The Ultimate Travel Guide to Planning a Trip to Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a bucket-list destination for travel photographers and outdoor adventurers alike. Known for its surreal desert landscapes, iconic Joshua trees, and striking rock formations, the park offers endless opportunities for unforgettable photos and experiences. Whether you're chasing golden hour light, capturing the star-filled night sky, or exploring remote desert trails, this guide will help you plan the ultimate trip to Joshua Tree National Park.

HOW TO GET TO JOSHUA TREE

Joshua Tree is the perfect weekend getaway for both locals and visitors from out of state. Conveniently located just 2 hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, the park’s proximity makes it a popular escape from city life for Southern Californians. For out-of-state travelers, it's easy to pair a visit to Joshua Tree with stops in iconic California cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, or Palm Springs.

Flying In: The fastest way to reach Joshua Tree National Park is by flying into Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), which is less than an hour’s drive from the park entrance. Keep in mind that this is a smaller airport, and while it's incredibly convenient, flights can sometimes be more expensive compared to flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located about 2.5 hours away.

tent illuminated nexts to large rocks under the Milky Way night sky above

WHERE TO STAY IN JOSHUA TREE

When planning your trip to Joshua Tree National Park, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations to suit every travel style—from rustic campsites under the stars to stylish Airbnbs and luxury desert retreats. Whether you're a minimalist camper, a glamper, or someone seeking a five-star escape, Joshua Tree has something for everyone.

Camping in Joshua Tree National Park

Camping is one of the most immersive ways to experience the park. For free, off-the-grid camping, there’s BLM land just outside the park boundaries. However, for the best experience, it’s highly recommended to reserve a site inside the park.

Top Campgrounds in Joshua Tree:

• Hidden Valley Campground

• Jumbo Rocks Campground

• White Tank Campground

One of the most popular and photogenic sites is Jumbo Rocks, home to the iconic Penguin Rock and the Bonsai Tree.

Pro Tip:While Site #18 is the closest to Penguin Rock, it’s not ideal for privacy. Expect frequent foot traffic from photographers and hikers at all hours—so consider selecting a nearby but more secluded site.

Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals in Joshua Tree

The towns of Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, and Twentynine Palms are known for their creative and stylish Airbnbs and vacation rentals. These desert stays range from cozy artist cabins to modern architectural masterpieces, many with hot tubs, fire pits, and breathtaking desert views.

Luxury Rentals to Check Out:

• Field Trip Properties – A curated portfolio of over 45 beautifully designed homes perfect for weekend getaways, extended stays, or group retreats. I've stayed at over 10 of their properties, and each one has exceeded expectations in both design and comfort.

• Hygge Vacation Rentals – Another well-known group in the area offering fun, unique stays that blend comfort with style—perfect for travelers looking to relax and recharge.

Hotels Near Joshua Tree National Park

While Joshua Tree isn’t known for high-end hotels, there are a few unique options if you're looking for hotel-style amenities.

Top Pick:

• AutoCamp Joshua Tree by Hilton – Stay in a stylish Airstream suite with access to amenities like a pool, lounge areas, and dining options. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and comfort.

Staying in Palm Springs or Palm Desert

If you're planning a day trip to Joshua Tree and want to return to upscale accommodations, Palm Springs and Palm Desert offer excellent hotel and resort options just 45–60 minutes away from the park.

Top Desert Resorts:

• JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa

• Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa

• Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage

• La Quinta Resort & Club

These resorts provide full-service luxury with pools, spas, golf courses, and fine dining—perfect for unwinding after a day of desert exploration.

BEST TIME TO VISIT JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

When planning a trip to Joshua Tree National Park, timing is everything. The desert climate can be extreme, so choosing the right season can dramatically impact your experience—especially if you're hiking, camping, or photographing.

Spring (March – April) – Best Time to Visit

Spring is hands down the best season to visit Joshua Tree. Daytime temperatures are warm but not overwhelming, making it ideal for hiking, climbing, and even a refreshing swim post-adventure. If you're lucky, you'll catch the desert wildflower bloom, which transforms the landscape with vibrant bursts of color—an absolute dream for landscape and macro photographers.

Fall (September – November) – Great for Hiking and Camping

Fall brings cooler weather and clear desert skies, making it perfect for longer day hikes and overnight camping. With fewer crowds than spring, it’s an excellent time to explore the park's iconic rock formations and trails in peace. Photographers will also enjoy sharp light and deep shadows during this season.

Summer (June – August) – Best for Stargazing, But Avoid Day Hikes

Summer in Joshua Tree is extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F (38°C). While daytime activities like hiking and camping are not advisable, sunset and night photography are spectacular. If you're visiting in summer:

• Book a rental with a pool

• Visit the park after sunset

• Enjoy warm nights for Milky Way and astrophotography

  
  

Winter (December – February) – Chilly and Quiet

Winter is the least popular season to visit, but still has its perks. While you may enjoy some sunny, mild days, desert nights can be freezing. Expect cold mornings and the potential for snow at higher elevations during California’s winter rainy season. If you're visiting in winter, come prepared with layers and check the weather forecast regularly.

BEST HIKES IN JOSHUA TREE: 

Hidden Valley Trail – Easy | 1-Mile Loop

Hidden Valley Trail is one of the most popular and accessible hikes in Joshua Tree National Park, making it perfect for beginners, families, and photographers alike. This easy 1-mile loop winds through a scenic valley enclosed by towering rock formations, offering endless opportunities to climb, explore, and shoot unique desert landscapes.

While it's tempting to wander off and scramble up the rocks, be cautious—the terrain can be disorienting, and it's easy to lose your bearings. Always keep the trail in sight and avoid going too far off-path.

Hidden Valley is also a great spot to take a break and enjoy a meal. The area has several picnic tables and shaded areas, making it ideal for a mid-day rest during your adventures in the park.

Barker Dam Nature Trail – Easy | 2-Mile Out-and-Back

Barker Dam Nature Trail is a scenic and easy 2-mile out-and-back hike that combines desert beauty with unexpected water features. One of the park’s few trails with historical and ecological significance, it leads you to a small man-made reservoir originally built by early cattle ranchers.

Depending on the season and recent rainfall, you might find a serene desert oasis, complete with reflections and desert wildlife—making it an excellent photo opportunity for landscape and nature photographers.

Along the trail, you'll also spot ancient petroglyphs, boulder formations, and the chance to see bighorn sheep or birdsnear the water. It's a must-do for those wanting to capture the rare contrast of water in the arid landscape of Joshua Tree.

Key’s View – Vista Point | No Hike Required

Key’s View is one of the most breathtaking and easily accessible viewpoints in Joshua Tree National Park. Perched at an elevation of over 5,000 feet, this overlook offers sweeping panoramic views of Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault, the Salton Sea.

This is hands down the best spot in the park for sunset photography. The golden light washes over the desert landscape, casting dramatic shadows and warm hues that make for unforgettable images.

Pro Tip: Arrive at least 30–45 minutes before golden hour to secure a parking spot, especially on weekends or holidays. Bring a tripod and telephoto lens to make the most of the expansive vistas.

Arch Rock Trail – Easy | 1-Mile Lollipop Loop

The Arch Rock Trail is a short and easy 1-mile lollipop loop located near the White Tank Campground, known for its otherworldly rock formations and incredible astrophotography opportunities. The trail leads you to two of Joshua Tree’s most iconic natural features: the famous Arch Rock and the lesser-known but equally photogenic Heart Rock.

This area is especially popular among photographers for sunset-to-night transitions, making it one of the top spots in the park to capture the Milky Way or star trails framed by the unique desert landscape.

Pro Tip:Arrive before sunset to scout the area in daylight, as the terrain can be tricky to navigate in the dark. Bring a headlamp, tripod, and wide-angle lens if you're planning a night shoot. This is also a great spot to enjoy the sunset before the stars come out.

Cholla Cactus Garden – Vista Point | No Hike Required

The Cholla Cactus Garden is one of the most unique and photogenic spots in Joshua Tree National Park. Located just off the main road with convenient parking, this area allows you to wander through dense clusters of “jumping” cholla cacti, making it a favorite for close-up photography and dramatic landscape shots.

Important Tip: These cacti are beautiful but dangerous up close—the spines detach easily and can be painful, so watch your step and keep a safe distance, especially if you're shooting low angles or using a tripod.

Pro Tip:This location is spectacular at sunrise and sunset, when the soft desert light causes the golden cholla spines to glow with a magical, almost ethereal quality. Arrive early to catch the best light and avoid midday shadows.

Hall of Horrors Trail – Easy | 1-Mile Loop

The Hall of Horrors Trail is an easy 1-mile loop that takes you through a fascinating section of Joshua Tree’s rocky terrain. The trail is mostly flat, with the biggest challenge being finding the hidden slot canyon nestled within the rocks. Once you’ve located it, you’ll be rewarded with an incredibly unique and photogenic environment.

Pro Tip:To capture the best lighting for photos, visit before or after midday. This allows the sunlight to stream into the narrow canyon, creating dramatic shadows and highlights, without the harsh overhead sun ruining the view. The Hall of Horrors is also a prime location for astrophotography, with clear views of the night sky directly overhead.

Skull Rock – Viewpoint | No Hike Required

Skull Rock is one of the most recognizable and easily accessible landmarks in Joshua Tree National Park. Located just off the main road, this unique rock formation resembles a human skull, making it a popular spot for quick photo ops. Due to its proximity to the road, it's often crowded with visitors and cars.

While Skull Rock is certainly interesting to see, it can feel a bit overrated compared to the more secluded, dramatic formations found deeper in the park. That said, it’s a convenient stop on the way to the Jumbo Rocks Campground area, making it easy to check out without leaving the main road.

PERFECT ONE DAY ITINERARY FOR JOSHUA TREE

*Arrive to the park before 9AM to beat crowds at the entrance and get parking spots

Morning / Sunrise: Hidden Valley Trail - morning hike + lunch

Afternoon: Baker Damn - afternoon hike

Afternoon: Chola Cactus Garden - walk around and enjoy the view

Sunset: Key’s View - golden hour/ sunset

**Stop along the way before you exit the park for star gazing as you will get some light pollution from Key's View

STARGAZING / ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY IN JOSHUA TREE:

Joshua Tree National Park is a great destination for a single-day trip, but to truly experience its magic, stay a little while after sunset—even if you’re not camping overnight. Desert sunsets here are some of the most spectacular you'll ever witness, with the sky lighting up in vibrant hues just before the stars emerge.

After sunset, the dark desert sky reveals hundreds of stars visible to the naked eye. For the best stargazing experience, plan your visit around a new moon when the sky is at its darkest. Recently, Joshua Tree earned the Dark Sky Designation, making it one of the best spots in Southern California for stargazing, especially considering the light pollution in nearby cities like Los Angeles and San Diego.

TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO JOSHUA TREE: 

• Limited Cell Service: Like most national parks, cell service in Joshua Tree is very limited or nonexistent. Download offline maps and ensure you have your navigation ready before entering the park, as GPS signals can be unreliable once you're in the more remote areas.

• Fuel Up Before Entering: There are gas stations right before the park entrance, so make sure to fill up before heading in. There’s no need to bring extra gas, as there are no gas stations within the park.

  
  

• Pack Your Food and Drinks: Joshua Tree doesn't have food vendors or shops inside the park, so be sure to pack your own meals and drinks. However, there are restaurants and supermarkets near the park entrances where you can grab food for the day before heading into the wilderness.

  
  

• Don’t Forget Your Tripod: If you're planning to capture the night sky (and you definitely should), make sure to bring a tripod for sharp, clear long-exposure shots of stars, the Milky Way, and other celestial wonders.