White Tank Campground

4.55

211 reviews

White Tank Campground, Pinto Basin Road, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

Featured in:Camping Near Joshua Tree National Park Desert Camping

Quick Facts

3,832 ft

Price

$12.5 - $25/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Open season runs fro...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Joshua Tree National Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

3,832 ft

Price

$12.5 - $25/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Open season runs fro...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Joshua Tree National Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

White Tank Campground

$12.50 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The nightly fee is $25 per campsite, with a discount of $12.50 for Senior/Access Pass holders. Payments must be made at an entrance station within...

Standard Site Fee$25.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

760-367-5554jotr_info@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.55

Top-Rated

Based on 211 reviews

192 Google reviews

Most mentioned

clean

Some mention

noise

"White Tank Campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, proximity to trails like Arch Rock, and its excellent stargazing conditions. However, common complaints include the lack of water and cell service, and issues with foot traffic."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

White Tank Campground, Pinto Basin Road, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

White Tank Campground

White Tank Campground, Pinto Basin Road, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

Driving directionsWhite Tank Campground is located off Pinto Basin Road in the northern end of Joshua Tree National Park. It is approximately 11 miles from Twentynine Palms and 28 miles from the Cottonwood Visitor Center. Campers are advised not to rely solely on Google Maps for navigation, as it may direct them away from the park itself.

The campground is accessible via Pinto Basin Road, which is unpaved and can be uneven. There are no seasonal closures explicitly mentioned, but the campground itself is closed from June 1 to September 1 due to summer conditions.

Nearby places

Twentynine Palms (11 miles, approximate travel time 20 minutes), Cottonwood Visitor Center (28 miles, approximately 45 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Nearest supplies, including groceries, camping essentials, and fuel, are available in Twentynine Palms, 11 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at White Tank Campground

The desert's moods shift dramatically with the seasons, creating distinct camping experiences throughout the year. Spring and fall paint the perfect picture for outdoor adventures, with golden days reaching a comfortable 85°F before dropping to crisp 50°F nights ideal for campfire conversations. Winter transforms the landscape into a cooler retreat where 60°F afternoons give way to freezing starlit nights—pack those extra layers! Summer unleashes the desert's fierce side, with mercury soaring past 100°F during the day before settling into balmy 75°F evenings. With humidity rarely exceeding 25%, the air remains remarkably clear year-round, though the desert's temperament can shift suddenly—wise campers always check the forecast before venturing into this dynamic landscape.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

Not recommended

Campground closed June 1–Sept 1 due to extreme summer heat (>100°F).

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall listed as peak season (Oct–May) with comfortable temps and excellent hiking/stargazing.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Spring highlighted as one of the best times: comfortable days and scenic wildflower/landscape viewing.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Open in winter; cooler nights but trails and stargazing remain attractive for visitors.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: October to May. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season runs from September 2 to May 31. The campground is closed from June 1 to September 1 due to summer conditions.
Current Alerts: The campground is closed from June 1 to September 1 due to summer conditions.

About White Tank Campground

Discover your desert sanctuary at White Tank Campground, where 15 intimate campsites are tucked among towering granite boulders that have stood sentinel for millennia. This hidden gem in Joshua Tree National Park offers adventurers a chance to disconnect from the digital world—with no running water and only vault toilets, you'll find yourself immersed in the raw beauty of the high desert. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under some of the darkest, most star-studded skies in Southern California. While RVs and trailers up to 25 feet can navigate into this rocky wonderland, the campground's compact nature and dramatic boulder formations create a sense of seclusion that larger parks simply can't match.

White Tank Campground is a first-come, first-served facility that caters to tent campers and smaller RVs/trailers. The campground is known for its scenic desert setting and proximity to iconic rock formations.

Historical SignificanceWhile White Tank Campground itself whispers no specific tales of the past, it serves as your gateway to the greater story of Joshua Tree National Park—a landscape that has captivated human imagination for thousands of years. From ancient indigenous peoples who found sustenance and spiritual significance in these lands to the miners, ranchers, and homesteaders who later sought fortune in its rugged terrain, this protected wilderness continues to inspire all who venture into its embrace. Today, the campground stands as a testament to conservation efforts that preserve this unique ecosystem for future generations to explore and cherish.

Weather and SeasonsThe desert's moods shift dramatically with the seasons, creating distinct camping experiences throughout the year. Spring and fall paint the perfect picture for outdoor adventures, with golden days reaching a comfortable 85°F before dropping to crisp 50°F nights ideal for campfire conversations. Winter transforms the landscape into a cooler retreat where 60°F afternoons give way to freezing starlit nights—pack those extra layers! Summer unleashes the desert's fierce side, with mercury soaring past 100°F during the day before settling into balmy 75°F evenings. With humidity rarely exceeding 25%, the air remains remarkably clear year-round, though the desert's temperament can shift suddenly—wise campers always check the forecast before venturing into this dynamic landscape.

ElevationPerched within Joshua Tree's characteristic high desert terrain, White Tank Campground occupies that magical elevation where two distinct desert ecosystems converge. Here, the Colorado Desert meets the higher Mojave Desert, creating a unique biological crossroads where diverse plant and animal communities thrive. This elevated position not only provides respite from the lower desert's most extreme temperatures but also offers expansive views across the park's seemingly endless sea of Joshua trees and granite monoliths.

Natural Features and SceneryNature has sculpted an outdoor gallery around White Tank Campground, where massive granite boulders create natural amphitheaters and secret alcoves waiting to be explored. The iconic Joshua trees stand like Dr. Seuss characters against a backdrop of golden stone, their twisted arms reaching toward endless blue skies. Just a short scramble from camp, discover the geological wonders of Arch Rock—a natural window carved by eons of wind and weather—or seek out the whimsical Heart Rock formation. As dawn breaks, watch the granite faces blush pink and orange, and when twilight falls, witness the desert's grand finale as the setting sun transforms the landscape into a canvas of purple shadows and golden highlights.

Geological RegionWhite Tank Campground sits at the heart of one of Earth's most fascinating geological showcases. These colossal granite formations began their journey over 100 million years ago, born from molten rock deep beneath the surface. Through countless millennia of uplift, erosion, and weathering, nature has carved and stacked these monoliths into the playground of stone you see today. The park's signature Joshua trees—actually members of the agave family—add their prehistoric charm to this ancient landscape. Together with the dynamic formations like Arch Rock, these elements create a geological wonderland that tells the story of our planet's incredible forces at work.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

12:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Camping is limited to 30 days per year, with a maximum of 14 nights allowed between October and May.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Amaximum of six people per campsite is allowed.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground includes 15 sites scattered among granite boulders and rock formations, with minimal shade and varied sizes. Vault toilets are available.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available. Occupation is first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Arriving early in the day is recommended due to high demand.

Cancellation PolicyReservations are not applicable as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, payment must be submitted within one hour of site selection.

AccessibilityThere are no ADA-accessible campsites at White Tank. Roads are unpaved and terrain can be uneven, though most campsites are relatively flat.

Site SizeCampsites are varied in size, with some being described as 'huge,' such as Site #12, which can accommodate up to three tents.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site; while some are secluded and shielded by boulders, others are close to the road and experience foot traffic from nearby trails.

Total Campsites15 campsites

Recommended SitesCampers seeking privacy should opt for sites farther from the road or near large boulders to shield against noise and foot traffic. Sites near the Arch Rock Trail may experience heavier foot traffic.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

White Tank Campground offers unique recreational opportunities due to its location among immense granite boulders. Campers enjoy stargazing, hiking, and exploring nearby rock formations. The dark skies make it ideal for night photography, and the campground is near popular attractions like Arch Rock and Heart Rock.

HikingHiking trails, including the Arch Rock Trail, are accessible directly from the campground. Visitors have praised these trails for their scenic beauty and boulder formations, with one reviewer stating, 'My favorite hike also starts from here, the Arch Rock Trail.' Some trails are short and family-friendly, such as the one leading to Arch Rock, which is less than 0.2 miles away.

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 viewingVisitors often spot desert wildlife and enjoy the unique flora and fauna of the Joshua Tree ecosystem.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include high temperatures, limited water availability, and wildlife interactions. Campers are advised to bring adequate water and secure all food items properly.

Active AlertsThe campground is closed from June 1 to September 1 due to summer conditions.

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

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed only in designated fire rings or grills. Campers must bring their own firewood and water for extinguishing fires. Gathering vegetation is prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned, though several reviews note disturbances due to noise and foot traffic.

Emergency ServicesThe nearest emergency services can be accessed in Twentynine Palms, approximately 11 miles away, which houses hospitals and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available year-round, ensuring proper disposal of waste.

Water FeaturesNo water features are nearby, though Arch Rock and Heart Rock are notable geological attractions.

Camp HostNo campground hosts are mentioned as being available on-site.

Weather at White Tank Campground

Reviews

4.6

211 reviews

Top-Rated

White Tank Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

White Tank Campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, proximity to trails like Arch Rock, and its excellent stargazing conditions. However, common complaints include the lack of water and cell service, and issues with foot traffic.

Review Summaries

Based on 211 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the campground's setting among boulders, the clean vault toilets, and the ease of accessing nearby trails. One user noted, 'Beautifully placed among the giant boulders, this campground...

Based on 211 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of privacy at certain sites, foot traffic from hikers, and the absence of potable water. One reviewer remarked, 'Kids showing up all night long. We parked at the end of...

Based on 211 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving early (8-9 AM) to secure a site, bringing ample water, and being mindful of noise levels due to site proximity.

Based on 211 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is closed during the summer (June 1 - September 1) due to high temperatures exceeding 100°F. Spring and fall are considered the best times to visit, with comfortable temperatures and...

Based on 211 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'My favorite campground in the park. Lots of space between spots, centrally located, very clean, great restrooms, and smaller.' 2. 'If the sign says the campground is FULL, believe it! Don't drive...

Based on 211 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #12 is described as 'huge' and capable of accommodating three tents. Site #15 experiences significant foot traffic due to its proximity to a trail.

Based on 211 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground lacks ADA-compliant features. Roads are unpaved, and the terrain is uneven, making it less accessible for individuals with mobility issues.

Based on 211 reviews