Joshua Tree National Park Camping Guide

Joshua Tree Campgrounds: Complete Guide

Park Boulevard Area Campgrounds (Central Joshua Tree)

Entrance & Perimeter Campgrounds

Southern Joshua Tree Campground

Campground Comparison Table

Campground	Location & Sites	Cost & Reservations
Jumbo Rocks	Central park, along Park Blvd 124 sites amid huge boulders	$30/night Reservation required
Hidden Valley	Central park, west of Intersection Rock 44 sites among boulders	$25/night First-come, first-served
Ryan	Central park, near Keys View junction 31 sites, open desert setting	$30/night Reservation required
Belle	Central park (N. Pinto Basin Road) 18 sites, small primitive	$25/night First-come, first-served
White Tank	Central park (N. Pinto Basin Road) 15 sites among rock formations	$25/night First-come, first-served
Black Rock	NW corner (near Yucca Valley) 99 sites in Joshua tree forest	$35/night Reservation required
Indian Cove	North side (off Hwy 62) 101 sites among rock walls	$35/night Reservation required
Cottonwood	South end (near Cottonwood Oasis) 62 sites in open desert	$35/night Reservation required

Campground Amenities and Best Uses

Northern park campgrounds like Hidden Valley, Ryan, Belle, and White Tank provide a more primitive, rugged atmosphere with vault toilets and no running water, but they immerse you in the classic Joshua Tree landscape of jumbled boulders and abundant Joshua trees. These are ideal for tent campers, climbers, and photographers seeking iconic desert scenery who don't mind the lack of amenities.

The amenity-rich campgrounds - Black Rock, Cottonwood, and Indian Cove - offer water (except Indian Cove) and nicer facilities, making them better choices for families and RV campers or anyone who appreciates flush toilets. Black Rock's potable water and proximity to town make it ideal if you want convenience and good access to longer hiking trails. Cottonwood's amenities and lower elevation make it popular in cooler months and great for astronomy enthusiasts due to wide-open sky views.

For stargazing, Cottonwood usually wins for darkest skies thanks to its distance from city lights, though White Tank and Belle are close contenders. For sunrise and sunset views, Jumbo Rocks and Ryan offer broad vistas where the horizon lights up beautifully. If you're seeking campgrounds for bouldering and climbing right from your tent, Hidden Valley and Indian Cove are top picks - you can scramble on rocks at either location.

Photo by David C

Planning Your Joshua Tree Camping Trip

When to Visit

Season	Temperatures	Camping Conditions
Spring (March-May)	Day: 70-85°F Night: 45-60°F	Wildflowers bloom (esp. March/April) All campgrounds open High demand - reserve early
Summer (June-August)	Day: 95-105°F Night: 70-80°F	Extreme heat - low crowds Some loops may close Excellent stargazing conditions
Fall (September-November)	Day: 80-95°F (Sept) to 65-75°F (Nov) Night: 50-65°F cooling to 40°F	Gradually cooling temperatures Excellent weather Oct-Nov Clear skies, ideal for activities
Winter (December-February)	Day: 50-65°F Night: 30-40°F (can drop below 32°F)	Chilly nights, occasional frost Smaller crowds except holidays Great for daytime hiking

Spring (March-May) arguably offers the best camping weather in Joshua Tree. By March, desert wildflowers begin blooming after wet winters, and daytime highs are warm but not yet scorching. Nights remain comfortable though bring layers for breezy March evenings. This is peak season, so campgrounds are busiest from mid-February through April. Spring brings periodic windstorms, especially in April, so secure tents well.

Summer (June-August) is off-season due to extreme heat, with daytime temperatures routinely exceeding 100°F. However, if you can tolerate the heat or schedule adventures at sunrise and sunset, you'll have solitude in campgrounds. Expect many empty sites and uniquely serene atmosphere with spectacular warm nights perfect for stargazing. Plan afternoon siestas and bring extra water and shade.

Fall (September-November) becomes a second spring in Joshua Tree. After summer heat breaks, late September and October offer near-perfect weather with warm days in the 70s-80s°F and cooler nights. There's often increased visitation again by October, especially around Halloween and Veterans Day weekend. November brings crisp nights and fewer crowds aside from Thanksgiving.

Winter (December-February) offers tranquil camping with occasional frigid beauty. Daytimes are cool but often sunny (50s°F), great for strenuous hikes without overheating. Nights drop to freezing or below, requiring warm sleeping bags and proper gear. Campgrounds rarely fill except around Christmas to New Year's. Winter can bring rare light snow dustings on Joshua trees - a surreal sight that typically melts by afternoon.

Joshua Tree Reservation Systems Explained

Securing a campsite in Joshua Tree during peak times requires understanding the reservation system and planning ahead. Recreation.gov is the platform for all reservable campgrounds in the park. Reservations open on a rolling 6-month basis - for example, a March 15 arrival opens for booking on September 15. The window opens at 7:00 AM Pacific Time, and popular dates often get booked within minutes.

For the best chance at securing a spot, mark your calendar for the exact date 6 months out when your desired dates become available. Set an alarm a few minutes before 7:00 AM PT to log on. Have flexible dates and different campgrounds in mind as backup options. Create your Recreation.gov account in advance and save payment information.

Hidden Valley, White Tank, and Belle are first-come, first-served. To get a spot, plan to arrive in the morning on less busy days. On busy weekends, arriving Thursday or very early Friday gives you the best shot. If you find an open site, you must physically occupy it and pay at the nearest entrance station within an hour.

If you missed out on reservations, don't panic. Check Recreation.gov frequently as your trip approaches - cancellations do appear, often a few days before. Additionally, consider camping outside the park on BLM land as backup and then drive into the park early to snag a first-come site if possible.

Campground Costs and Budgeting

Campground Type	Nightly Cost	Key Features
Primitive Campgrounds	$25 per night	Hidden Valley, Belle, White Tank No water, vault toilets, first-come
Standard Campgrounds	$30-$35 per night	Ryan, Jumbo Rocks ($30) Black Rock, Indian Cove, Cottonwood ($35)
Group Campgrounds	$40-$50 per night	Indian Cove, Cottonwood, Sheep Pass Large sites for 10-50 people

Additional Fees and Budget Tips

Park Entrance Fees - Park entrance fees are $30 per vehicle (valid 7 days) or $55 for an annual Joshua Tree-specific pass. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers all national parks if visiting multiple parks.

Getting Firewood - There is no firewood for sale inside the park. Plan to buy wood in local towns (Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, or Twentynine Palms) before entering. A bundle runs $7-10. If you need to refill water jugs, you can do so for free at visitor centers or at spigots in Black Rock and Cottonwood campgrounds.

What about Showers? Joshua Tree's campgrounds do not have showers. Nearby options include pay showers at some outfitters in Joshua Tree town or private campgrounds in the area for a fee (around $5). Many campers bring solar showers or use biodegradable wipes for cleaning.

Availability Periods - Visit in shoulder seasons (late fall or early spring) for slightly easier availability and potentially lower travel costs. Weekdays offer better chances at sites and less crowded experiences. Extending trips to include weekdays can both increase site availability and provide quieter camping.

Essential Gear for Joshua Tree Camping

Camping in Joshua Tree's high desert requires preparation for extreme conditions: hot sun, cool nights, and rugged terrain.

Four-season or sturdy tents handle high winds that kick up unexpectedly, especially in spring. Strong poles and full-coverage rainfly for wind and dust protection are important. Stake securely with extra-long stakes for sandy soil.

Sleeping bags rated around 20°F handle temperature swings from balmy to freezing nights. Bring extra fleece blankets for layering on colder winter nights. In summer, light sheets might suffice early in the night, but keep warmer layers handy for pre-dawn chill.

Sleeping pads or cots help with the hard, gravelly ground. Insulated pads keep you comfortable and protect from cold ground in winter. If using air mattresses, be mindful that cacti spines can puncture inflatables.

Broad-brim hats and sunglasses are essential - the desert sun is intense with minimal shade in most campgrounds. High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm need frequent reapplication. Long-sleeve, lightweight shirts and long pants protect from sunburn and scratchy plants.

Water containers are absolutely critical - bring more water storage than you think you need! Consider large 5-7 gallon water jugs for camp plus refillable bottles for hikes. You can refill at visitor centers, but having big jugs at your site means fewer trips.

High-quality coolers keep food fresh longer in desert heat. Block ice lasts longer than cubes. Keep coolers in shade and cover with blankets for extra insulation during the day.

Camp stoves provide reliable cooking when campfires aren't allowed due to wind or fire bans. Propane or backpacking stoves work well. Bring ample fuel - you'll use more making coffee in chilly mornings or heating water.

Sturdy plastic storage bins help with critter-proofing food. While Joshua Tree doesn't have bears, squirrels, mice, and ravens are crafty. Lock all food and scented items in vehicles when not in use.

Headlamps and flashlights are essential - nights are very dark. Good headlamps let you navigate safely after dark. A small UV flashlight can be fun for spotting scorpions at night (they fluoresce under UV light).

Photo by Tara S

Wildlife Safety and Park Regulations

Following Joshua Tree National Park wildlife safety rules and regulations will keep your park stay enjoyable and safe.

Joshua Tree may not have bears, but the desert has its own wildlife and rules that campers need to respect. Several creatures make their home in campgrounds, including rattlesnakes that are active in warmer months. They usually avoid people, but always watch where you step or reach, especially around rocks or shrubs. If you encounter a snake, give it distance and time to move away.

Scorpions and spiders roam at night. Shake out boots and sleeping bags before use, and use lights when walking after dark. Never place hands where you can't see, like under rocks or in crevices. Bees can be attracted to water - occasional swarms have been known in the region. If you see bee activity around water sources, give them space.

Do not feed wildlife. Ground squirrels, coyotes, and ravens may seem bold, but human food harms them and creates pest behavior. Secure all food and trash in containers or locked vehicles. Ravens are notorious for opening coolers or zippers. Pack food away at night to prevent visits from mice, kangaroo rats, and occasional raccoons.

Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings provided at campsites. Do not build new rings or set fires on open ground. The park periodically issues fire bans when wildfire danger is high, prohibiting wood and charcoal fires. Always check current fire conditions before your trip. Never leave campfires unattended and fully extinguish with water before leaving or sleeping.

The desert is extremely delicate. Stick to established paths or bare rock when walking to avoid crushing living soil crust that takes decades to recover. Pack out all trash, even tiny bits like wrappers or bottle caps. Don't pour food scraps or greasy water on ground - strain and pack out to avoid attracting animals.

Key regulations include quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM in all campgrounds, maximum 6 people and 2 vehicles per standard site, and pets allowed in campgrounds on leash but not on trails. Attaching anything to Joshua trees is prohibited - use rocks or free-standing equipment instead. Drones are not allowed anywhere in the park.

Photo by Chance C

Beyond the Campground: Activities and Exploration

Day Trips from Joshua Tree Campgrounds

From central campgrounds like Jumbo Rocks or Hidden Valley, Keys View offers a 20-minute drive to a lookout at 5,185 feet with sweeping views of the Coachella Valley. On clear days you can spot the Salton Sea and even Mexico. Sunrise or sunset at Keys View is spectacular. The Cholla Cactus Garden on Pinto Basin Road features a boardwalk loop through dense cholla cacti that glow in low sun.

Hidden Valley and Barker Dam provide signature short hikes from Hidden Valley Campground. The Hidden Valley Nature Trail is a 1-mile loop through a rock-enclosed valley once rumored to have been used by cattle rustlers. Barker Dam (1.1-mile loop) leads to a historic water reservoir with chances to see waterfowl or bighorn sheep if water is present.

Skull Rock and Jumbo Rocks area offers giant granite formations right by the road. Park at Skull Rock pullout and spend time scrambling among monzogranite boulders the size of buildings. Informal paths weave among the rocks like a natural playground for all ages.

For a change of pace outside the park, Pioneertown (30-40 minutes from Black Rock) is an Old West movie set town from the 1940s with shops and the famous Pappy & Harriet's Saloon for food or live music. Twentynine Palms serves as the northern gateway city with supply stores and the Oasis of Mara behind the visitor center - a short paved loop under palm trees with historical exhibits.

Top Hiking Trails Near Campgrounds

Trail Name	Distance & Difficulty	Key Features
Ryan Mountain Trail	3 miles RT, Strenuous	Summit at 5,461 ft with 360° views 1,000 ft elevation gain from Ryan area
Hidden Valley Loop	1 mile loop, Easy	Iconic walk through rock-enclosed valley Educational signs on plants & history
Barker Dam Trail	1.1 mile loop, Easy	Historic dam and reservoir Petroglyphs on side trail
Lost Palms Oasis	7.2 miles RT, Moderate	Fan palm oasis in southern park Undulating desert trail with big payoff
49 Palms Oasis	3 miles RT, Moderate	Secluded palm oasis on north side Some steep sections, beautiful in morning
Arch Rock Trail	1.3 miles RT, Easy	Natural rock arch formation Starts from White Tank Campground

Ryan Mountain Trail offers the best panoramic views if you do one challenging hike. Starting near Ryan Campground, it's a steady climb with stone steps to one of the park's highest peaks. Best tackled in cool morning with no shade, so bring water and wear a hat. The effort rewards you with sweeping vistas of jumbled topography and distant mountain ranges.

Hidden Valley and Barker Dam loops are perfect for families as introduction to the park's landscape. Hidden Valley's flat trail lets kids climb smaller rocks along the route. Barker Dam features Old West history and petroglyphs on a spur trail. Both trails are near each other so you can do both in one outing.

Lost Palms Oasis in the southern park offers a longer hike for those camping at Cottonwood or wanting more adventure. The trail involves some canyon navigation to reach the palm grove. It's less trafficked than northern trails and shows Joshua Tree's diverse character. Standing among towering fan palms in the desert is surreal.

49 Palms Oasis, accessed outside the North Entrance, climbs over a ridge into a rocky canyon where lush palms thrive. No shade until you reach the oasis, so carry plenty of water. Great to combine with town supply trips. Desert bighorn sheep frequent this area, especially mornings and late afternoons.

Water Activities in Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree is a dry park - you won't find natural bodies of water suitable for swimming, boating, or fishing. Any standing water like at Barker Dam or oases is crucial for wildlife, and swimming is not allowed in small pools or cattle tanks. These precious water sources should be respected: enjoy from shorelines but do not bathe, wade, or let pets enter them.

If camping in hot season and needing to beat heat, some campers bring small kiddie pools or basins to fill with hauled water for foot soaking at campsites. Just dispose of water on dirt away from plants when done and never leave containers unattended.

For actual swimming, the city of Twentynine Palms has a public pool at Luckie Park (open summer months). For day trips, Big Bear Lake about 1.5 hours west offers alpine lake recreation, or the Salton Sea to the south provides unique (though very saline) lake sightseeing and birdwatching.

The main water-related activity in Joshua Tree is drinking water - lots of it. The dry air wicks moisture away and you often don't realize you're losing water. Set up hydration stations at campsites and make drinking water frequently a habit. Use water conservatively at campgrounds with spigots, as they rely on limited groundwater.

The Dyrt Community Insights

Park rangers consistently advise arriving early for first-come sites, recommending Thursday or early morning Friday arrivals. "Our first-come campgrounds are full nearly every weekend October through May," notes one ranger. They emphasize hydration and sun protection as the most common visitor issues, recommending drinking water every time you think of it and reapplying sunscreen every two hours.

Camp hosts mention that sound travels far at night in the desert quiet. They recommend treating the desert like a library after dark with whispers and low voices to help everyone enjoy the peace. For stargazing, local astronomers suggest walking 100 yards from campground lights when possible, as even small lanterns can affect night vision.

Multiple rangers emphasize that cell coverage is unreliable, especially in central and southern park areas. Download maps and information beforehand since you might get signal near entrances or high points but not in camp. Embrace the digital detox opportunity.

Category	Top Pick & Rating	Key Highlights
Highest-Rated Campground	Ryan Campground 4.5/5 stars	Quieter atmosphere, well-spaced sites Central location, sunrise views
Best for Stargazing	Cottonwood Campground 4.2/5 stars	Minimal light pollution, wide-open sky Often less crowded, incredible Milky Way
Best for Rock Climbers	Hidden Valley Campground 4.2/5 stars	Climbers' mecca, walk to routes Social campfire atmosphere

The Dyrt users frequently praise Jumbo Rocks for its scenery, with one review titled "Camping in a Dr. Seuss Wonderland" capturing the feeling of the boulder landscape. Others mention waking early to catch first light on rocks being absolutely worth it.

For solitude seekers, users recommend mid-week stays at Belle or White Tank: "We had Belle Campground nearly to ourselves on a Tuesday night - just us and coyotes yipping in the distance. Magical!" Climbers consistently call Hidden Valley the "best climber hangout in the Southwest," noting the bulletin board where folks connect for climbing partners.

Community members share wildlife encounters like friendly ground squirrels at camp (keep chips sealed!) and lucky sightings of desert tortoises wandering near sites in spring. Several reviewers recommend local eats in town after days of camp meals, mentioning places like Crossroads Cafe and Joshua Tree Coffee Company for caffeine fixes before early hikes.

Photo by Darrin L

Responsible Camping Practices

Camping in Joshua Tree's fragile desert environment requires careful practices to protect resources for future visitors. Store all food, trash, and scented items in vehicles or hard containers when not in use to prevent ravens, mice, and other critters from getting into trouble. Never feed wildlife - not even cute ground squirrels - as human food harms them and creates aggressive behavior.

Give wildlife space when encountered. If you see jackrabbits, coyotes, or snakes near camp, observe quietly and do not approach. Maintain at least 25 yards distance from larger animals. Keep pets leashed and never allow them to chase or harass wildlife.

Pack out everything you bring in, including micro-trash like bottle caps and food scraps. There are no trash cans at some campgrounds, so plan for garbage removal. Use dumpsters at entrances when available, not fire pits or bushes for trash disposal.

Camp only in established sites to avoid trampling vegetation and creating new impact areas. The desert crust and plants are extremely fragile and take decades to recover from damage. Stick to established paths or bare rock when walking around campsites.

Take only pictures and leave natural objects where you find them. Joshua Tree's rocks and artifacts should stay as you found them. It's illegal to collect rocks, artifacts, or plants from the park. Even flowers should remain to seed future generations of blooms.

Never scratch, carve, or paint on rocks or infrastructure. If you see graffiti, report it to rangers. Sadly, there's been an uptick in rock graffiti that can last decades.

Use water sparingly even if you brought plenty, as water is life in the desert. Don't let taps run at spigots unnecessarily. For dishwashing, use small basins and scatter strained gray water at least 200 feet from camps or water sources to avoid attracting wildlife.

Obey all fire restrictions, which vary seasonally. If signs say "No fires," it means no wood or charcoal fires (propane stoves remain okay). Keep fires small and never leave them unattended. Extinguish thoroughly with water, stirring ashes until cold to the touch. Don't burn trash in campfires - it rarely burns completely and scraps attract animals.

Keep noise levels down to preserve the natural soundscape. Use headphones for music at night and consider using red headlamps to preserve others' night vision for stargazing. Drive slowly in campgrounds (often 10 mph limit) to keep dust down and ensure safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need reservations to camp in Joshua Tree? It depends on the campground and timing. From fall through spring, five campgrounds require reservations (Black Rock, Indian Cove, Jumbo Rocks, Ryan, and Cottonwood) available up to 6 months in advance on Recreation.gov. Three campgrounds (Hidden Valley, Belle, and White Tank) are first-come, first-served only. During summer off-peak season, reservable campgrounds often have availability, but booking is still recommended for weekends.

When is the best time to camp at Joshua Tree? Spring (March-April) and late fall (October) offer ideal weather - warm days in the 70s-80s°F and cool nights. Spring has wildflower blooms if conditions permit. Fall offers clear skies and fewer crowds after summer heat breaks. Winter is great if you don't mind cold nights; days are crisp and perfect for hiking. Summer is least popular due to extreme heat but offers solitude and spectacular night skies.

How cold does it get at night in Joshua Tree? Night temperatures vary by season and elevation. In mid-winter, nights can drop into the 20s°F at higher campgrounds like Hidden Valley or Ryan. In spring or fall, expect 40s°F typically. Summer nights remain warm, often in the 70s°F. Most times you won't need a heater with proper sleeping gear, but if you bring a propane heater for winter, never use it inside closed tents or RVs without ventilation.

Are there showers at Joshua Tree campgrounds? No showers exist within park campgrounds. Nearby towns have limited options: some outfitters in Joshua Tree town offer pay-per-use outdoor showers for a few dollars, or private RV parks may offer shower access for fees. Many campers bring solar showers or use biodegradable wipes for cleaning. The dry air means you won't feel as sweaty as in humid climates.

Can I bring an RV and are there hookups? RVs and trailers are welcome with size limitations. There are no hookups (electricity, water, or sewer) at any Joshua Tree campground - all camping is dry camping. Black Rock and Cottonwood have dump stations and water fill. Size limits vary: Black Rock and Cottonwood accommodate rigs up to about 35 feet. Many other campgrounds max out around 20-25 feet including tow vehicles due to tight maneuvering amid rocks.

What wildlife might I see in Joshua Tree campgrounds? Common campground visitors include antelope ground squirrels during day and kangaroo rats at night. Jackrabbits and cottontails appear near dawn or dusk. You'll hear coyotes howling at night though they usually avoid people. In warmer months, rattlesnakes and gopher snakes occasionally pass through. Scorpions, spiders, and desert tarantulas come out at night. Rarely, desert tortoises wander through campgrounds near Cottonwood or Indian Cove. Bird life includes great horned owls at night and Gambel's quail in mornings.

Can I do dispersed camping inside Joshua Tree park? Dispersed backcountry camping is allowed only if you hike at least one mile from roads and register at backcountry boards. You cannot drive off-road and car camp anywhere inside park boundaries. However, just outside the park, BLM public lands offer dispersed car camping that's free. Popular spots include BLM areas north of Highway 62 near Joshua Tree town and areas south of Cottonwood. These have no facilities - bring everything, pack out everything.

Planning Resources

Essential Joshua Tree Links

• The Dyrt's Joshua Tree National Park Campground Finder - Reviews, amenities, helpful insights, and availability for campgrounds in and around Joshua Tree
• Joshua Tree National Park Official Website - Current conditions, alerts, and regulations
• Recreation.gov Joshua Tree Campgrounds - Booking platform for reservable campgrounds
• Joshua Tree Road and Weather Conditions - Current updates on road status and weather
• California Road Conditions - Highway information and travel conditions

Reservation Timeline

Time Period	Reservation Task	Platform/Details
6 Months Before Trip	Book reservable campgrounds	Recreation.gov (opens 7:00 AM PT) Set calendar reminder for exact date
3-4 Months Before	Research alternatives and gear needs	BLM camping areas Gear rental if flying in
1 Month Before	Check reservations and gather supplies	Recreation.gov account review Start watching weather trends
1 Week Before	Final preparations and condition checks	Buy groceries, firewood near park Check fire restrictions and alerts
Day Before Departure	Pack and download offline resources	Fill water jugs Download maps and entertainment
Day of Arrival	Early arrival for best experience	Arrive at campground by noon if possible For first-come sites, arrive morning

Joshua Tree Camping Checklist

Reservations and Permits:

• Campground reservation confirmation (printed and digital)
• Park entrance pass or America the Beautiful Pass
• Photo ID matching reservation
• Backcountry permit (if planning hike-in camping)

Camping Gear:

• Tent with rainfly and extra stakes
• Sleeping bags rated for temperature extremes
• Insulated sleeping pads
• Extra blankets for cold nights
• Headlamps and flashlights with spare batteries
• Camp chairs and lantern

Kitchen Supplies:

• Camp stove and ample fuel
• Lighter/matches in waterproof container
• Cooler with block ice
• Water containers (5-7 gallon jugs plus bottles)
• Cooking utensils and dishwashing supplies
• Trash bags for pack-out
• Bear-resistant containers for food storage

Clothing:

• Layering system for temperature swings
• Sun protection (hat, long sleeves, sunglasses)
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Camp sandals or shoes
• Warm jacket and gloves for cold nights
• Rain gear for occasional storms

Desert-Specific Items:

• High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent
• First aid kit with tweezers (for cactus spines)
• UV flashlight for scorpion spotting (optional but fun)
• Shade tarp or canopy for hot weather
• Extra water beyond what you think you need

Tools and Safety:

• Multi-tool or knife
• Duct tape for repairs
• Bungee cords and rope
• Small shovel for fire management
• Whistle for emergencies
• Portable phone charger

Navigation and Entertainment:

• Printed maps and offline GPS downloads
• Binoculars for wildlife and stargazing
• Star chart or astronomy app
• Camera with extra batteries
• Books or cards for quiet evenings
• Musical instruments (acoustic guitar, etc.)

By planning carefully, respecting the fragile desert environment, and preparing for extreme conditions, your Joshua Tree camping experience will create lasting memories. Whether you're scrambling up boulder formations at Hidden Valley, watching sunrise paint the rocks golden at Jumbo Rocks, or lying under the brilliant Milky Way at Cottonwood, camping in Joshua Tree connects you directly to one of America's most unique desert landscapes.