Joshua Tree Camping Guide

Joshua Tree National Park, located in Southern California, is a unique and beautiful destination for camping and outdoor recreation. The park is named after its iconic Joshua trees, a type of yucca plant that is found only in this region. In addition to the trees, the park features striking rock formations, scenic vistas, and a wide variety of plant and animal life. Here is a guide to camping in Joshua Tree National Park, including tips on where to camp, what to bring, and what to do during your stay.

Where to Camp

Joshua Tree National Park has nine campgrounds, each with its own unique features and amenities. Some of the campgrounds are first-come, first-served, while others require reservations. Here’s an overview of each campground:

• Black Rock Campground: Located near the park’s northern entrance, Black Rock has 99 campsites and is open year-round. The campground has flush toilets, water, and fire rings, but no showers.
• Cottonwood Campground: Located near the park’s southern entrance, Cottonwood has 62 campsites and is open year-round. The campground has flush toilets, water, and fire rings, but no showers.
• Indian Cove Campground: Located near the park’s northwestern edge, Indian Cove has 101 campsites and is open year-round. The campground has pit toilets, water, and fire rings, but no showers.
• Jumbo Rocks Campground: Located near the park’s central area, Jumbo Rocks has 124 campsites and is open year-round. The campground has pit toilets, water, and fire rings, but no showers.
• Ryan Campground: Located near the park’s central area, Ryan has 31 campsites and is open year-round. The campground has pit toilets, water, and fire rings, but no showers.
• Belle Campground: Located near the park’s southeastern edge, Belle has 18 campsites and is open year-round. The campground has pit toilets, water, and fire rings, but no showers.
• Hidden Valley Campground: Located near the park’s central area, Hidden Valley has 44 campsites and is open year-round. The campground has pit toilets, water, and fire rings, but no showers.
• White Tank Campground: Located near the park’s northeastern edge, White Tank has 15 campsites and is open year-round. The campground has pit toilets, water, and fire rings, but no showers.
• Group Campgrounds: Joshua Tree National Park also has several group campgrounds that can accommodate larger groups of campers. These campgrounds require reservations and have varying amenities.

What to Bring

When camping in Joshua Tree National Park, it’s important to be prepared for the desert environment. Here are some essential items to bring:

• Water: The park recommends bringing at least one gallon of water per person per day. There are no water sources within the park’s campgrounds, so you’ll need to bring your own.
• Sunscreen: The desert sun can be intense, so make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and wear a hat to protect your skin.
• Warm Clothing: Temperatures in the park can vary widely, especially at night. Bring warm clothing, even if you’re visiting in the summer.
• Camping Gear: Bring a tent, sleeping bags, and any other camping gear you’ll need. Don’t forget a portable stove, as fires are only allowed in designated fire rings.
• Food: Bring plenty of non-perishable food, as there are no stores within the park.
• Maps and Guidebooks: Pick up a map and guidebook at the park’s visitor center or bring your own.