20 Best Things to do in Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree is one of the best destinations in Southern California, and it’s hard not to see why. While it looks dull from the outside, do not underestimate the power of this 800,000-acre park. 

Local and international tourists frequent this place for its magical views and the vast array of activities that you can do in it. The best activities to do in Joshua Tree National Park include rock climbing, camping out under the stars, taking an off-road tour, taking photos of the breathtaking scenery on hiking trails, and just taking in the peace of the desert.

The vast majority of the Joshua Tree National Park is inaccessible by road. Park Boulevard and Pinto Basin Road link I-10 and Cottonwood Visitor Center in the south, with the park’s west end and Joshua Tree, respectively. Park Boulevard and Pinto Basin Road link the park’s ends.

Are you itching to know more about what to do at Joshua Tree? Stay with us, and let up help you craft the perfect itinerary! In this guide, we will virtually tour you and show you the best things to do in the town of Joshua Tree and Joshua Tree National Park.

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Best & Fun Things to do in Joshua Tree

Here are some of our favorite things to do in and near Joshua Tree National Park!

1. Bask in the Beauty of Wildflower Blooms at the Joshua Tree National Park

Address: Joshua Tree National Park, Southern California, United States

Let’s start this list with one of the most beautiful sights at the Joshua Tree National Park. First on the list of Joshua Tree things to do is wildflower viewing among the most well-loved things to do during springtime. 

If you’re planning on spending your spring season, here’s a tip on what you can expect. You will see wildflowers starting to bloom at Pinto Basin and along the south boundary of Joshua Tree National Park as early as February. This will last until March and April.

However, every year, the amount and timings of spring wildflower blooming in Joshua Tree change. 

Spring blossoming is affected by fall and winter moisture, as well as temperatures in the spring. Besides this, plants also need temps to warm up a little before flower stalks form. The ground may be covered with green-leaved rosettes in January, but the flower stalks will not appear until the weather warms up.

Wildflower viewing is included in Joshua Tree’s points of interest, couples, or anyone who loves flowers and nature. You can take photos, pick a couple of flowers, and stroll with your loved ones for free. 

2. Warm-Up at the Hidden Valley Nature Trail

Address: 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

One of the most known tourist attractions and things to do in Joshua Tree is rock-hopping, and the Hidden Valley Nature Trail is a great place to do it. This one-mile circle is bordered by rocks and wildflowers in springtime, making it one of the park’s more bearable hikes. Thus, this is one of the most popular hiking trails in Joshua Tree National Park. 

Think of it as a warm-up for more serious and adrenaline-inducing hikes! A short trek or a leisurely stroll amid the trees and granite formations are ideal activities here. There aren’t many Joshua trees in this area, but the Great Burrito, a famous rock climbing spot in the park, can be found on this path.

If you’re a beginner at rock climbing or hiking, the Hidden Valley Nature Trail is a great site for you. Here, you can meet other tourists and hikers who you can connect with while finishing the trail. After all, one of the greatest things about traveling is meeting other people!

Families with kids can go hiking at the Hidden Valley Nature Trail as well. Because this is an easy trail, children won’t have a difficult time doing such an activity. Get ready to sweat it out, see majestic views, and enjoy a hike at the Hidden Valley Nature Trail within the national park.

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3. Spend a Night Under the Night’s Sky at the Hidden Valley Campground

Address: 74485 National Park Dr., Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

Are you looking for the best campground at the Joshua Tree National Park? Then, the Hidden Valley Campground is what you’re looking for. But before you add this to your itinerary, know that it will be challenging to even enter it!

Camping in Joshua Tree is one of the main reasons why tourists keep on coming back.

The 44 campsites provided are all stunning, surrounded by enormous rock formations and populated with thick Joshua trees. Generators aren’t permitted, so it’s peaceful. As the closest campsite to the park’s West Entrance Station on the Joshua Tree’s western edge, the Hidden Valley Campground is one of the most visually appealing spots.

Keep in mind that the Hidden Valley Campground allows both RVs and tents. Additionally, the area is near the best climbing locations at the park. It’s no wonder why people from all around the world adore the Hidden Valley Campground.

4. Take a Scenic Walk Around the Cholla Cactus Garden

Address: Pinto Basin Rd, Twentynine Palms, CA, United States

Are you thinking about what to do and where to go in Joshua Tree National Park?

Despite the fact that Joshua Trees are the most well-known feature of the national park, cholla cacti may also be found here. Teddybear-sized cholla cactus may be seen in abundance at the Cholla Cactus Garden. More than a thousand closely packed chollas line the desert floor at the Cholla Cactus Garden, making it one of the park’s most incredible sights for nature enthusiasts. 

These chollas, which are common in the desert, stand out as the sole cacti in this desert garden. To add to its collective beauty, creosote bushes and wildflowers provide a burst of color to the desert in the spring.

This lovely location may be explored on foot by following a flat, simple path. Because it’s such a short path, families with children can enjoy strolling through the Cholla Cactus Garden.

To get to the Cholla Cactus Garden, go past the campsites at Belle and White Tank on the road that leads to Cottonwood Spring.

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5. Visit the Majestic Arch Rock Tail

Address: Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, United States

At the Joshua Tree National Park, Arch Rock Trail is one of the park’s most popular destinations and is also Jumbo Rocks’ top attraction. This 30-foot-wide natural formation is formed like a gigantic arch.

Hikers who take on the Arch Rock Trail won’t have to put in a lot of effort to enjoy beautiful views! It’s a short and straightforward hike to the arch. In fact, you will reach the arch around the midway point of the walk. More importantly, the Arch Rock Trail takes you past so many other magical structures along the way.

The path is one of the most well-known routes for hiking in the park due to its lack of difficulty. And the fact that it gains less than 100 feet in elevation from beginning to end is a huge plus. If you’re not a fan of walking long distances or sweating away, a trail through the Arch Rock will surely interest you.

Besides sightseeing, you will definitely love to take photos of this iconic rock! The Arch Rock is large enough to take your entire family under it, so don’t be hesitant to take your children with you on this trail. As we mentioned, this is a relatively non-sweat trail, so kids can surely enjoy the short hike to the main destination.

6. Be Awestruck by the Rock Formations at the Skull Rock Trail

Address: Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, United States

This 1.7-mile hiking trail is one of the crowd favorites in all of Jumbo Rock. The Skull Rock Trail is straight out of a comic book as you can clearly see the resemblance of the giant rock formation to a skull. 

The Skull Rock formation is a popular attraction among local and international tourists, which you see by the way it’s always crowded. It makes the perfect background for individual or group photos with your family and loved ones. 

But there is more to see in this trail than the Skull Rock. This hiking trail is a fantastic roadside stop equipped with sloping rock heaps that are perfect for trekking or light climbing. It’s not uncommon to see other tourists wandering about this area and looking for high vantage points to take their photos. 

There are a few Joshua trees scattered around the trail of Skull Rock. Other than that, this route is full of big rocks and unique formations. 

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7. Watch the Sunset at the Keys View

Address: 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

The trip to Keys View, a 5,000-foot vantage point with expansive vistas of the Coachella Valley, is well worth the effort. Keys View in Coachella Valley is especially loved by sunset watchers and enthusiasts. From here, you can see the horizon become a vibrant shade of red, yellow, and orange as the sun sets.

In the distance, you can see the San Andreas fault, Palm Springs, and the Salton Sea from Keys View. On a clear day, you can see Mexico. If the weather is clear, you will get a view of a breathtaking panorama of desert landscapes. If you want, this is an excellent opportunity to familiarize yourself with the topography of the area.

As you ascend, you’ll notice a significant drop in temperature and a dramatic shift in the terrain. Thus, we highly recommend that you pack up some warm clothes to wear when you get to the top. Wear proper footwear as well to avoid meeting accidents at Keys View.

8. Tread Along the Historic Path of the Barker Dam Nature Trail

Address: Barker Dam Trailhead, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

Are you not a fan of long, tiring trails? The 1.3-mile-long Barker Dam Nature Trail is an excellent option for anyone seeking a quick hike in the woods. 

The Barker Dam Nature Trail is more than just a pathway filled with rocks. As you make your way down the route, you’ll discover a dam built in the 18th century and even rock formations that we can trace back from early civilizations.

If you’re bringing kids on your trip, worry not. Joshua Tree’s Barker Dam Trail is kid-friendly as the path is mostly level. Along the walk, you’ll see signs with facts about the area’s plants, Joshua trees, and animals. At twilight, desert tortoises, jackrabbits, and other species emerge from their burrows, so keep your eyes out for additional wildlife observations.

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9. Watch Birds in the Cottonwood Spring Oasis 

Address: Lost Palms Oasis Trail, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, United States

If you wish to visit one of the most magical spots in the Joshua Tree National Park, step foot on the Cottonwood Spring Oasis. As its name suggests, the Cottonwood Spring Oasis is a sanctuary in the desert since it offers a constant source of water. Although it changes, the flow rate is currently about 500 gallons per day.

The Cottonwood Spring Oasis has a rich history behind it. An earthquake triggered the formation of the spring many years ago. Ever since then, the Cahuilla Indians, as well as indigenous miners, prospectors, and others in the area, have been using the oasis. To this day, you may still see old gold processing machinery and concrete ruins around this area.

To add, Cottonwood Spring Oasis is a haven for birdwatchers. Birds and other creatures flock to the region because of the abundance of water, trees, and shade. Gambel’s Quail, bushtits,  hummingbirds, and the titmouse with the pointed cap should all be on your list to see.

This is the perfect place to take photos of nature, birds, trees, and people. At night, the Cottonwood Spring Oasis shines through the abundance of stars in the night sky. If this oasis is good enough for you, wait until you find out about the Cottonwood Campground.

10. Take an easy-going hike on the Ryan Mountain Trail

Address: Joshua Tree National Park, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

Ryan Mountain, located in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, offers a straightforward out-and-back climb to the mountain’s circular top. Stone stairs line a dirt path that ascends 1,050 feet in a 3-mile round-trip trek.

The 5,457-foot summit is crowned by a sun-exposed trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding jumbled rock formations and Joshua tree woods. The finest site to gain a birds-eye perspective of the park’s heart is at the peak of Ryan Mountain.

Joshua Tree’s Ryan Mountain Trail is one of the park’s most popular trails. This second-highest peak in Joshua Tree can be reached in a short, steady ascent. There’s no need to worry about making the trek up Ryan Mountain with your kids; they’ll have a great time nevertheless.

The track has been well-used and is easy to follow, but it is still somewhat rough in places. In spite of the uneven terrain and pebbles that are scattered about, take a moment to take in the scenery around you. In a flash, the Wonderland of Rocks spreads out before your eyes. This route has a significant amount of ascent, so it’s important to keep your eyes on the view rather than your achy legs as you make your way higher.

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11. Explore Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail

Address: Joshua Tree National Park, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

The Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail is not a trail that you would want to miss if you’re visiting Joshua Tree. Visiting this beautiful oasis in the middle of the desert does not disappoint! 

If you’re on a tight budget but still want to experience a sanctuary, Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail is your best bet. This pathway is just outside the premises of the Joshua Tree National Park, so you can hike there for free! This trail isn’t exactly for the weak, as it is a three-mile hike with some remarkably challenging spots.

But don’t worry! The hardship will all be paid off when you get a sight of the refreshing panoramic views of the valley with Joshua trees and unique rock formations. You will see towering, bushy palm trees as you approach the oasis, which appears a bit out of place but majestic nonetheless. 

Get your blood running and your heart jumping in excitement while trailing the Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail. Don’t forget to bring a camera with you because you don’t want to forget the view that will amaze you.

12. Unleash the Cowboy in You at the Knob Hill Ranch

Address: 57840 Cortez Dr, Yucca Valley, CA 92284, United States

Get your cowboy hats and boots ready when you visit the Knob Hill Ranch, located just on the left side of the Joshua Tree National Park. This thousand-square-mile ranch offers more than just a horseback riding experience. Here, you and your family can enjoy a ranch vacation, trail rides, and a guest house rental.

The spacious guest house features breathtaking vistas of both the desert and the surrounding mountains. It also comes furnished with furniture and tools that visitors may need to have a comfortable stay. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to ride horses around the Mojave desert while staying at Knob Hill Ranch. 

Luckily, this horseback riding ranch is not just for the ones who know how to ride horses! Even if you’ve never been on horseback before, you may participate in the ranch’s guided excursions, which are available to all visitors.

Knob Hill Ranch provides visitors with the chance to take riding lessons as well as urges them to warm up on their horses in the corral before heading out on the trails. As soon as you feel confident enough, you may ride towards Joshua Tree and take in the scenery of the desert and the mountains!

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13. Book a Day Trip at the Lost Horse Mine Trail

Address: Joshua Tree National Park, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

Joshua Tree National Park’s Lost Horse Mine is one of the park’s best-preserved gold mines. Either the entire 6.7-mile loop or a 4-mile out-and-back trip will get you to the mine. It’s a great way to see Pleasant Valley from the top of Lost Horse Mountain. To get to the mine, the out-and-back route follows an easy path and allows direct access.

If you’re searching for a modest hike, consider going to Lost Horse. Keys View Road serves as the trail’s primary access point. Four-mile round trip, the route is built along the Ryans’ ore-and-supply hauling road.

Located in the center of Joshua Tree National Park, this fantastic day trip weaves through desert washes, groves of beautiful Joshua trees, and historical monuments. The wildflowers on the Lost Horse Mine Hike light up the hillsides in the spring, and the stillness of the desert peaks seems alive with life.

14. Have Fun at the World Famous Crochet Museum

Address: 61855 CA-62, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, USA

This is one of the unique sights in Joshua Tree, and it’s definitely worth a visit! A former one-hour fotomat booth in Joshua Tree can be found down a road off the main street. In addition, the World Famous Crochet Museum is housed in this tiny structure! The Crochet Museum is crammed with crocheted animals, and there are a lot of them!

Even the Crochet Museum itself has been recreated in crochet!

An incredible collection of crocheted things made by aunts and grandmothers in the 1970s may be found at the World Famous Crochet Museum. Even more remarkable is that Shari Elf has preserved these treasures in a retro trailer. The collection is more than just a “museum,” it’s a genuine work of art in and of itself.

The museum’s collection of crocheted animals includes donkeys, elephants, alligators, and rabbits. Additionally, there is Batman, a fruit bowl, and plenty of other peculiar stuff on exhibit. Both Shari Elf and other crochet enthusiasts from throughout the world contributed to the collection. Shari began her collection with poodles, so there are a lot of them. Be warned.

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15. Savor the Taste of the Countryside at JT Country Kitchen

Address: 61768 Twentynine Palms Highway, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, United States

A trip is not complete without eating authentic food from this side of the country. For this, we recommend you visit JT Country Kitchen. This restaurant is well-reviewed and loved by both locals and tourists.

They offer a wide variety of countryside cuisines, including steak and eggs, country-style breakfast meals, salads, sandwiches, desserts, and more. JT Country Kitchen is especially popular for its homemade gravy.

Whatever your plans are in Joshua Tree, make sure you include JT Country Kitchen in your itinerary. They offer amazing food, great service, and a restaurant ambiance that will get you into the mood.

16. Experience Relaxation Like No Other at the Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel

Address: 10805 Palm Dr, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240, United States

The Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel is another perfect spot to relax and unwind. While it is well-known for being a historical landmark in the city and its use of natural mineral waters, the hotel offers other a variety of excellent amenities for its guests.

Enjoy a day at the pool with Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel’s eight large hot mineral water pools overlooking the St. Jacinto Mountains. The pools are available to all ages, so you can bring the whole family.

For accommodations, they have guest rooms and villages. The hotel is designed to be your home in the desert, with soft mattresses, sitting spaces, private outdoor space, amenities, and more.

Palm Springs is just down the road, and along Palm Canyon Drive, you’ll discover the main shopping center, which includes vintage stores and interior design boutiques. 

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17. Grab a Healthy Meal at the Natural Sisters Cafe

Address: 61695 Twentynine Palms Highway, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, United States

This vegetarian restaurant is a perfect place to stop for lunch if you’re not a fan of meat. The coffee at Natural Sisters Cafe will get you going in the morning or give you a boost in the afternoon.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy, low-fat, vegan, or gluten-free meal option, Natural Sisters Cafe is the place to go. Bring your kids to this coffee shop, where the cuisine and atmosphere are designed with families in mind.

You’ll pass Natural Sister’s Cafe just before you reach Park Blvd, the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park, on your approach to the highway. In a tiny shopping center, there is a parking lot just in front of it, and it’s easy to find a space.

18. Feel the Rhythm at the Joshua Tree Music Festival

Address: 2601 Sunfair Rd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, United States

The Joshua Tree Music Festival is an event held twice a year for three days and four nights. This once-in-a-lifetime musical event does not just feature music but also offers different fun activities for everyone. 

The Joshua Tree Music Festival combines a distinct desert vibe with a lineup of different musical acts to create a truly global music experience. It is specially created for people who have a love for music. 

Attractions such as the Music Bowl and 27 music workshops, didjeridu sessions, and a late-night Astronomy Theater and the World Market make this a must-see destination.

The festival is guaranteed to be family-friendly. The Kidsville part of the festival has a wide variety of activities to keep the younger members of your family occupied. Hula hooping, yoga, live art, and the astronomical theater are some of the available activities.

Aside from that, it’s a stunning location. A tranquil lake, illuminated by floodlights at night, and desert rock formations are what you can expect.

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19. Drink Up at the Joshua Tree Saloon

Address: 61835 Twentynine Palms Highway, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, United States

Located about four miles outside of Joshua Tree, this old-fashioned bar is the ideal resting place for tired travelers. Not only do they welcome you and your pet with open arms, but your four-legged companion can join you for a meal of grilled American favorites.

The western-themed Joshua Tree Saloon is a great spot to unwind over drinks or dinner. On Saturdays, the Saloon features live music and a fully stocked bar with a wide variety of cocktails and beers on tap. You can have some light fare or watch a game while sipping on your favorite beverage at this pet-friendly establishment.

If you’ve been out all day photographing huge boulders, you’re going to be starving when you get home, therefore the menu is chock full of burgers, sandwiches, and large plates of meat. On Sundays, there’s a boozy brunch and live music every night!

20. Spend a Fun-Filled Day at the Keys Ranch Tour

Address: Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, United States

The Keys Ranch Tour holds a rich history of how William F. Keys and his family inhabited the area. Bill and Frances worked together for 60 years to make a living and raise their five children in this isolated area. 

They managed to build a ranch home, a schoolhouse, a workshop, and a shop. They also raised some animals like goats, chicks, and cows and grew a vegetable and orchard garden. Deep wells, windmills, and damming up the stony valleys around the property created a lake for drinking water.

Since it has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark Register Site, people aim to maintain its historic character. As a result, the ranch only allows visitors to come on guided walking tours. The tours are only half a mile long and may last up to 90 minutes. There is a restriction on the number of persons who can visit.

A ticket must be reserved 60 days in advance of travel. This is due to the high volume of visitors that wish to visit the area.

See Related: List of US National Monuments

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree

It’s not humanly possible to explore all of the Joshua Tree National Park within a day. I’ve tried it. Didn’t work.

Thus, for tourists looking for places to stay while roaming the ends of the park, we’ve got you. Below are some of the best accommodations where you and your families can rest comfortably after your tour.

Budget Hotels

9 Palms Inn 

Address: 73193 Twentynine Palms Highway, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, United States of America

Being on a limited budget shouldn’t stop you from staying in a chic hotel. 9 Palms Inn is a budget hotel in Twentynine Palms, which is only eight minutes away from the Joshua Tree National Park. Though inexpensive, this hotel features great amenities, like private bathrooms, air-conditioned rooms, and well-furnished kitchens.

The Cactus Cabin

Address: San Bernardino County, California, United States of America

The Cactus Cabin is a cozy accommodation located deep within the Mojave Desert in Joshua Tree. This two-bedroom cabin features breathtaking views of the desert from the inside. The Cactus Cabin is close to the national park and the Joshua Tree Music Festival, so it’s an excellent choice for families looking for an affordable place to stay while vacationing. If you’re interested…

Jumbo Rocks Campground

Address: Jumbo Rocks Campground, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, United States

Are you visiting the Joshua Tree National Park because you like camping? Then, the accommodation of the Jumbo Rocks Campground should interest you. Get ready to be in awe of giant rock formations and find comfort under the stars at this humongous campsite. With 124 campsites, Jumbo Rocks is the national park’s biggest campground and your best bet for securing a spot inside the park’s boundaries.

Mid-Range Hotels

Fairfield Inn & Suites Twentynine Palms

Address: 6333 Encelia Avenue, Twentynine Palms, CA

Fairfield Inn & Suites is one of the best accommodations you can get in the area. This place is located just 6.4 kilometers from the Joshua Tree National Park. It offers a wide range of amenities—from an outdoor pool, barbecue area, 24/7 gym, and more—for mid-range rates.

Harmony Motel

Address: 71161 Twentynine Palms Highway, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, United States

Looking for a place to stay during your trip to the area just for a quick rest? Consider Harmony Hotel on your list. This hotel was built in 1958 and had a historical background. Other than comfortable rooms, they have a variety of amenities you can choose from.

Joshua Sunset Vacation House

Address: Joshua Tree, California, United States of America

Enjoy a trip to Joshua Tree at the Joshua Sunset vacation house. This place is located just three miles from downtown Joshua Tree. Here, you can bask in the seven-person pool, utilize the fully-equipped rooms, and have fun in their pool and pingpong table.

Hicksville Trailer Palace

Address: 2517 Foxy Flats Rd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, United States

Hicksville Trailer Palace is the first trailer motel in California and the second in the United States of America that was established in 2010. It is generally known to be built for artists to get away and collaborate in a more quiet place. The hotel has a total of eight trailers, each with a different style. In a way, each trailer stands out on its own, completely unique yet complementary to others.

Luxury Hotels

Sunny Vista

Address: Joshua Tree, California, United States of America

Sunny Vista is a 3000-square-foot luxury vacation home situated in the heart of Joshua Tree. It has six bedrooms, four bathrooms, a game room, two kitchens, and majestic outdoor views! This is a place that you and your family will never want to leave.

Pioneertown Motel

Address: 5240 Curtis Rd, Pioneertown, CA 92268, United States

If you’re seeking a place to stay, Pioneertown Motel is the place for you! This stylish and cozy motel with a rich Hollywood history and musical timeline will guarantee comfort during your stay. 

It is an ideal option for people visiting California. It offers a picturesque view and a variety of useful amenities to make your stay more pleasant. Other amenities include a picnic area, gift shops, firepits, and a garden.

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa

Address: 74-855 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260, United States of America

There’s nothing that screams luxury like the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa. This hotel is equipped with five pools, two golf courses, furnished rooms, world-class cuisines, and more! This top-rated resort is especially ideal for couples and families.

Sacred Sands

Address: 63155 Quail Springs Road, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, United States

Prepare to be mesmerized by the sunsets and the starry night sky, which is so black you can see the Milky Way’s shooting stars dancing across it. This is the perfect destination and getaway for parents, couples, adults, newlyweds, and families looking to unwind. Since Sacred Sands is a popular hotel, be prepared for any difficulties in making reservations. Book as early as you can to secure your spot!

Rentals in Joshua Tree

Looking for places to stay at Joshua is relatively easy as there are lots of hosts offering their transient homes for tourists. However, the majority of the rentals here are pretty plain and ordinary, though there are still some which are note-worthy where you can enjoy the view and the night sky.

You have a wide variety of choices when it comes to rentals—from rooms, cabins, entire homes, to glass houses and glamping vans. Mid-range rentals will offer you amenities, such as spa and jacuzzi, pool, camping grounds, fully-furnished spaces, etc. 

Camping & RVs

If you want to sport an RV or pitch a tent for your vacation, then Joshua Tree is the perfect destination for you. This desert is packed with plenty of RV parking spots and campgrounds. Let’s look at some of the spots where you can park your RVs and set up your tents.

• Black Rock Campground – is a perfect spot for both camping and birdwatching. You can reserve a spot at the Black Rock Campground, so you won’t have to worry about competing with other walk-in campers. 
• Belle Campground – recommended for people seeking peace and quiet. Belle Campground is a serene spot in the area.
• White Tank Campground – is ideal for stargazing as it is one of the darkest spots in Joshua Tree. They allow RVs less than 25 feet to park here.

Getting Around Joshua Tree

Getting around Joshua Tree is not the easiest as this desert area is pretty large. Additionally, though some attractions at the Joshua Tree National Park sit next to each other, there are some far-flung attractions or spots, which are hard to walk to. However, there is plenty of Joshua Tree National Park guide that you can follow.

In general, here are a few ways to get around Joshua Tree:

This is the best way to navigate through Joshua Tree as it allows you to reach your destinations with ease. There are two main ways to enter the park by car—through Park Boulevard and through Pinto Basin Road.

Park Boulevard runs between Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree, so you can get into the park via the Northern and Western Entrances. Meanwhile, Pinto Basin Road cuts across the park from the North Entrance Station towards the Cottonwood Entrance along I-10.

Inside the premises of the Joshua Tree National Park, there are some spots that you can get to on foot. For instance, you can walk from the Arch Rock Trail all the way to Skull Rock. While it needs lots of effort, it can be convenient, especially at times when parking spots are tight.

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