Joshua Tree NP
Joshua Tree National Park sits at the junction of the Mojave and Colorado deserts, offering stark beauty, iconic Joshua trees, and surreal granite formations.
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Joshua Tree NP
Joshua Tree National Park sits at the crossroads of the Mojave and Colorado deserts, where iconic Joshua trees rise among colossal granite boulders. The park protects about 795,156 gross acres (3,218 km2), weaving together two distinct desert ecosystems and a night-sky heritage that draws stargazers from around the world. Expect dramatic rock scrambling, long hikes, and chances to glimpse Yucca brevifolia (Joshua tree) and other desert specialists. The landscape shifts with light—from sunrise gold over the boulders to clear, star-filled skies by night—making it a paradise for photography and exploration. From easy nature trails to challenging climbs, there’s something for every pace, with campgrounds and backcountry options to fit your style.
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | California |
| Subregion | Southern California |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | San BernardinoRiverside |
| City | Joshua Tree National Park |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 33.8667 |
| Longitude | -115.901 |
| Maps |
5:35 PM LOCAL TIME
Where to Stay
Joshua Tree National Park is a stark, star-filled desert gateway where two ecosystems meet and surreal granite forms rise above the sand.
Joshua Tree Town sits just outside the park's West Entrance, offering budget-friendly lodging, casual dining, and quirky art galleries. From here, it's a short drive to key trailheads and the park's dramatic boulder fields, with stargazing as an added bonus after sunset. Since there is no lodging inside the park, this town is a practical base for budget travelers and sunrise chasers.
Yucca Valley is the practical midrange hub for Joshua Tree—home to reliable motels and inns that balance comfort with desert access. It offers groceries and services, plus dining options, while staying within a reasonable drive to the park’s gate. It’s a well‑rounded base for visitors who want steady amenities and easy park access.
Twentynine Palms sits at the park's North Entrance and has a diverse lineup of inns, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals. It's a craftier desert base with new builds like Reset Hotel and historic properties such as 29 Palms Inn, all offering easy access to Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave Desert. The town also hosts a range of dining and cultural spots, with options spanning budget to midrange.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Thu Nov 20, 2025, 7:39 PM