Joshua Tree National Park is undoubtedly a true Southern California treasure. As a desert wilderness, the park stretches up to 800,000 acres, making it accessible just a few hours outside Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Phoenix. For this weeklong trip, you will enjoy the serene desert and engage in tons of outdoor activities. The entrance fee for drivers is $30 for a seven-day vehicle permit. But if you are on foot or biking, it is half the price for the same seven days. Let’s start our glorious week of scenic experiences at Joshua Tree National Park!
If you prefer to count the stars as you drift off to sleep, a campground could be the best option for you. Located in the northwest corner of the park, Black Rock Campground boasts 99 campsites, each accommodating a group of six: three tents, and two cars.
For those who prefer to sleep between four walls, you can check into nearby lodgings since none exist in the park. We like Joshua Tree Inn, a hacienda located just three miles away from the park, offering the charm, comfort, and warmth of the desert.
The best way to enjoy the park is on foot, so go out into the wilderness. The Barker Dam Trail is a 1.1-mile loop that allows you to explore the cultural history and water tanks of early cattle ranchers. You may even spot a bighorn sheep!
This is a challenging 6.6-mile that can take up to six hours. The trailhead lies at Black Rock and goes up a sandy wash until it reaches the ridgeline of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. The scenic views of Joshua trees and pinyon-juniper woodland make it worth the effort.
From the red-tailed hawk and oak titmouse to the black-tailed and blue-gray gnatcatchers, these winged creatures provide endless bird watching opportunities. Spring invites groups of 200 or more turkey vultures to bask in the early morning sun.
Stargazing is possible from anywhere in the park. However, Cottonwood Campground is notable for having the darkest skies, making it the perfect place to observe the night sky when it is a glittering dome peppered with stars, planets, and passing meteors.
Located on the northwestern portion of the park, this backcountry road is accessible via a dirt road, making it a biking hotspot for visitors. The Covington Flat offers access to the park’s largest Joshua trees. It also offers scenic views of Palm Springs, the Morongo Basin, and surrounding mountains.
Right off the Geology Tour Road, Pleasant Valley nestles between San Bernardino and Hexie mountains. Due to its remoteness and vastness, it is the perfect spot for backpacking and driving 4WDs.
Joshua Tree National Park has over 253 miles of equestrian trails that meander through open plains, dry washes, and canyon bottoms. Most of the trails can be assessed through Black Rock Canyon and areas near the West Entrance. Horseback Riding is without a doubt one of the best ways to enjoy the park's scenery.
A week at Joshua Tree National Park really allows for a slow savor of everything this place offers. During your stay, you can stop by any of the park’s four visitor centers to ask questions or seek help for just about anything. Keep in mind that there are no restaurants or grocery stores inside the park, so pack accordingly or eat nearby restaurants.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
