Dispersed camping areas outside Joshua Tree National Park serve as popular alternatives when park campgrounds fill up. The desert landscape around Twentynine Palms sits at approximately 1,900 feet elevation and experiences extreme temperature fluctuations between day and night. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night while summer days routinely exceed 100°F, making seasonal timing crucial for comfortable camping experiences.
What to do
Stargazing at night: Ryan Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. "I recommend visiting during a new moon. The sunsets and night sky have to be some of the best in the world," notes Chance C. about Ryan Campground.
Morning hikes: Plan early departures during summer months to avoid dangerous heat. "The campground was amazing. It was very hot in July so I went into town during peak afternoon hours but the morning and evenings at Jumbo Rocks are amazing!" says Luc R. about Jumbo Rocks Campground.
Photography at sunrise: Arrive before dawn to capture the unique desert lighting. "I like this campground the best because the road is paved and that cuts down on the desert dust. Only drawback is there is no cell service at all at this campground. Its very picturesque against the unique Joshua Tree rocks," explains Susan N.
Climbing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer direct access to climbing routes. "I love this spot specifically because it is a great place to climb. It's conveniently located close to skull rock and discovery trail. Although my favorite part of this campground is how clearly you can see the stars," shares Andrea C.
What campers like
Natural windbreaks: The rock formations provide shelter from desert winds at certain dog-friendly campgrounds near Twentynine Palms. "This place was the perfect campground as far as I'm concerned. It wasn't busy at all when we were there in May. The sites are tucked into the rocks which block wind and kept us nice and warm at night," reports Heather L. about Indian Cove Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning hours bring opportunities to spot desert wildlife. "We did have a coyote visitor twice in the morning, so don't forget to keep your food/trash locked up from critters!" advises Sierra T. at Jumbo Rocks.
Distance between sites: BLM areas allow for significant space between camping units. "The campground is huge. If it were a full camp, it would be a lot less peaceful," notes Ryan W. about Black Rock Campground.
Cell service availability: Different campgrounds offer varying connectivity levels. "The indoor pool and hot tub at the resort provide relaxation for human guests after a day of exploring with their dogs. Pets must remain leashed throughout all camping areas to protect local wildlife and other campers," mentions a reviewer about Twentynine Palms Resort.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current rules before planning campfires. "We had a lovely campfire on night one. The second night was windier at about 15mph with gusts and we chose not to light one, but there wasn't a red flag warning or restriction," explains Ryan W.
Water planning: Most dispersed sites lack water sources completely. "Enjoyed staying at this campground. Each site is different, but the information on reservation site contains all details. Planning for water is needed, there is only a pit toilet," advises Robert about Jumbo Rocks.
Road conditions: Access to BLM lands can be challenging for low-clearance vehicles. "The road leading there was a little bit bumpy, however the ground of the BLM lands was pretty sturdy and compact. As stated there is nothing but land, however, that is the beauty of this place!" shares Martina D. about North Joshua Tree.
Weather preparedness: Extreme temperature fluctuations require planning. "We came into this camping trip expecting three things- 1. It was going to be hot, 2. The ground was going to be hard, and 3. It was going to be windy. All three of those things were mostly true," reports Jen G. about Indian Cove.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sheltered sites: Look for rock formations that block wind and provide shade. "The sites are tucked into the rocks which block wind and kept us nice and warm at night. Bats flew just overhead for a couple hours and I thought it was magical!" shares Heather L.
Explore early morning trails: Many pet-accommodating campgrounds near Twentynine Palms have family-friendly trails accessible before heat peaks. "Clean bathrooms when I visited. Enjoyed rock climbing and hiking in the area!" notes Brittany N.
Plan shade solutions: Bring pop-up shelters for midday protection. "Big oversized sites. Big oversized tables," mentions Ryan W. about the amenities at Black Rock Campground.
Reserve when possible: Secure spots at pet-friendly campgrounds that allow advance booking. "As one of the few reservable campgrounds in Joshua Tree, Indian Cove is a great option for camping. Unlike some of the more popular campgrounds in Joshua Tree it is located outside the main park so it's a bit of a drive to the main attractions," explains Andre V. about BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Carefully check length restrictions. "There are boulders along the road side that do not allow you to pull into the sites. This was not obvious from the pictures or descriptions," warns Mark D. about Jumbo Rocks.
Hookup availability: Most natural area campgrounds lack services. "Would be a 5 star if it had water, a dump station or electric," notes Gary H. about Indian Cove Campground.
Level parking areas: Scout for flat spots when setting up. "Amazing what a delightful place to stay! Very unique with stunning boulders through your the camp ground! Clean bathrooms too!! No showers or hook up if any kind! We have a 29ft trailer with truck got in and out ok much bigger you would have a problem many tight spaces," explains Diane M.
Dump station access: Plan for waste disposal needs. "Further up Sunfair is a family run campground, wonderful people, standard site pricing ($30 dry, $55 full hookup). Convenient to have nearby because they'll let you use the dump station for $20, fill your water for $5, and shower for $10," advises Michaela H. about Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground.
