Sheep Pass Group

4.66

283 reviews

74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

Stargazing

Featured in:Joshua Tree#1 Camping Near Joshua Tree National Park#2 Southern California

Quick Facts

4,500 ft

Price

$55/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

4,500 ft

Price

$55/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Sheep Pass Group

$55.00 - $55.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The fee for group tent-only sites is $55 per night, applicable throughout the peak season.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$55.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

760-367-5554cynthia_lasala@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.66

Top-Rated

Based on 283 reviews

93 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsclean

"Overall, Sheep Pass Group Campground is highly regarded for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and spacious group sites. However, some visitors have raised concerns about noise levels due to lack of ranger oversight."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

Sheep Pass Group

74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA

Driving directionsTake Interstate 10 to Route 62. From the town of Joshua Tree turn south on Park Blvd. and continue through the West Entrance. The campground is 13 miles from the entrance station and the city of Twentynine Palms.

The campground is accessible by paved roads from Interstate 10 and Route 62. Seasonal road conditions do not affect access. The entrance is well-marked and travel is straightforward.

Nearby places

Joshua Tree (approximately 8 miles, 15-minute drive), Twentynine Palms (13 miles, 20-minute drive), Palm Springs (approximately 50 miles, 1-hour drive).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Twentynine Palms, 13 miles away. Potable water is available at the Oasis Visitor Center or West Entrance, 13 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Sheep Pass Group

The camping season at Sheep Pass truly shines from October through May, when daytime temperatures hover between a comfortable 70-90°F, perfect for scrambling over sun-warmed rocks and exploring desert trails. As evening approaches, temperatures dip to a crisp 40-60°F, creating ideal conditions for campfire conversations and stargazing. Winter months are particularly magical, offering mild days that invite exploration without the harsh heat that dominates summer. Those brave enough to visit during summer will find the desert transformed into a shimmering landscape where temperatures soar, making early morning and evening adventures the wisest choice for those seeking to experience the park's raw beauty.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.0 / 5

Extreme heat reduces visitation and comfort in summer months.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 5% in CA

October–May is prime season; fall offers ideal temps and high visitation.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 7% in CA

Spring falls in the prime Oct–May window with comfortable temps and great hiking/climbing.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Top 12% in CA

Good daytime temps Oct–May; winter winds reported and occasional snow events occur.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round. Reservations are available on a rolling 6-month basis.
Current Alerts: Fire bans in place annually from June 15 to October 1. Charcoal and wood-burning fires are prohibited during these months.

About Sheep Pass Group

Nestled in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, Sheep Pass Group Campground offers an intimate desert camping experience designed for groups seeking adventure together. Six tent-only sites are strategically positioned among towering rock formations and the park's namesake Joshua trees, creating natural gathering spaces for friends and families. As darkness falls, these dramatic boulder gardens transform into natural amphitheaters under star-filled skies. The campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring nearby hiking trails and world-renowned climbing routes, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the camaraderie of group camping in one of America's most distinctive desert landscapes.

Sheep Pass Group Campground is exclusively for group tent camping and prohibits RVs and trailers. It offers six large tent-only sites suited for group bookings.

Weather and SeasonsThe camping season at Sheep Pass truly shines from October through May, when daytime temperatures hover between a comfortable 70-90°F, perfect for scrambling over sun-warmed rocks and exploring desert trails. As evening approaches, temperatures dip to a crisp 40-60°F, creating ideal conditions for campfire conversations and stargazing. Winter months are particularly magical, offering mild days that invite exploration without the harsh heat that dominates summer. Those brave enough to visit during summer will find the desert transformed into a shimmering landscape where temperatures soar, making early morning and evening adventures the wisest choice for those seeking to experience the park's raw beauty.

ElevationPerched at 4,500 feet above sea level, Sheep Pass enjoys a privileged position in the high desert, where the air is noticeably cooler and crisper than the lower elevations. This elevated vantage point offers more than just temperature relief – it provides sweeping views across the desert floor and creates a microclimate where both Mojave and Colorado Desert ecosystems converge, offering campers a unique perspective on the park's diverse landscapes.

Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape at Sheep Pass reads like a desert fairy tale, where ancient Joshua trees stand as sentinels among volcanic rock formations that seem to defy gravity. These massive boulders, sculpted by millions of years of wind and weather, create a natural playground that changes character with the light. Desert wildlife thrives here – watch for quick-footed lizards darting between rocks, listen for the distant call of coyotes at dusk, and observe ravens riding thermals above the boulder piles. When seasonal rains bless the desert, the landscape erupts in unexpected color as wildflowers carpet the sandy washes. But perhaps the most breathtaking moments come at sunrise and sunset, when the rocks glow in shades of gold, pink, and purple, transforming the campground into a photographer's paradise.

Geological RegionSet within the mystical Mojave Desert, Sheep Pass showcases the raw geological drama that makes Joshua Tree legendary. The campground sits among massive rock formations born from ancient volcanic activity, their surfaces weathered into fantastical shapes that spark imagination and invite exploration. This is classic Mojave terrain, where the iconic Joshua trees – those twisted, Dr. Seuss-like sentinels – dot the landscape alongside chollas, barrel cacti, and resilient desert shrubs. The desert ecosystem pulses with life adapted to extremes, from rattlesnakes that emerge in the evening cool to kit foxes padding silently through camp. Here, the Mojave reveals its dual nature: harsh yet hauntingly beautiful, sparse yet surprisingly alive.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in is allowed starting at noon.

Check-out

Check-out time is noon.

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Group camping requirements include at least 7 campers per site.

Groups

Group sites can accommodate larger gatherings, with space for multiple tents. There is a minimum camper requirement per site. Specific reviews mention groups of up to 15 tents fitting comfortably.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into six group sites. Each site is well-spaced with picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or via the call center at 888-448-1474.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not supported; reservations are required before arriving at the site.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are permitted with a $10 fee. Late cancellations within 14 days of arrival incur both the $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's use fee. No-show fees are assessed at $20, plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee.

AccessibilityThe campground itself does not provide specific accessibility features, and the uneven terrain with boulders may present challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

Site SizeThe sites are described as spacious, with groups of 12-15 tents commonly accommodated.

PrivacySites are well-spaced and provide a reasonable level of privacy, though noise from neighboring groups can occasionally be an issue.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near hillsides (e.g., Sites 1, 2, or 3) are suggested to avoid stronger winds. "If we camped here again, we would try for one of the sites closer to the hillside.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Sheep Pass Group Campground can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing. The campground is centrally located for easy access to popular trails and rock formations.

HikingSheep Pass is close to popular hiking trails like the Ryan Mountain Trail and Hall of Horrors. Trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic vistas.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

Wildlife viewingCampers may encounter desert wildlife, including lizards, rattlesnakes, and coyotes. Bobcats and mountain lions are less commonly seen.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include rattlesnakes, scorpions, and high winds. Visitors are advised to prepare for cold nights and high temperatures during the day.

Active AlertsFire bans in place annually from June 15 to October 1. Charcoal and wood-burning fires are prohibited during these months.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFire bans restrict charcoal and wood-burning fires from June 15 to October 1 annually. Gas or propane stoves are permitted.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available in Twentynine Palms, approximately 13 miles away. The nearest hospital is Hi-Desert Medical Center, and ranger stations are located within Joshua Tree National Park.

Trash & RecyclingTrash bins are available at the sites, and campers are encouraged to use them to maintain the cleanliness of the area.

Water FeaturesNo natural water features nearby. Potable water is available 13 miles away at the Oasis Visitor Center.

Camp HostNo dedicated campground hosts are mentioned. Minimal ranger oversight noted in reviews, especially during evenings.

Weather at Sheep Pass Group

Reviews

4.7

283 reviews

Top-Rated

Sheep Pass Group is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Sheep Pass Group Campground is highly regarded for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and spacious group sites. However, some visitors have raised concerns about noise levels due to lack of ranger oversight.

Review Summaries

Based on 283 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, clean facilities, and ample space for group camping. Stargazing is often cited as a highlight due to low light pollution.

Based on 283 reviews

Common Concerns

Key complaints include noise from neighboring campsites, occasional overcrowding, and the lack of potable water. Some visitors also noted issues with unauthorized individuals intruding on their sites.

Based on 283 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing sufficient water, warm clothing for chilly nights, and shade structures for hot daytime temperatures. Early booking is advised due to high demand.

Based on 283 reviews

Seasonal Insights

High visitation occurs from October to May due to favorable temperatures. Summer months see fewer visitors because of extreme heat. Winds are reported to be strong in winter.

Based on 283 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The stars are amazing! Facilities are close by and the site was very clean." - Chris Cumpian. "Great campground for family or a large group. We managed to fit about 15 tents plus have plenty of room...

Based on 283 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Group site #1 is highlighted as spacious and ideal for avoiding crowds. Site #3 is praised for its proximity to climbing spots but noted for occasional foot traffic through the site.

Based on 283 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews mention accessibility features or issues.

Based on 283 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Reviewers caution against leaving pets unattended and emphasize the importance of proper pet management to avoid disturbances.

Based on 283 reviews

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