenities, I am including internet and cell service. It’s basically non-existent in Joshua Tree National Park. I remember walking back to my car from Arch Rock – my phone started buzzing, and I was alarmed. It turns out, I forget to turn the service off, and I stumbled into a spot of service. It was my second day there, and I had just gotten texts from two days before. When I took one step – no joke – in either direction, I lost the signal. So, when I recommend you download offline maps and take a paper map, I mean it!
If there’s no cell service, what do I do in an emergency?
You can still try calling 911 first. When an emergency call is activated, the phone tries to find the closest/strongest signal available. If the call fails, the good news is Joshua Tree is quite busy, so there will likely be another person in the vicinity. Emergency phones are located at the ranger station in Indian Cove and at the parking lot at Intersection Rock, near Hidden Valley Campground.
One tip to ensure safety (especially if you are alone), is telling someone your plans. If you let them know your plans and an estimated return time, you will have someone immediately begin looking if you aren’t back within a few hours of that time.
There are a billion and one tips I could give you for staying safe in a National Park, but the biggest suggestion I can give you is to plan ahead (e. g. bring a satphone or personal GPS locator) and keep a level head.
If I can’t eat in Joshua Tree National Park, where do I eat?
I brought my own food for most of my five-day trip, but there are tons of vegan options in the surrounding towns! Natural Sisters Café is a vegan and vegetarian place open from 7am – 2pm daily, so you can stop for breakfast, then pick up lunch and dinner too! Crossroads Café is open from 7am-9pm daily except Sunday (2pm close). They have some nice vegan options alongside omnivorous food.
Can I bring my cat/dog/lizard/etc. into the National Park?
Non-human animals are allowed in Joshua Tree. I saw two dogs and a cat in the park, but specific rules must be followed. They must always be on leashes no longer than 6 feet, they may not go more than 100 feet from any road, picnic area, or campground, and they are not permitted in the backcountry or on trails. Leave no trace applies here as well for droppings. These rules are essential to preserving the integrity and natural life inside the park.
If you are traveling with your furry (or feathered or scaled… or?) friend and can’t abide by these guidelines, there is a pet resort near the West Entrance called Joshua Tree Pet Resort with great reviews. You will need to call to check for non-furry friend prices and availability.
Where can I stay in Joshua Tree National Park?
As I mentioned, there are no hotels, motels, or hostels, but there ARE plenty of campsites*, which I love! I stayed at the Jumbo Rocks Campground (I would have liked water, but I brought a couple of my own big jugs), but there are many others, so never fear!
Most sites fill up on weekends from October to May (and even during the week in the springtime – there were maybe ten when I went from Monday-Friday). Family sites are first-come, first-served, while group sites require reservations. Reservations for either can be made up to 6 months in advance and can be booked on recreation.gov. Sites range from $15-$20/night. Three sites offer group camping: Cottonwood, Indian Cove, and Sheep Pass. All sites have family campsites.
Two sites with water, flush toilets, and a dump site: Black Rock and Cottonwood
Belle Campground: 18 sites, $15, pit toilets, tables, fire grates, and no water.
Black Rock Campground: 99 sites, $20, water, flush toilets, tables, fire grates, and a dump station. I don’t recommend this site because it’s far removed from the entrances.
Cottonwood Campground: 62 sites, group sites are available up to 25 people (reservation only). Water, flush toilets, tables, fire grates, and a dump station.
Hidden Valley Campground: 44 sites, $15, pit toilets, tables, fire grates, and no water.
Indian Cove Campground: 101 sites, group sites are available up to 25 people (reservation only). $20, pit toilets, tables, fire grates, and no water.
Jumbo Rocks Campground: 124 sites, $15, pit toilets, tables, fire grates, and no water.
Ryan Campground: 31 sites, $15, pit toilets, tables, fire grates, and no water.
Sheep Pass Campground: 6 group sites only (reservation only). $35-50 depending on site capacity, pit toilets, tables, fire grates, and no water.
White Tank Campground: 15 sites, $15, pit toilets, tables, fire grates, and no water.
*If you are looking to reserve an ADA accessible campsite please look at Jumbo Rocks Campground, site 122, and Black Rock Campground, site 61, which are ADA accessible.
WAIT! I just realized… NO SHOWERS??
If you stay for longer than a day, you may want to shower, but as you probably noticed, there are no showers at any of the campsites. However, you can visit Coyote Corner, right across from Joshua Tree Visitor Center, for a shower during your stay if you wish! Not only do they have showers for $5/8 minutes, but they also have local jewelry, books, t-shirts, hoodies, and… you get the idea. It’s a souvenir shop and a rest stop! Thanks to a reader who has been recently, we have been informed that Coyote Corner has closed the showers indefinitely. This development means if you want to shower, you’ll either need to stay in lodgings outside the park or bring a solar/camp shower. When I learn if/when Coyote Corner re-opens their showers, I will re-update.
Where are the campsites in relation to the sights?
I made this map using one from the National Park Service but made the sights and camps more obvious. Keep in mind when looking at it that Cottonwood Springs is over 45 minutes from Arch Rock, the closest popular sight in the northern part of the park. It’s closer to an hour from the Hall of Horrors.
No camping for me, thanks. Where else can I stay?
Booking.com has long been my favorite resource for finding the perfect place to stay. I used it in Europe for hostels, and I use it in the United States anytime I take a trip. It’s also great for price-checking in conjunction with other sites, but I tend to go with Booking.com in the end. As I mentioned, I camped, but I did some research on other places to stay, and below are some recommendations based on price brackets. (*Note: I don’t get anything from these links; I just like Booking.com)
If you are into hostels, Crashpod Hostel near Palm Springs has some good reviews. They also have a few poor reviews, but I would give it a chance based on what people are saying. Most complaints are about construction going on. It is a bit expensive for a single bed in a shared room, but you get access to a kitchen, showers, and laundry which could help save money (depending on which itinerary you choose). They also offer one double room with two twin beds, which makes it a great deal for more than one person traveling.
If hostels aren’t your thing, another budget option is High Desert Motel with nearly 800 reviews averaging “good,” which in my experience is great for me.
For budgets, be aware of places like View at the Top, the Castle House Estate, and Green Oasis where your price increases with cleaning fees (they are all Air BnB properties). If that doesn’t bother you, these are all great options! I love Air BnB places but can personally only afford them when I am feeling splurge-y. If you don’t want to be charged that fee, hotels won’t have them. Hotels are plentiful in Indio and Twentynine Palms, but you could also drive an hour to Palm Springs if you prefer.
Summary
| Where is Joshua Tree National Park? | Southern California, under two hours east of Los Angeles |
| What things can you do in Joshua Tree National Park? | See the 5-day itinerary for the most options. |
| What events or tours are available in Joshua Tree National Park? | Keys Ranch Guided Tour, Ranger Chats, and Climber Coffee |
| Which entrance should I use from June to January? | The North Entrance or South Entrance |
| Which entrance should I use from February to May? | The West Entrance |
| Why go to the South of the Park? | There is a change in scenery with palm trees, ocotillo, and cacti. |
| When’s the best time to go for premium comfort? | Oct-Nov or Mar-Apr |
| When’s the best time to go for less crowd, but still be comfortable? | December or May, especially during the week |
| When is Joshua Tree National Park open? | 24/7 |
| When are the Visitor Centers open? | 8 am- 5 pm (Cottonwood near South entrance closes at 4pm) |
| How much are the fees to enter Joshua Tree National Park? | $30/car, $25/motorcycle, and $15/walker or bicyclist |
| How do I get to Joshua Tree National Park? | Highway 62 for the North or West Entrances; the 10 for the South |
| Is it safe to drive at night? | There is no light or median on Highway 62. There is a median, but no light on the 10. |
| Where do I park? | There are lots and pull outs at the major stops. |
| Are any roads unpaved or hard to drive on? | There are a few, but none on that interfere with main attractions. |
| Photography tips? | Bring extra batteries, a tripod, and a remote. |
| What amenities are available in Joshua Tree National Park? | Campsites and restrooms. Potable water at a few places. |
| What do I do in an emergency without service? | Get to a ranger station or emergency phone. |
| Where do I eat? | Natural Sisters Café and Crossroads Café |
| What about my non-human traveling companion? | Non-human animals are allowed but not in many places in the park. There is pet care offered outside the park. |
| Where can I stay? | One of 9 campsites or accommodation in the surrounding towns (Joshua Tree, Twentynine Palms, and Indio). |
| If I camp, where do I shower? | Coyote Corner |
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Joshua Tree is so high on my bucket list. Next time I go to SoCal, I am definitely making my way there. This is such a helpful and informative guide. 🙂
Yesss, it’s so fantastic! And so flexible depending on what you want too. I’d love to hear about your experience when you make it – I’m glad my guide and I could be of help 🙂