Where To Camp At Joshua Tree?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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  1. Hidden Valley Campground. Hidden Valley Campground | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. …
  2. White Tank Campground. …
  3. Belle Campground. …
  4. Jumbo Rocks Campground. …
  5. Ryan Campground. …
  6. Indian Cove Campground. …
  7. Cottonwood Campground. …
  8. Black Rock Campground.

How do you get a camping spot in Joshua Tree?

On your drive out,

call and ask if first-come, first-serve are full for the weekend

. I also recommend calling the reservation line for any last minute cancellations: Joshua Tree Campsite Reservation Line at (877)444-6777.

Can you sleep anywhere in Joshua Tree?

No, when visiting Joshua Tree, it's best that you do not plan on sleeping in your car.

Sleeping in your vehicle overnight within the National Park is not allowed

. If found, you could be subject to a citation, so it's best to avoid the situation altogether.

Do you need a reservation to camp at Joshua Tree?


No advance reservations are needed to enter Joshua Tree National Park

. Reservations are required for ranger-led tours of Keys Ranch. Reservations can be made on recreation.gov. Some campgrounds are first come, first served, whereas others require reservations during the peak season.

Is dispersed camping allowed in Joshua Tree?

Dispersed Camping


There are some camping options nearby the park on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

. These lands have their own rules and regulations for dispersed camping. There are no developed facilities in dispersed camping areas: no restrooms, no water, no trash collection.

Do you need a tent in Joshua Tree?

Reservations are required for all the campsites at Indian Cove during peak-season in Joshua Tree, and are always required for the 13 group sites. Outside of the peak season, individual campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The sites accommodate tents and RVs up to 35′

.

What's it like to camp at Joshua Tree?

The park's signature trees, giant boulders, and surrounding mountains create an almost surreal landscape that feels like another world. Camping here is nothing less than spectacular, with

scenic campgrounds spread around massive rock formations and sites just perfect for pitching a tent or setting up an RV

.

Can you camp in Joshua Tree in the summer?

During the summer months,

all campsites are first-come, first-served

. This isn't a problem because you'll have plenty of spots to choose from. It's important to note that the campgrounds listed below are typically closed after the first weekend of June through the end of September.

Can you stay overnight at Joshua Tree National Park?


Yes, you can enter Joshua Tree at night

. If you're visiting Joshua Tree National Park to feast on the stars, we have good news for you — the park gates are open 24/7, and anyone can drive in or out of the park regardless of where they're staying.

Can you sleep in your car when camping?


Sleeping in a car will keep you up off the ground and dry, if there's any rain

. It's also much more insulated than a typical tent. As long as you don't leave the lights on for too long without running the engine for some time, you've got a light source built-in.

Can you camp in Joshua Tree in December?

Plan to bring a high quality sleeping bag. December:

As winter begins creeping in, the Joshua Tree area sees average high temperatures of 60°F and lows of 40°F

(and keep in mind that many nights will dip below freezing).

How much does it cost to camp at Joshua Tree?

Fees for Campsites in Joshua Tree National Park

The campgrounds that allow online reservations, including Black Rock, Jumbo Rocks, Indian Cove, and Cottonwood, are

$20 per night

. The Sheep Pass campground features large group campsites for parties of 7 to 50 people. These sites cost $40-$50 per night.

What is the best time of year to go to Joshua Tree?

The best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park is

March to May and October to November

. Though the park is open year-round, temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average high of about 85 degrees.

Does it snow in Joshua Tree?


Snowfall is rare in Joshua Tree, but it does happen

. If you're lucky enough to visit during a snowstorm, enjoy the beautiful scenery!

Is alcohol allowed in Joshua Tree?

The use or possession of alcoholic beverages in government buildings has been amended to conform to the policy of the Secretary of the Interior which

prohibits the use or possession of alcoholic beverages unless by written exemption from the Secretary

.

Can I smoke in Joshua Tree?


Outdoor smoking, except as specifically exempted within an enclosed vehicle

. Fireworks, explosives, and any incendiary devices are always prohibited on public lands.

Can you see the Milky Way at Joshua Tree?


Yes! Joshua Tree is an amazing place to see the Milky Way

. It's easiest to see the Milky Way in Joshua Tree National Park in the summer.

Is Joshua Tree worth it in the summer?

Despite that,

summer can be a fun time to visit Joshua Tree if you're prepared with hot days and warm nights

. Stargazing during this time is especially glorious as the milky way is very easily visible on moonless nights roaring overhead.

Can you camp at Joshua Tree in June?


It's doable

. The average weather in June is 94. Just make sure you bring plenty of water and shade (tarps, canopies, etc.) The campgrounds are open in June, they're just first come first served.

Timothy Chehowski
Author
Timothy Chehowski
Timothy Chehowski is a travel writer and photographer with over 10 years of experience exploring the world. He has visited over 50 countries and has a passion for discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations and hidden gems. Juan's writing and photography have been featured in various travel publications.