This was my first time to Joshua Tree for camping and it was a special trip for me so aside from the weather and other hiccups on this trip - it's getting 5 stars because this was the trip that my boyfriend of 11 years proposed while we were camping.

Now that we're past the mushy stuff --

The campground came as a suggestion from a friend of mine who knew we were not looking for somewhere to rock climb (I know that is a big hobby out in Joshua Tree). Right off of the campground is a cute little 0.3 mile hike called Arch Rock, but just down the road are more dramatic and longer hikes. We chose Ryan Mountain which is 2.7 miles up and down and mildly exhausting depending on how often you hike I imagine. I ride bikes more than I hike mountains so my level of energy is quite low for hikes but once at the top had incredible views! Totally recommend it - just remember to take a ton of water if you're going in the summer time. It can get HOT. Luckily we went just after Thanksgiving so it was still rather nice weather during the day.

The rock formations within White Tank were incredible! Huge huge boulders and tons to explore. There's a ravine that was dry - no idea if this gets water in it but there was no water and we were able to wander down it for miles! Very picturesque for those who like those nature selfies.

The camp spaces are awesome and some are tucked further back where you would have to hike your stuff in just a bit, but then you get more privacy. I didn't get one of those spaces but we saw them as we were wandering around. When we showed up it was during probably 40 mile per hour winds and setting up our tent and cooking with my boyfriend who had a broken hand in a cast…well…those things were not fun but we hunkered down and by morning the wind had died down and we were able to enjoy the rest of our adventure.

I am looking forward to going back when the natural elements and broken bones (or lack thereof) are more in our favor.