{"id":161105,"date":"2026-05-14T16:19:27","date_gmt":"2026-05-14T14:19:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/?p=161105"},"modified":"2026-05-15T13:29:18","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T11:29:18","slug":"joshua-tree-national-park-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Joshua Tree National Park, California: Guide with 15 Things to See and Do"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>You&#8217;re standing in the middle of nowhere. Nothing but boulders, sand, and bizarre trees that look like they belong on another planet. The silence is so absolute you can hear your own heartbeat. Then you look up \u2014 and above you stretches a starry sky so immense it feels like the universe has reached down to touch the earth. That&#8217;s what an evening at <strong>Joshua Tree National Park<\/strong> looks like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I first visited Joshua Tree over 15 years ago with my dad, and with every road trip since, I&#8217;ve been itching to go back. In photos, it looks like a desert full of rocks. In reality, it&#8217;s one of the most magical places we&#8217;ve ever visited in the USA. And trust me, we&#8217;ve been to quite a few. \ud83d\ude05<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Joshua Tree is the California nobody talks about. No surf beaches, no Hollywood. Just the raw beauty of the desert, bizarre rock formations, and those iconic trees that gave the park its name. And yet it&#8217;s only about two hours from Los Angeles or Palm Springs \u2014 perfect for a day trip or a weekend escape from civilisation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, you&#8217;ll find <strong>15 things to see and do in Joshua Tree National Park<\/strong> \u2014 from the most stunning viewpoints and hiking trails to stargazing, practical tips on where to stay, how much it costs, and the best time to visit. Let&#8217;s dive in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-obytny-vuz.jpg\" alt=\"Retro campervan in the desert landscape of Joshua Tree\" class=\"wp-image-159403\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-obytny-vuz.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-obytny-vuz-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-obytny-vuz-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-obytny-vuz-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-obytny-vuz-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#TLDR\" >TL;DR<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#When_to_visit_Joshua_Tree_and_how_to_get_there\" >When to visit Joshua Tree and how to get there<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Best_time_to_visit\" >Best time to visit<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#How_to_get_to_Joshua_Tree\" >How to get to Joshua Tree<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Where_to_stay_and_how_much_Joshua_Tree_costs\" >Where to stay and how much Joshua Tree costs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Camping_in_the_park\" >Camping in the park<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Accommodation_outside_the_park\" >Accommodation outside the park<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#How_much_does_a_trip_to_Joshua_Tree_cost\" >How much does a trip to Joshua Tree cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Joshua_Tree_National_Park_15_things_to_see_and_do\" >Joshua Tree National Park: 15 things to see and do<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#1_Hidden_Valley_%E2%80%94_a_rock_amphitheatre_straight_out_of_a_western\" >1. Hidden Valley \u2014 a rock amphitheatre straight out of a western<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#2_Skull_Rock_%E2%80%94_the_most_photogenic_rock_in_the_park\" >2. Skull Rock \u2014 the most photogenic rock in the park<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#3_Keys_View_%E2%80%94_panoramic_views_over_Coachella_Valley\" >3. Keys View \u2014 panoramic views over Coachella Valley<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#4_Cholla_Cactus_Garden_%E2%80%94_cacti_that_look_cuddly_but_dont_touch\" >4. Cholla Cactus Garden \u2014 cacti that look cuddly (but don&#8217;t touch!)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#5_Barker_Dam_%E2%80%94_a_desert_oasis_with_water_if_youre_lucky\" >5. Barker Dam \u2014 a desert oasis with water (if you&#8217;re lucky)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#6_Arch_Rock_%E2%80%94_a_natural_stone_arch\" >6. Arch Rock \u2014 a natural stone arch<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#7_Ryan_Mountain_%E2%80%94_the_best_view_in_the_park_for_those_up_for_a_climb\" >7. Ryan Mountain \u2014 the best view in the park (for those up for a climb)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#8_Stargazing_%E2%80%94_a_night_sky_like_a_planetarium\" >8. Stargazing \u2014 a night sky like a planetarium<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#9_Rock_climbing_and_bouldering_%E2%80%94_a_climbers_mecca\" >9. Rock climbing and bouldering \u2014 a climber&#8217;s mecca<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#10_Cap_Rock_%E2%80%94_an_easy_trail_with_iconic_views\" >10. Cap Rock \u2014 an easy trail with iconic views<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#11_49_Palms_Oasis_%E2%80%94_a_hidden_desert_oasis\" >11. 49 Palms Oasis \u2014 a hidden desert oasis<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#12_Lost_Horse_Mine_%E2%80%94_a_journey_into_the_gold_rush\" >12. Lost Horse Mine \u2014 a journey into the gold rush<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#13_Cottonwood_Spring_%E2%80%94_gateway_to_the_Colorado_Desert\" >13. Cottonwood Spring \u2014 gateway to the Colorado Desert<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#14_Geology_Tour_Road_%E2%80%94_an_off-road_adventure\" >14. Geology Tour Road \u2014 an off-road adventure<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#15_Joshua_trees_%E2%80%94_get_to_know_the_iconic_tree_that_gave_the_park_its_name\" >15. Joshua trees \u2014 get to know the iconic tree that gave the park its name<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Where_to_eat_and_drink_near_Joshua_Tree\" >Where to eat and drink near Joshua Tree<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Joshua_Tree_Village\" >Joshua Tree Village<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Twentynine_Palms\" >Twentynine Palms<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Yucca_Valley\" >Yucca Valley<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Piets_Camp\" >Piet&#8217;s Camp<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Practical_tips_before_you_go\" >Practical tips before you go<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Entry_fees_and_passes\" >Entry fees and passes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#What_to_pack\" >What to pack<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Phone_and_signal\" >Phone and signal<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Safety\" >Safety<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#Flights_and_insurance\" >Flights and insurance<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/joshua-tree-national-park-guide\/#FAQ_%E2%80%94_Frequently_asked_questions_about_Joshua_Tree_National_Park\" >FAQ \u2014 Frequently asked questions about Joshua Tree National Park<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TLDR\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TL_DR\"><\/span>TL;DR<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Joshua Tree National Park<\/strong> sits at the meeting point of two deserts \u2014 Mojave and Colorado \u2014 and each looks completely different. Mojave is home to the iconic Joshua trees, while Colorado is lower and filled with cacti.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The best time to visit<\/strong> is from October to May \u2014 in summer, temperatures exceed 40 \u00b0C and the park becomes genuinely inhospitable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From LA, it&#8217;s about a 2.5-hour drive<\/strong>, and from Palm Springs just 45 minutes. Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Entry fee<\/strong> is $30 per vehicle (about \u20ac28) for 7 days, or free with an annual America the Beautiful Pass ($80\/\u20ac75).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Skull Rock, Keys View, Cholla Cactus Garden, and Hidden Valley<\/strong> are among the top attractions you can cover in a single day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Joshua Tree is one of the best stargazing spots in all of California<\/strong> \u2014 the park is designated an International Dark Sky Park.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Accommodation<\/strong> is relatively affordable \u2014 campsites in the park start from $15\/night, Airbnbs in surrounding towns from $80\/night.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you love <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/narodni-park-yellowstone\/\">US national parks<\/a>, Joshua Tree should be high on your list.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bring water!<\/strong> There are no drinking water sources in the park. Plan on at least 4 litres per person per day.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_visit_Joshua_Tree_and_how_to_get_there\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_visit_Joshua_Tree_and_how_to_get_there\"><\/span>When to visit Joshua Tree and how to get there<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Joshua Tree National Park is open year-round, but not every season is ideal for a visit. In fact \u2014 you really don&#8217;t want to come in summer. I know that sounds like a clich\u00e9, but 45 \u00b0C in the shade (and shade is nearly impossible to find here) is a completely different ball game compared to a pleasant 25 \u00b0C in autumn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_time_to_visit\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_time_to_visit\"><\/span>Best time to visit<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>October to May<\/strong> \u2014 that&#8217;s the sweet spot. The most beautiful time is <strong>spring (March\u2013April)<\/strong>, when the Joshua trees bloom and the desert comes alive with wildflowers. Daytime temperatures hover around 20\u201325 \u00b0C, dropping to 5\u201310 \u00b0C at night. Autumn (October\u2013November) is similarly pleasant with fewer crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>December to February<\/strong> \u2014 surprisingly gorgeous, though you&#8217;ll want to prepare for colder nights (around 0 \u00b0C). During the day, it&#8217;s sunny and around 15 \u00b0C, which is actually ideal for hiking. And the tourist numbers are at their lowest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>June to September<\/strong> \u2014 unless you enjoy saunas, stay away. Temperatures regularly exceed 40 \u00b0C and most trails are in full sun. Rangers recommend going outside only in the early morning or late afternoon. We wouldn&#8217;t visit in summer. Just no. \ud83d\ude05<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_Joshua_Tree\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_Joshua_Tree\"><\/span>How to get to Joshua Tree<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>From Los Angeles<\/strong> \u2014 roughly 2.5 hours by car on the I-10 East. If you&#8217;re coming from LA, I&#8217;d recommend entering through the <strong>West Entrance<\/strong> near the town of Joshua Tree Village, so you drive through the most interesting part of the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>From Palm Springs<\/strong> \u2014 just 45 minutes! Palm Springs makes a great base if you want to combine the desert with some poolside relaxation. You&#8217;ll reach the park via the North Entrance near Twentynine Palms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>From San Diego<\/strong> \u2014 about 3 hours via the I-15 North and CA-62.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>From the UK<\/strong>, you&#8217;ll want to fly into Los Angeles (LAX) or Palm Springs (PSP). Airlines like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Norwegian offer direct flights from London to LAX. From there, you&#8217;ll need to hire a car \u2014 there&#8217;s no public transport in the park and the distances between attractions are huge (the park covers over 3,200 km\u00b2). We&#8217;ve had consistently good experiences with <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"RentalCars.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/rentalcars-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">RentalCars<\/a>, which we use all over the world \u2014 prices in California start from about $35\/day (around \u20ac33) for a compact car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 TIP:<\/strong> Fill up your tank BEFORE entering the park. There are no petrol stations inside. The last chance is in the towns of Joshua Tree Village, Twentynine Palms, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129448&amp;hotelname=Cottonwood&amp;address=Joshua%20Tree%20National%20Park%2C%20USA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Cottonwood<\/a> Spring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_and_how_much_Joshua_Tree_costs\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_and_how_much_Joshua_Tree_costs\"><\/span>Where to stay and how much Joshua Tree costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The area around Joshua Tree National Park has a surprisingly wide range of accommodation \u2014 from primitive desert campsites to stylish Airbnbs with hot tubs and views of the stars. It all depends on whether you want the full desert immersion experience, or you&#8217;d rather return to a bed with air conditioning after a day of hiking (no judgement here \ud83d\ude01).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Camping_in_the_park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Camping_in_the_park\"><\/span>Camping in the park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The park has <strong>9 campgrounds<\/strong> with roughly 500 sites in total. Most operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129448&amp;hotelname=Black%20Rock&amp;address=Joshua%20Tree%20National%20Park%2C%20USA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Black Rock<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129448&amp;hotelname=Indian%20Cove&amp;address=Joshua%20Tree%20National%20Park%2C%20USA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Indian Cove<\/a><\/strong> can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cost:<\/strong> $15\u2013$25\/night per site (about \u20ac14\u2013\u20ac23)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129448&amp;hotelname=Jumbo%20Rocks&amp;address=Joshua%20Tree%20National%20Park%2C%20USA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Jumbo Rocks<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 our favourite. Massive boulders right around your tent, absolute silence, stunning stars. No water or showers, but the atmosphere is priceless.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Black Rock<\/strong> \u2014 more comfortable, with drinking water and flush toilets. Ideal if you&#8217;re new to camping.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indian Cove<\/strong> \u2014 beautiful setting among the rocks, close to the North Entrance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u26a0\ufe0f Important:<\/strong> During peak season (October\u2013May, especially weekends), campsites fill up early in the morning. Arrive on Friday morning, or even Thursday. On bank holiday weekends, you&#8217;ve got no chance without a reservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Accommodation_outside_the_park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Accommodation_outside_the_park\"><\/span>Accommodation outside the park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The towns of <strong>Joshua Tree Village<\/strong>, <strong>Twentynine Palms<\/strong>, and <strong>Yucca Valley<\/strong> offer hundreds of unique Airbnbs \u2014 this area has become a hotspot for designer desert cabins. Many feature a hot tub under the stars, which is an absolutely divine experience after a full day of scrambling over rocks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Airbnb\/VRBO:<\/strong> from $80\/night (about \u20ac75) for a simple studio; stylish homes with pools $150\u2013300\/night (\u20ac140\u2013\u20ac280)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hotels:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129448&amp;hotelname=Holiday%20Inn%20Express&amp;address=Twentynine%20Palms%2C%20USA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Holiday Inn Express<\/a> in Twentynine Palms from $100\/night (\u20ac93), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129448&amp;hotelname=Fairfield%20Inn&amp;address=Twentynine%20Palms%2C%20USA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Fairfield Inn<\/a> from $120\/night (\u20ac112)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Palm Springs<\/strong> (45 min from the park): more upscale hotels from $150\/night, but factor in the commute<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<p><!-- UBYTOVANI:JOSHUA TREE --><\/p>\n<p><!-- UBYTOVANI:PALM SPRINGS --><\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_a_trip_to_Joshua_Tree_cost\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_a_trip_to_Joshua_Tree_cost\"><\/span>How much does a trip to Joshua Tree cost<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To give you an idea \u2014 here&#8217;s what a <strong>weekend trip for two from LA<\/strong> looks like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Entry fee:<\/strong> $30 per vehicle for 7 days (\u20ac28) or free with an America the Beautiful Pass ($80\/\u20ac75 per year \u2014 well worth it if you&#8217;re visiting 3+ parks)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fuel (LA return + driving in the park):<\/strong> around $40\u201360 (\u20ac37\u2013\u20ac56)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Accommodation (2 nights):<\/strong> campsite $30\u201350 (\u20ac28\u2013\u20ac47) \/ Airbnb $160\u2013400 (\u20ac150\u2013\u20ac373)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Food (2 days):<\/strong> $50\u2013100 per person (\u20ac47\u2013\u20ac93)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total for two:<\/strong> from about \u20ac160 (camping, self-catering) to \u20ac600 (Airbnb, restaurants)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Joshua Tree is simply one of the most affordable national parks in California. Especially if you camp and cook for yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Joshua_Tree_National_Park_15_things_to_see_and_do\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Joshua_Tree_National_Park_15_things_to_see_and_do\"><\/span>Joshua Tree National Park: 15 things to see and do<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now we&#8217;re getting to the good stuff \u2014 specific tips on what to see and do in Joshua Tree. The park is surprisingly diverse and sprawling, so even if you spent an entire week here, you&#8217;d still be discovering new corners. I&#8217;ve arranged these tips so you can drive them in order from the West Entrance heading south \u2014 but of course, adjust the route to your own pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Hidden_Valley_%E2%80%94_a_rock_amphitheatre_straight_out_of_a_western\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Hidden_Valley_a_rock_amphitheatre_straight_out_of_a_western\"><\/span>1. Hidden Valley \u2014 a rock amphitheatre straight out of a western<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-hidden-valley-balvany.jpg\" alt=\"Giant boulders in the Hidden Valley area of Joshua Tree\" class=\"wp-image-159404\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-hidden-valley-balvany.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-hidden-valley-balvany-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-hidden-valley-balvany-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-hidden-valley-balvany-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-hidden-valley-balvany-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Hidden Valley is where you truly understand why Joshua Tree became a mecca for rock climbers. It&#8217;s a <strong>1.6 km loop trail<\/strong> (rated easy) that winds through an enclosed rock valley surrounded by enormous granite boulders. It looks like a natural amphitheatre \u2014 and legend has it that cowboys used to hide stolen cattle here, since the valley has only one narrow entrance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The trail is flat and comfortable \u2014 even small children can manage it. But that doesn&#8217;t mean it&#8217;s boring \u2014 far from it. At every turn, you&#8217;ll be surprised by a new rock formation, Joshua trees growing out of cracks in the stone, and views that&#8217;ll stop you in your tracks. Allow about 45\u201360 minutes if you plan to stop for photos (and you will, trust me).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 TIP:<\/strong> Come either early morning or late afternoon. Partly for the photography light (golden hour here is absolutely magical), but mainly because the car park is small and gets packed during the day. On weekends, it&#8217;s already full by 10 a.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Skull_Rock_%E2%80%94_the_most_photogenic_rock_in_the_park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Skull_Rock_the_most_photogenic_rock_in_the_park\"><\/span>2. Skull Rock \u2014 the most photogenic rock in the park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-skull-rock.jpg\" alt=\"Skull Rock formation resembling a human skull\" class=\"wp-image-159405\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-skull-rock.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-skull-rock-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-skull-rock-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-skull-rock-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-skull-rock-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Skull Rock is exactly what the name suggests \u2014 a massive boulder that looks like a human skull. It&#8217;s one of the most iconic attractions in Joshua Tree and you&#8217;ve probably seen it on every other Instagram post from the park. And you know what? It&#8217;s even better in person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The rock sits right along the main road (Park Boulevard), so you don&#8217;t even need to walk far \u2014 just park up and it&#8217;s right there. However, there&#8217;s also a <strong>2.4 km Discovery Trail<\/strong> that passes Skull Rock and continues among other fascinating rock formations. I&#8217;d definitely recommend it, because the area around the skull itself can get crowded, but walk just 200 metres and you&#8217;ll have peace and quiet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the best photos, get a slightly elevated angle \u2014 walk around the back of the rock, climb up a bit, and you&#8217;ll get a perfect shot of the &#8220;eye sockets.&#8221; If you don&#8217;t mind a little scrambling, that is. \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Keys_View_%E2%80%94_panoramic_views_over_Coachella_Valley\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Keys_View_panoramic_views_over_Coachella_Valley\"><\/span>3. Keys View \u2014 panoramic views over Coachella Valley<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-0-vyhled-z-keys-view-na-coachella-valley.jpg\" alt=\"View from Keys View over Coachella Valley\" class=\"wp-image-159863\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-0-vyhled-z-keys-view-na-coachella-valley.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-0-vyhled-z-keys-view-na-coachella-valley-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-0-vyhled-z-keys-view-na-coachella-valley-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-0-vyhled-z-keys-view-na-coachella-valley-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-0-vyhled-z-keys-view-na-coachella-valley-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-0-vyhled-z-keys-view-na-coachella-valley-160x120.jpg 160w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-0-vyhled-z-keys-view-na-coachella-valley-696x522.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Farragutful \/ CC BY-SA 4.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you only have time for one viewpoint in Joshua Tree, make it <strong>Keys View<\/strong>. You&#8217;ll stand on the edge of a ridge at 1,581 metres and below you stretches the entire Coachella Valley \u2014 from Palm Springs across the Salton Sea all the way to the Mexican mountains in the distance. On a clear day, you can even see Signal Mountain in Mexico, over 150 km away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You reach the viewpoint by car via Keys View Road \u2014 it&#8217;s a turnoff from Park Boulevard heading south, about a 30-minute drive. The car park is right at the top and the viewpoint is just a few dozen metres along a paved path (wheelchair accessible). No hiking required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>It&#8217;s most beautiful at sunset<\/strong>, when the entire valley turns shades of orange and pink. But be warned \u2014 lots of people head here for sunset, so arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a parking spot. We got there an hour before sunset and just managed to find a space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From Keys View, you can also clearly see the <strong>San Andreas Fault<\/strong> \u2014 the famous tectonic fault line that runs through all of California. It looks like an enormous scar in the landscape. Fascinating and a little terrifying at the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Cholla_Cactus_Garden_%E2%80%94_cacti_that_look_cuddly_but_dont_touch\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Cholla_Cactus_Garden_cacti_that_look_cuddly_but_dont_touch\"><\/span>4. Cholla Cactus Garden \u2014 cacti that look cuddly (but don&#8217;t touch!)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"795\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-1-zahrada-kaktusu-cholla-cactus-garden.jpg\" alt=\"Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park\" class=\"wp-image-159865\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-1-zahrada-kaktusu-cholla-cactus-garden.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-1-zahrada-kaktusu-cholla-cactus-garden-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-1-zahrada-kaktusu-cholla-cactus-garden-700x464.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-1-zahrada-kaktusu-cholla-cactus-garden-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-1-zahrada-kaktusu-cholla-cactus-garden-696x461.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Steven Lek \/ CC BY-SA 4.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This place is <strong>utterly surreal<\/strong>. Imagine a garden filled with thousands of cacti that look like cuddly teddy bears covered in golden fuzz. In the late afternoon light, they literally glow. It&#8217;s one of the most photogenic spots in the entire park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cholla Cactus Garden lies in the southern part of the park, in the Colorado Desert (the lower, warmer section), and you reach it via Pinto Basin Road. A short <strong>loop trail (about 400 metres)<\/strong> leads right among the cacti along a marked path. And here comes the important warning:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u26a0\ufe0f DO NOT TOUCH THE CACTI.<\/strong> Seriously. Teddy bear cholla (Cylindropuntia bigelovii) look adorable, but their spines literally latch onto anything that brushes past them. All it takes is a light graze with your sleeve and they&#8217;re embedded in your skin. They&#8217;re so sneaky they&#8217;re called &#8220;jumping cactus&#8221; \u2014 people say they jump at you. They don&#8217;t actually jump, but the spines do break off and attach incredibly easily. Wear closed shoes and keep children (and dogs, though dogs aren&#8217;t actually allowed on trails in the park) close by.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best time to visit is <strong>late afternoon<\/strong>, when the setting sun backlights the cactus spines and the whole garden looks like it&#8217;s burning with golden fire. It&#8217;s one of those moments where you put your phone away and just take it all in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Barker_Dam_%E2%80%94_a_desert_oasis_with_water_if_youre_lucky\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Barker_Dam_a_desert_oasis_with_water_if_youre_lucky\"><\/span>5. Barker Dam \u2014 a desert oasis with water (if you&#8217;re lucky)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"795\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-2-pousti-nadrz-barker-dam-v-narodnim-parku-joshua-tree.jpg\" alt=\"Desert reservoir Barker Dam in Joshua Tree National Park\" class=\"wp-image-159870\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-2-pousti-nadrz-barker-dam-v-narodnim-parku-joshua-tree.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-2-pousti-nadrz-barker-dam-v-narodnim-parku-joshua-tree-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-2-pousti-nadrz-barker-dam-v-narodnim-parku-joshua-tree-700x464.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-2-pousti-nadrz-barker-dam-v-narodnim-parku-joshua-tree-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-2-pousti-nadrz-barker-dam-v-narodnim-parku-joshua-tree-696x461.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: King of Hearts \/ CC BY-SA 3.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Barker Dam is a <strong>2.2 km loop trail<\/strong> (easy) that takes you to a small dam built by ranchers at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. When it rains (which is far from guaranteed in the desert), a small lake forms here that attracts wildlife \u2014 bighorn sheep, rabbits, birds, and occasionally coyotes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even when the reservoir is dry (which happens during the drier months), the trail itself is well worth it. It winds through beautiful rock formations and Joshua trees, and a short detour from the main trail leads to <strong>petroglyphs<\/strong> \u2014 ancient rock art by the area&#8217;s indigenous peoples (Cahuilla and Serrano). They&#8217;re hundreds of years old, and it&#8217;s humbling to realise that people walked through this very place long before us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 TIP:<\/strong> The trail starts at the Barker Dam car park, which it shares with Hidden Valley. If you arrive early in the morning, you can easily do both trails back to back \u2014 roughly 2\u20133 hours of relaxed walking in total.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Arch_Rock_%E2%80%94_a_natural_stone_arch\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Arch_Rock_a_natural_stone_arch\"><\/span>6. Arch Rock \u2014 a natural stone arch<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"770\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-3-prirodni-skalni-oblouk-arch-rock.jpg\" alt=\"Natural stone arch Arch Rock in Joshua Tree\" class=\"wp-image-159873\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-3-prirodni-skalni-oblouk-arch-rock.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-3-prirodni-skalni-oblouk-arch-rock-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-3-prirodni-skalni-oblouk-arch-rock-700x449.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-3-prirodni-skalni-oblouk-arch-rock-768x493.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-3-prirodni-skalni-oblouk-arch-rock-696x447.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: John D. from Pasadena, USA \/ CC BY 2.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you love natural stone arches (and who doesn&#8217;t?), Arch Rock is a must-see. It&#8217;s not as grand as the famous arches in Utah, but it has its own charm \u2014 and the trail leading to it from <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129448&amp;hotelname=White%20Tank%20Campground&amp;address=Joshua%20Tree%20National%20Park%2C%20USA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">White Tank Campground<\/a><\/strong> is lovely (about 1.2 km return).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The rock arch is quite photogenic, especially in the golden afternoon light. Lots of people come here for sunset too. The trail is easy and well-marked, though the final stretch involves some rock hopping, so I&#8217;d recommend sturdy <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/how-choose-hiking-boots\/\">hiking boots<\/a> rather than flip-flops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Around Arch Rock, there are also plenty of boulders perfect for bouldering \u2014 you&#8217;ll see climbers everywhere. Even if you don&#8217;t climb yourself, it&#8217;s great fun to sit down for a bit and watch people scrambling up vertical walls. Better entertainment than the telly. \ud83d\ude01<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Ryan_Mountain_%E2%80%94_the_best_view_in_the_park_for_those_up_for_a_climb\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Ryan_Mountain_the_best_view_in_the_park_for_those_up_for_a_climb\"><\/span>7. Ryan Mountain \u2014 the best view in the park (for those up for a climb)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-stezka.jpg\" alt=\"Joshua tree among boulders along a trail in the park\" class=\"wp-image-159406\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-stezka.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-stezka-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-stezka-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-stezka-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-stezka-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want <strong>the best 360\u00b0 panorama<\/strong> of the entire Joshua Tree National Park, you need to tackle Ryan Mountain. It&#8217;s a bit more challenging though \u2014 the trail is <strong>4.8 km<\/strong> return with 305 metres of elevation gain. Nothing extreme, but the desert sun makes it harder than the numbers suggest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From the summit (1,768 m), you can see virtually the entire park \u2014 Lost Horse Valley, Queen Valley, Pleasant Valley, and on a clear day even San Gorgonio Mountain (the highest peak in Southern California). It&#8217;s simply jaw-dropping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>When to go:<\/strong> Definitely early morning (ideally before 8:00) or late afternoon. There&#8217;s virtually no shade on the trail and the midday sun can make it genuinely dangerous. Bring <strong>plenty of water<\/strong> (at least 2 litres per person), a hat, and sunscreen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The ascent takes around 1.5\u20132 hours including photo stops. The trail is exposed to the sun the entire way, but the surface is well-maintained and the markings are clear. There&#8217;s plenty of space at the summit to rest and soak in the views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Stargazing_%E2%80%94_a_night_sky_like_a_planetarium\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Stargazing_a_night_sky_like_a_planetarium\"><\/span>8. Stargazing \u2014 a night sky like a planetarium<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Joshua Tree has been certified as an <strong>International Dark Sky Park<\/strong> since 2017, which means light pollution is minimal and the night sky is absolutely spectacular. The Milky Way isn&#8217;t just a faint smudge here \u2014 it&#8217;s a wide, brilliant band of stars stretching from horizon to horizon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re camping in the park, all you need to do is step outside your tent and look up. If you&#8217;re staying elsewhere, the park is open 24 hours a day and you can return in the evening specifically for stargazing. The best spots are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cottonwood Spring<\/strong> \u2014 the southernmost part of the park, furthest from any light sources<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keys View<\/strong> \u2014 great views plus dark skies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Jumbo Rocks<\/strong> \u2014 if you&#8217;re camping here, it&#8217;s right outside your tent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>When:<\/strong> The best conditions are around the <strong>new moon<\/strong>, when there&#8217;s no moonlight in the sky. Apps like Star Walk or Sky Guide will help you identify constellations, planets, and satellites. Rangers also run <strong>Night Sky Programs<\/strong> \u2014 free sessions with telescopes, usually on Saturday evenings (check nps.gov\/jotr for details).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For us, this was one of the highlights of the entire trip. Lying on a blanket in the middle of the desert, the Milky Way overhead and absolute silence all around. No hotel can replicate moments like these. \u263a\ufe0f<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Rock_climbing_and_bouldering_%E2%80%94_a_climbers_mecca\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Rock_climbing_and_bouldering_a_climbers_mecca\"><\/span>9. Rock climbing and bouldering \u2014 a climber&#8217;s mecca<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-balvany-lezeni.jpg\" alt=\"Granite boulders in Joshua Tree, a paradise for rock climbers\" class=\"wp-image-159407\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-balvany-lezeni.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-balvany-lezeni-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-balvany-lezeni-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-balvany-lezeni-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-balvany-lezeni-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Joshua Tree is one of the <strong>most famous climbing destinations in the USA<\/strong>. The park boasts over 8,000 climbing routes across more than 400 rock formations \u2014 from simple boulders to challenging multi-pitch climbs. The granite here has an amazing texture with natural holds and cracks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if you&#8217;ve never climbed before, you can give it a go. Several local companies offer <strong>half-day and full-day climbing courses for complete beginners<\/strong> \u2014 they provide all the equipment and teach you the basics. It&#8217;s a fantastic experience that gives you an entirely new appreciation for the rocks you&#8217;d otherwise just walk past.<\/p>\n\n\n<p><!-- GYG:JOSHUA TREE (no mapping) --><\/p>\n\n\n<p>Popular bouldering areas for beginners include <strong>Quail Springs<\/strong> and the <strong>Hidden Valley Campground Area<\/strong>. If you just want to watch climbers in action, stop by <strong>Intersection Rock<\/strong> right at the junction near Hidden Valley \u2014 there&#8217;s almost always someone on the wall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Cap_Rock_%E2%80%94_an_easy_trail_with_iconic_views\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Cap_Rock_an_easy_trail_with_iconic_views\"><\/span>10. Cap Rock \u2014 an easy trail with iconic views<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cap Rock is a short <strong>0.6 km loop trail<\/strong> around an interesting rock formation that looks like someone placed a giant beret on top of a stone pillar. It&#8217;s a quick stop that won&#8217;t take more than 20 minutes, but it&#8217;s photogenic and fully accessible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The main reason to stop here, though, is the <strong>views of the surrounding landscape full of Joshua trees<\/strong>. The Cap Rock car park also serves as a good starting point for longer trails towards Lost Horse Mine (see tip #12). And if you&#8217;re a music fan \u2014 there&#8217;s a memorial to <strong>Gram Parsons<\/strong> at Cap Rock, a member of The Byrds and pioneer of country-rock, who died here in 1973.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_49_Palms_Oasis_%E2%80%94_a_hidden_desert_oasis\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_49_Palms_Oasis_a_hidden_desert_oasis\"><\/span>11. 49 Palms Oasis \u2014 a hidden desert oasis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"801\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-4-skryta-oaza-palem-49-palms-oasis.jpg\" alt=\"Hidden palm oasis 49 Palms Oasis\" class=\"wp-image-159877\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-4-skryta-oaza-palem-49-palms-oasis.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-4-skryta-oaza-palem-49-palms-oasis-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-4-skryta-oaza-palem-49-palms-oasis-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-4-skryta-oaza-palem-49-palms-oasis-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129448-4-skryta-oaza-palem-49-palms-oasis-696x465.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Joshua Tree National Park \/ Public domain \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This is one of those trails mainly known to locals. <strong>49 Palms Oasis Trail<\/strong> is <strong>4.8 km<\/strong> return with about 200 metres of elevation gain, leading to a hidden oasis full of California fan palms. After walking through the desert for an hour, you&#8217;ll suddenly spot a green dot in the middle of the parched landscape \u2014 and when you get closer, you find yourself in the shade of tall palms beside a small spring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The trail starts <strong>outside the main part of the park<\/strong> \u2014 the trailhead is off Canyon Road near Twentynine Palms. The path follows a ridge with views over Coachella Valley (stunning!) and then descends into a canyon towards the oasis. The return climb out of the oasis is more demanding since you&#8217;re heading uphill \u2014 allow 2\u20133 hours for the round trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u26a0\ufe0f Warning:<\/strong> There is no shade on the trail (except at the oasis itself). In warmer months, start early in the morning. Water, water, water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Lost_Horse_Mine_%E2%80%94_a_journey_into_the_gold_rush\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Lost_Horse_Mine_a_journey_into_the_gold_rush\"><\/span>12. Lost Horse Mine \u2014 a journey into the gold rush<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re into history, Lost Horse Mine is a fascinating stop. It&#8217;s the <strong>remains of a gold mine from 1890<\/strong>, reached via a <strong>6.4 km loop trail<\/strong> (moderate). The mine was one of the most productive in the area \u2014 gold and silver worth over $5 million was extracted here (much more in today&#8217;s money).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On site, you&#8217;ll see the remnants of mining equipment including a <strong>10-stamp mill<\/strong> (an ore crusher), shafts, and other structures. Everything is fenced off for safety (the shafts are deep!), but it&#8217;s still impressive. The trail itself passes through beautiful landscape with views over Queen Valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 TIP:<\/strong> This trail is less visited than Hidden Valley or Ryan Mountain, so if you&#8217;re looking for some solitude, it&#8217;s a great choice. Best in the late afternoon, when the sun bathes the mine ruins in warm light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Cottonwood_Spring_%E2%80%94_gateway_to_the_Colorado_Desert\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Cottonwood_Spring_gateway_to_the_Colorado_Desert\"><\/span>13. Cottonwood Spring \u2014 gateway to the Colorado Desert<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most visitors focus on the northern part of the park (Mojave Desert), but the southern section \u2014 the <strong>Colorado Desert<\/strong> \u2014 is an entirely different world and well worth a visit. Cottonwood Spring is an oasis near the park&#8217;s south entrance, where massive cottonwood trees and palms grow around a year-round spring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Several beautiful trails start from here, including the <strong>Mastodon Peak Trail<\/strong> (4.8 km, moderate) with views of the Eagle Mountains and Salton Sea, and the <strong>Lost Palms Oasis Trail<\/strong> (11.6 km, moderate-difficult), which takes you to the largest natural palm oasis in the park. You&#8217;ll also find the remains of another gold mine \u2014 Mastodon Mine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What you&#8217;ll notice:<\/strong> The landscape here looks completely different from the north. No Joshua trees (they only grow in the Mojave above about 900 m), but plenty of <strong>ocotillo, cholla cacti, and creosote bushes<\/strong>. It&#8217;s also warmer and drier here, making it a pleasant spot in winter when the cold wind blows up north.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Geology_Tour_Road_%E2%80%94_an_off-road_adventure\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Geology_Tour_Road_an_off_road_adventure\"><\/span>14. Geology Tour Road \u2014 an off-road adventure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-pousti-silnice.jpg\" alt=\"Car on a desert road in Joshua Tree National Park\" class=\"wp-image-159408\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-pousti-silnice.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-pousti-silnice-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-pousti-silnice-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-pousti-silnice-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-pousti-silnice-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;ve got a vehicle with decent ground clearance (ideally 4WD, though a standard SUV can manage in dry conditions), <strong>Geology Tour Road<\/strong> is a fantastic way to explore a remote part of the park. It&#8217;s a <strong>29 km unpaved road<\/strong> with 16 stops where information boards explain the geological formations around you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first 5 km are relatively flat and manageable for a normal car. Beyond that, the road deteriorates \u2014 deep sand, rocks, steeper sections. We made it in our hire SUV, but there were some nerve-wracking moments. \ud83d\ude05 The whole route takes about 2\u20133 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why bother:<\/strong> You&#8217;ll have the place practically to yourself. No crowds, no coach-filled car parks. Just you, the desert, and millions of years of geological history. Along the road, you&#8217;ll see alluvial fans, rock dykes, dry lakebeds, and remnants of ancient earthquakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Joshua_trees_%E2%80%94_get_to_know_the_iconic_tree_that_gave_the_park_its_name\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Joshua_trees_get_to_know_the_iconic_tree_that_gave_the_park_its_name\"><\/span>15. Joshua trees \u2014 get to know the iconic tree that gave the park its name<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-kvetouci-stromy.jpg\" alt=\"Blooming Joshua trees in the desert landscape\" class=\"wp-image-159409\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-kvetouci-stromy.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-kvetouci-stromy-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-kvetouci-stromy-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-kvetouci-stromy-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-kvetouci-stromy-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>And finally \u2014 you can&#8217;t visit Joshua Tree National Park without spending some time with the <strong>Joshua trees<\/strong> themselves (Yucca brevifolia). These bizarre plants (technically they&#8217;re not trees at all, but giant succulents from the asparagus family!) can grow up to 15 metres tall and live for hundreds of years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Legend has it they were named by <strong>Mormon settlers<\/strong> who saw the outstretched branches as the prophet Joshua pointing the way to the promised land. Whether you see a biblical figure or a peculiar alien, they&#8217;re endlessly fascinating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The densest &#8220;forests&#8221; of Joshua trees can be found in the <strong>Queen Valley<\/strong> area and along <strong>Park Boulevard<\/strong> between the West Entrance and Skull Rock. Simply pull over anywhere along the road where you spot a lovely cluster of trees and wander among them. In <strong>spring (March\u2013May)<\/strong>, they may be in bloom \u2014 large creamy-white flowers at the tips of their branches. Blooming depends on winter rainfall and temperatures, so it&#8217;s not guaranteed, but when it happens, it&#8217;s breathtaking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A sobering note:<\/strong> Joshua trees are threatened by climate change. Rising temperatures and drought mean young seedlings are struggling to survive. Scientists estimate that by the end of the century, most of the park&#8217;s natural populations could disappear. All the more reason to visit now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_eat_and_drink_near_Joshua_Tree\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_eat_and_drink_near_Joshua_Tree\"><\/span>Where to eat and drink near Joshua Tree<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are no restaurants or shops inside the park \u2014 you need to bring all your food and water with you. But the surrounding towns have a surprisingly good food scene, shaped by a mix of LA hipsters, desert artists, and health-conscious Californians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Joshua_Tree_Village\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Joshua_Tree_Village\"><\/span>Joshua Tree Village<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Crossroads Caf\u00e9<\/strong> \u2014 a legendary local joint where climbers, artists, and tourists all converge. Brilliant breakfasts (pancakes!) and solid burgers. The portions are massive. Prices around $12\u201318 per main (about \u20ac11\u2013\u20ac17).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>La Copine<\/strong> \u2014 if you love speciality coffee and brunch, this is your spot. A small caf\u00e9 with incredible food \u2014 avocado toast with chilli oil, pulled pork sandwich, homemade lemonades. There&#8217;s often a queue, but it&#8217;s worth the wait.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Joshua Tree Saloon<\/strong> \u2014 a classic western bar with live country music at weekends. The food is average, but the atmosphere is priceless.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Twentynine_Palms\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Twentynine_Palms\"><\/span>Twentynine Palms<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Kitchen in the Desert<\/strong> \u2014 a family-run restaurant with surprisingly creative cooking. Pasta, steaks, seasonal menus. Pleasant interior, friendly service.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Yucca_Valley\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Yucca_Valley\"><\/span>Yucca Valley<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Frontier Caf\u00e9<\/strong> \u2014 another solid breakfast spot with a proper local feel.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Piets_Camp\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Piets_Camp\"><\/span>Piet&#8217;s Camp<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pappy &amp; Harriet&#8217;s Pioneertown Palace<\/strong> \u2014 this is probably <strong>the most famous venue in the entire area<\/strong>. A honky-tonk bar in the setting of the western movie town Pioneertown (built in 1946 as a film set). The grilled meat is superb, there&#8217;s live music nearly every evening, and the atmosphere is completely unique. Expect to pay around $20\u201330 for a main course (about \u20ac19\u2013\u20ac28). It&#8217;s roughly 20 minutes from the park.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 FOOD TIP FOR THE PARK:<\/strong> If you&#8217;re camping or heading out for a full day&#8217;s hike, stop at <strong>Joshua Tree Natural Foods<\/strong> in Joshua Tree Village \u2014 they have a great selection of sandwiches, snacks, and local produce for the trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_tips_before_you_go\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_tips_before_you_go\"><\/span>Practical tips before you go<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Entry_fees_and_passes\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Entry_fees_and_passes\"><\/span>Entry fees and passes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Entry fee:<\/strong> $30 per vehicle for 7 days (about \u20ac28), $25 per motorcycle, $15 per pedestrian\/cyclist<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>America the Beautiful Pass:<\/strong> $80 (about \u20ac75) per year \u2014 valid for all national parks and federal recreation areas in the USA. If you&#8217;re planning to visit more than two parks (perhaps <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/narodni-park-yellowstone\/\">Yellowstone<\/a> as well), get the pass.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Passes can be purchased at the entrance gates or online at nps.gov\/jotr<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_pack\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_pack\"><\/span>What to pack<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Water, water, water<\/strong> \u2014 at least 4 litres per person per day. There are no drinking water sources in the park (except at the Black Rock and Cottonwood campgrounds).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sunscreen and a hat<\/strong> \u2014 the desert sun is relentless<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Layers of clothing<\/strong> \u2014 25 \u00b0C during the day, potentially 5 \u00b0C at night (even less in winter)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Torch\/headlamp<\/strong> \u2014 for stargazing and finding your way around the campsite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sturdy boots<\/strong> \u2014 proper <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/how-choose-hiking-boots\/\">hiking boots<\/a> ideally, not flip-flops<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For a full packing guide, check out our article on <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/carry-on-packing-tips\/\">how to pack a carry-on bag<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Phone_and_signal\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Phone_and_signal\"><\/span>Phone and signal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mobile signal in the park is <strong>very limited<\/strong> \u2014 most areas have none at all. Near the entrance gates and along the roads, you might catch a weak signal. Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) and information from nps.gov before you go. If you&#8217;re travelling with an eSIM, check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/holafly-esim-review-travel\/\">Holafly review<\/a> \u2014 signal works fine in the towns surrounding the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safety\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safety\"><\/span>Safety<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Heat:<\/strong> In warmer months, dehydration is a real danger. Drink regularly, even if you don&#8217;t feel thirsty.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Snakes and scorpions:<\/strong> Yes, they&#8217;re here. Watch where you step, and use your headlamp at night. They&#8217;re mostly shy and will flee.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flash floods:<\/strong> After rain, dry riverbeds can fill up quickly. Don&#8217;t camp in dry washes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Getting lost:<\/strong> Stick to marked trails. The desert is disorienting \u2014 rock formations look the same everywhere.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Flights_and_insurance\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Flights_and_insurance\"><\/span>Flights and insurance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For cheap flights from the UK to California, check comparison sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights \u2014 direct routes from London Heathrow to LAX are available with several airlines. Whatever you do, don&#8217;t skimp on travel insurance for a US trip \u2014 healthcare in America costs astronomical amounts. For longer trips, we recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/safetywing-travel-insurance-review\/\">SafetyWing<\/a>; for shorter holidays, a standard provider like World Nomads or your bank&#8217;s travel cover can work too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ_%E2%80%94_Frequently_asked_questions_about_Joshua_Tree_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ_Frequently_asked_questions_about_Joshua_Tree_National_Park\"><\/span>FAQ \u2014 Frequently asked questions about Joshua Tree National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<!-- LK_FAQ_PLACEHOLDER -->\n\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD start q=\"national kalifornie\" lang=\"en\" rendered=\"2026-05-15T06:18:51+00:00\" v=\"1\" -->\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD end -->\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I first visited Joshua Tree National Park over 15 years ago with my dad, and I&#8217;ve been itching to return ever since. In photos it looks like a desert full of rocks. In reality, it&#8217;s one of the most magical places we&#8217;ve visited in the USA \u2014 and we&#8217;ve been to quite a few. \ud83d\ude05<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":159402,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"","rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_seo_score":""},"categories":[374,320,684],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-161105","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-north-america","8":"category-travel","9":"category-united-states-of-america-usa"},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-u-silnice.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Lucie Kone\u010dn\u00e1","author_link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/author\/lucie-konecna\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161105","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=161105"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161105\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":162071,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161105\/revisions\/162071"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/159402"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=161105"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=161105"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=161105"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}