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The sky turns hues of pink and purple over a field of Joshua trees.
Destinations › … › United States › California

Joshua Tree National Park

warningCaution3 warnings calendar_monthMar–Apr, Oct–Novbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$15entry
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Caution Inaccurate Third-Party Apps

Some third-party hiking apps are providing inaccurate trail and safety information to users. Please use the official NPS app for accurate information. Details open_in_new

Caution Oasis of Mara Trail Partial Closure

Due to a heavy flooding event, the Oasis of Mara Trail is closed past the Oasis.

Information Annual Summer Closures and Restrictions in Effect

The 49 Palms trail along with some campgrounds, facilities, and areas have adjusted availability during the summer. For the full list of changes, please visit our Summer Closures page. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Joshua Tree National Park is located in California and is known for its unique Joshua trees, which are actually a type of yucca plant. The park features a mix of desert landscapes, rock formations, and diverse wildlife, attracting visitors for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing. The park's history dates back to its designation as a National Monument in 1936, later becoming a National Park in 1994.

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Visitors often come to experience the park's dark skies, ideal for astrophotography and stargazing. The east side of the park is particularly favored for its minimal light pollution. However, the remote location means planning ahead is essential for a smooth visit.

In pictures

people climbing on boulders are silhouetted against a colorful sunset sky
people climbing on boulders are silhouetted against a colorful sunset sky

Things to do

Stargazing at Joshua Tree
Winter/Spring

Enjoy Joshua Tree National Park's amazing night sky.
Hike Cholla Cactus Garden
15-30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

An easy quarter mile hike through a cholla patch along Pinto Basin Road.
Hike Skull Rock
1-2 Hours · Winter/Spring

A relatively flat, 1.7-mile loop trail. Hike through the large, granite boulder fields around the Jumbo Rocks...
Attend a Ranger Stroll
30-45 Minutes

Join a ranger on an educational stroll.
Birding at Joshua Tree
Winter/Spring

Joshua Tree National Park offers a wide range of birds for birders to discover.
Hike Boy Scout Trail
1-10 Hours · Winter/Spring

Explore the Wonderland of Rocks on the Boy Scout Trail.
Hike Fortynine Palms Oasis
2-3 Hours · Winter/Spring

A difficult three mile hike to a desert oasis.
Drive Park Boulevard
1-10 Hours · Winter/Spring

A scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park.
Hike Barker Dam Trail
30-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Enjoy an easy 1.1 mile hike on the Barker Dam Nature Trail.
Attend an Evening Ranger Program
45 Minutes

Attend an evening program at Joshua Tree National Park.
Visit the Universal Threads Exhibit
15-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Visit the Universal Threads Exhibit and learn about the intertwining relationships between plants, animals, ea...
Horseback Riding in Joshua Tree National Park
1-10 Hours · Winter/Spring

Horseback riding designated trails in Joshua Tree National Park.

Practical

At a glance

Established
1994
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Price
Per Person $15, Motorcycle $25, Private Vehicle $30
Accessibility
Some areas are wheelchair accessible
Address
74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277-3597
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
7603675500
Price
~$15
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect long lines during weekends and holidays.
Entry fees are required, so bring cash or a credit card.
Dress in layers; temperatures can vary significantly between day and night.
Water is limited; carry enough for your visit.

Photo: NPS / Emily Hassell