Joshua Tree National Park, located in California, is known for its stunning desert landscapes and diverse recreational activities. Spanning over 800,000 acres, it offers a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. With nine campgrounds and numerous trails, it stands as a premier destination for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Campers flock to this park to experience its unique rock formations, diverse wildlife, and clear night skies. Whether hiking, rock climbing, or simply enjoying the serenity, Joshua Tree has something for everyone. Preparing for a trip to this natural wonder requires some planning, so let's delve into the essentials of camping in Joshua Tree National Park.
Joshua Tree National Park is a top camping destination, so reserving a campsite ahead of time is crucial. Reservations are available through recreation.gov and can be made up to 6 months in advance for individual campsites. For group or horse camping, reservations can be made up to a year ahead.
Peak Season: The busiest times are from October to May. Campgrounds often reach full capacity between mid-February and mid-May, especially around holidays. Booking early is essential during these months to secure a spot.
Off-Season: Visiting from June to September offers more availability, as campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, some campgrounds may be closed during the summer months, so checking the site’s operating schedule is important.
| Campground | Availability | Seasonal Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Belle | First-come, first-served | Closed during summer |
| Black Rock | Reservations recommended | Known for Joshua trees and bird-watching |
| Other Notable Sites | Mix of reservation and first-come | Check specific campground details |
Bell is perfect for those wanting a true nature experience without modern interruptions. Located at 3,800 feet, this campsite has minimal facilities: no water, pit toilets, fire grates, camping chairs, or picnic tables. It's a first-come, first-served area with untouched views of the night sky and no cell reception. Each site can accommodate up to three tents, six people, and two vehicles for a fee of $15.00.
Black Rock is one of the most equipped and popular campgrounds in Joshua Tree. With 100 campsites, including spots for horses, it provides amenities such as flush toilets, running water, and picnic tables. Located in the park’s northwest corner, it's close to the town of Yucca Valley. Campsites here are $20 per night. Reservations are recommended, especially between October and May.
Cottonwood Campground is adjacent to the Cottonwood Visitor Center and is 30 miles from Indio. It features 62 sites with flush toilets, potable water, fire grates, and picnic tables. Suitable for both individual and group camping, the fee is $20 per night or $40 for a group site. Reservations are advised from October to May.
Surrounded by large boulders and Joshua trees, Hidden Valley offers a true wilderness experience. With 44 campsites that operate on a first-come, first-served basis, the area lacks running water but provides pit toilets, fire grates, and picnic tables. The nightly fee is $15.
Located on the north side of Wonderland of Rocks, Indian Cove is one of the park’s largest campgrounds with 101 sites and 13 group sites. While it has basic amenities such as pit toilets, fire grates, and picnic tables, there is access to water at the Ranger Station at the entrance. Campsites are $20 per night, and group sites are $50. Reservations are suggested from October to May.
Jumbo Rocks lives up to its name with its central location among impressive rock formations. It boasts 124 sites at an elevation of 4,400 feet. Facilities include pit toilets, fire grates, and picnic tables but no water. Camping here costs $15 per night and can be reserved from October to May.
Ryan Campground offers 31 sites that are popular for their nighttime views. Located near the California Riding and Hiking Trail, it also includes four designated horse campsites requiring reservations. Amenities include pit toilets, fire grates, and picnic tables, but no water. The fee is $15 per night.
White Tank is among the smallest campgrounds in Joshua Tree, with only 15 sites. Located near the darkest part of the park, it offers stunning night sky views. Facilities include pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire grates. This first-come, first-served site charges $15 per night.
Sheep Pass is a group-only campground, situated centrally among scenic rock formations and Joshua trees. It has six group sites available by reservation only. Each site can host 10 to 60 people, making it ideal for large gatherings. The fee is $50 per night, with bookings available up to a year in advance.
Camping options outside Joshua Tree National Park are plentiful. Twentynine Palms RV Resort, Little Pioneertown RV, and Joshua Tree Retreat Center Campground are popular choices. These spots offer amenities like RV hookups, flush toilets, and showers. Chiriaco Summit and Palm Springs/Joshua Tree KOA are also notable, providing fire rings, picnic tables, and space for tents and trailers. Dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas outside the park.
You can make reservations for camping in Joshua Tree National Park online through the recreation.gov website or by calling their reservation line.
The best campsites for RV camping in Joshua Tree include Indian Cove, Black Rock, and Jumbo Rocks. These sites offer the necessary space and amenities for RVs.
Joshua Tree National Park does not offer cabin accommodations within the park. Visitors will need to bring their own camping gear or find lodging outside the park area.
The cost for camping in Joshua Tree National Park varies by campsite. Prices generally range from $15 to $25 per night.
Camping is only permitted in designated campgrounds within Joshua Tree National Park. Visitors must use established sites and not set up camp in random locations.
Overnight car camping is allowed in certain areas of Joshua Tree National Park.
It is important to check specific regulations and designated camping areas where this is permitted.