At a glance
Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together in Joshua Tree National Park. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a 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!
Things to do: Auto and ATV · Scenic Driving · Astronomy · Stargazing · Biking · Camping · Backcountry Camping · Car or Front Country Camping · Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use) · Group Camping · Climbing · Rock Climbing · Food · Picnicking
ParkAtlas, maintained by Stellaroos, combines its park and trail dataset with public information from the National Park Service. NPS data snapshot retrieved . Fees, access, and conditions can change; verify current details with NPS before traveling.
Popular trails
Curated routes with approximate round-trip distance. Tap one to log it in the app.In the app, tap one to log it.
Camping
Approximately 500 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (October – May).
Best time to visit
Peak season: October – May. The park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities close or run reduced hours in winter.
Days are typically clear with less than 25% humidity. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average highs around 85°F (29°C) and average lows around 50°F (10°C) respectively. Winter brings cooler days, around 60°F (15°C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are hot, over 100°F (38°C) during the day and not cooling much below 75°F (24°C) at night.
Pack for Joshua Tree
Four things worth having for desert heat and long exposed miles. From the full gear list; links support ParkAtlas.
Outdoor Research Echo sun hoodie
Sun protection without the sunscreen-on-your-arms routine. Dries in minutes.
See on Amazon →
LMNT electrolytes
Water alone isn't enough on a hot day. One packet per bottle.
See on Amazon →
Sun Bum sunscreen
High elevation sun is not the sun you're used to. Reapply at lunch.
See on Amazon →
YETI Rambler bottle
Ice at the trailhead is still ice back at the car.
See on Amazon →
Entrance fees
- Entrance - Private Vehicle — 7-day vehicle permit, admitting the passengers of a single, non-commercial vehicle on the day of purchase and for the next six days.$30
- Entrance - Motorcycle — Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.$25
- Entrance - Per Person — 7-day entrance fee, per person on foot or bike.$15
Annual Entrance - Park: $55. An America the Beautiful pass ($80/yr) covers every national park.
Getting there
Nearest city: Palm Springs, CA. Park center: 33.880°, -115.900°.
From I-10, take exit 117 for CA Hwy 62 toward 29 Palms/Yucca Valley. This will allow you to access the West Entrance, the North Entrance, Black Rock, and Indian Cove. Take exit 168 off I-10 to come in at the park's South Entrance.
Coming from a big city? See every park near San Diego or Los Angeles.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Joshua Tree National Park?
Entrance - Private Vehicle: $30. Entrance - Motorcycle: $25. Entrance - Per Person: $15.
When is the best time to visit Joshua Tree?
Peak season is October – May. The park is open year-round, with some roads and facilities on reduced winter schedules. Days are typically clear with less than 25% humidity. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average highs around 85°F (29°C) and average lows around 50°F (10°C) respectively. Winter brings cooler days, around 60°F (15°C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are hot, over 100°F (38°C) during the day and not cooling much below 75°F (24°C) at night.
Can you camp in Joshua Tree National Park?
Yes — about 500 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reserve ahead in peak season.
What is the closest city to Joshua Tree National Park?
Palm Springs, CA is the nearest major city. From I-10, take exit 117 for CA Hwy 62 toward 29 Palms/Yucca Valley. This will allow you to access the West Entrance, the North Entrance, Black Rock, and Indian Cove. Take exit 168 off I-10 to come in at the park's South Entrance.
What are the best hikes in Joshua Tree?
Popular trails include Hidden Valley Loop Trail (1.0 mi), Ryan Mountain Trail (3.0 mi), Boy Scout Trail (16.4 mi), Barker Dam Loop Trail (1.4 mi). The park has roughly 190 named trails.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.