National Park · CA

Joshua Tree National Park

Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together in Joshua Tree National Park. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land sculpted by strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California. Come explore for yourself!

nps.gov ↗

Photos

The sky turns hues of pink and purple over a field of Joshua trees.
Quail Springs area at sunset
people climbing on boulders are silhouetted against a colorful sunset sky
Jumbo Rocks Campground is a fun place to explore the park's bouldered landscape.
a little girl smiles while wearing a Jr. Ranger hat and badge
Kids of all ages can take part in Joshua Tree National Park's Junior Ranger program.
hiker looks over Hidden Valley
Scrambling to the top of boulders in Joshua Tree can get you a great view.
an historic wood house seen through the missing windshield of an old, rusty vehicle
The historic Keys Ranch can be visited only on a ranger-guided tour.
Joshua trees grow on a flat plain with boulder outcrops and mountains in the distance
Take in views of the park's iconic Joshua trees and rock outcrops in Lost Horse Valley.
a fiery sky behind the silhouette of a Joshua tree
The wide-open desert of Joshua Tree National Park makes for stunning sunsets.
night scene showing stars of the Milky Way over a sign saying "Entering Joshua Tree National Park"
Enjoy some of the darkest night skies in Southern California.

Activities

  • Auto and ATV
  • Scenic Driving
  • Astronomy
  • Stargazing
  • Biking
  • Camping
  • Backcountry Camping
  • Car or Front Country Camping
  • Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
  • Group Camping
  • Climbing
  • Rock Climbing
  • Food
  • Picnicking
  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking
  • Self-Guided Tours - Auto
  • Hiking
  • Backcountry Hiking
  • Front-Country Hiking
  • Horse Trekking
  • Horse Camping (see also camping)
  • Horseback Riding
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Birdwatching
  • Museum Exhibits
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store