This backcountry camping is the easiest to get to from the West entrance. You can't just backcountry camp anywhere in Joshua Tree, because you must first register at one of the backcountry boards. This trailhead has one of the approximately dozen backcountry boards in the park. Rules for backcountry camping in Joshua Tree:

• Register at a backcountry board and park your car in that parking lot
• Hike in at least 1 mile from any roads
• Set up camp at least 500 feet from any trails and water sources
• Not fires permitted

Pros:

• free
• guaranteed camping during busy weekends

Cons:

• No facilities along the trail (just the bathroom in the parking lot)