About Joshua Tree National Park
Located in southeastern California, Joshua Tree National Park is known for its stunning desert landscapes and unique rock formations. The park covers more than 790,000 acres and is named after the Joshua tree, a type of yucca that grows throughout the region.
The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, rattlesnakes, and desert tortoises. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, go rock climbing, stargaze at night, and more.
Getting There
Joshua Tree National Park is located about 140 miles east of Los Angeles and 30 miles north of Palm Springs. The park is accessible via several highways, including I-10 and CA-62.
If you’re flying into the area, the closest airports are Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) and Ontario International Airport (ONT). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park.
When to Go
The best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park is in the fall and spring when temperatures are mild and the park is less crowded. Summer temperatures can reach well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.
If you’re planning to stargaze, the winter months are also a great time to visit. The park is known for its dark skies and excellent views of the stars.
Things to Do
There are plenty of things to do in Joshua Tree National Park, including:
- Hiking: The park has more than 100 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous climbs.
- Rock Climbing: Joshua Tree is a popular destination for rock climbers, with thousands of routes to choose from.
- Stargazing: The park’s dark skies make it an ideal spot for stargazing. You can even attend a ranger-led astronomy program.
- Scenic Drives: There are several scenic drives in the park, including the Keys View Road and the Park Boulevard Loop.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and desert tortoises.
Where to Stay
There are several campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park, as well as lodging options in nearby towns. Some of the popular campgrounds include:
- Joshua Tree National Park Campgrounds: The park has several campgrounds, including Black Rock, Indian Cove, and Jumbo Rocks. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
- Private Campgrounds: There are also several private campgrounds outside the park, including Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground and Hidden Valley Campground.
- Lodging: If you prefer not to camp, there are several lodging options in nearby towns, including Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree.
Tips for Visiting
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to Joshua Tree National Park:
- Bring plenty of water: The desert can be extremely hot and dry, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be intense in the desert, so it’s important to protect your skin and eyes.
- Watch for wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife while hiking or driving. You may see bighorn sheep, coyotes, and other animals.
- Leave no trace: Help preserve the park’s natural beauty by packing out your trash and following Leave No Trace principles.
- Be prepared: Make sure you have a map, plenty of water, and any necessary equipment for your chosen activity (such as rock climbing gear).
My Latest Posts
• • •
- Must-Stops in Joshua Tree National ParkLooking to take a drive through Joshua Tree National Park? Here are my must-stop locations that don’t involve much hiking. The park has three different …
- Day Trip to Joshua Tree ItineraryLast weekend my parents and I spent the day in Joshua Tree and here’s what we did.
• • •