Best Dispersed Camping near Joshua Tree National Park
Dispersed camping around Joshua Tree National Park gives you a chance to sleep under the stars without the crowds of developed campgrounds. The park has a number of primitive sites where you won't find any facilities - just you and the desert. Since there's no water, toilets, or trash service, you need to bring everything in and take everything out. Your campsite must be at least 200 feet from any road or water source, following public land rules. The maximum stay is 14 days to help protect the fragile desert ecosystem. Some of the better spots require driving on rough dirt roads, so a vehicle with good clearance helps, especially after rain. Fire bans are common in this dry area, so always check current restrictions before planning to have a campfire. The nearest supplies are in Twentynine Palms or Yucca Valley, both about 30-45 minutes from most dispersed sites. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing. The reward for going primitive is incredible night skies - the Milky Way is clearly visible on moonless nights. Wildlife like coyotes and jackrabbits are common visitors, so store food properly. Most cell service disappears once you're a few miles from the main roads, so download maps before heading out. The BLM land west and south of the park offers additional dispersed options if the park areas are full.