Camping at Joshua Tree

Camping at Joshua Tree

Unique desert landscape with iconic Joshua trees, boulder formations, and some of the best stargazing in America.

12+ Campgrounds4.4★ AverageBest: Year-round (varies by season)

Featured Campgrounds

Top-rated campgrounds inside Joshua Tree National Park

1
Sheep Pass Group
Star
4.6
(283)
Sheep Pass Group
Joshua Tree National Park
Twentynine Palms, CA

Sheep Pass Group campground provides a high-quality group camping experience with a 4.66 rating, ideal for families or friends wanting to camp together in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park.

Tents
2
Indian Cove Group
Star
4.5
(192)
Indian Cove Group
Joshua Tree National Park
Twentynine Palms, CA

Indian Cove Group offers a quality group camping experience with a 4.56 rating and substantial reviews, providing a more secluded camping option in the northern section of the park.

Tents
3
Jumbo Rocks Campground
Star
4.5
(1222)
Jumbo Rocks Campground
Joshua Tree National Park
Twentynine Palms, CA

Jumbo Rocks Campground is one of Joshua Tree's most popular destinations with over 1,200 reviews and excellent access to the park's famous boulder formations and hiking opportunities.

Tents
RVs


Campground Locations

Showing top 9 campgrounds near Joshua Tree National Park

#
Inside Joshua Tree National Park
1
Sheep Pass Group
2
Indian Cove Group
3
Jumbo Rocks Campground
4
Cottonwood Group
5
Indian Cove Campground
6
Ryan Campground
7
Cottonwood Campground (Ca)
8
Black Rock Campground
9
Black Rock Equestrian Campground

About This Destination

Joshua Tree camping offers an unforgettable desert experience beneath towering monzogranite boulders and iconic Joshua trees under some of California's darkest skies. This high-desert wonderland where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet provides campers with direct access to world-class rock climbing, scenic hiking trails, and exceptional stargazing opportunities.

Best Time

The best time for Joshua Tree camping is during spring (March-April) and fall (October-November) when daytime temperatures range from 60-80°F with cool, comfortable nights. Spring brings potential wildflower blooms and ideal hiking conditions, though this is also the busiest season requiring advance reservations.

Destination Highlights

  • 12+ campgrounds within 30 miles
  • Located in California
  • Options for every camping style

Plan Your Trips

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Book Joshua Tree campgrounds well in advance, especially for spring weekends when reservations fill months ahead.
  • 2Bring at least one gallon of water per person per day, as water sources are extremely limited in the park.
  • 3Pack layers for dramatic temperature swings between day and night, and don't forget warm sleeping gear even during mild weather.
  • 4Arrive early at popular trailheads to secure parking, and start hikes before 9 AM during warmer months.
9 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Camping Near Joshua Tree National Park

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Camping Near Joshua Tree National Park FAQ

There are 12+ campgrounds within 30 miles of Joshua Tree National Park, California. 9 accept online reservations.

Camping fees near Joshua Tree National Park range from $30 to $55/night depending on the campground, site type, and season. RV sites with hookups tend to cost more than tent-only sites.

Most campgrounds inside Joshua Tree National Park require advance reservations, especially during peak season (May–September). Book early — popular sites fill months in advance. Set up Outdoorithm alerts to catch cancellations.

Yes, Joshua Tree National Park has campgrounds within park boundaries. These tend to book quickly and fill months in advance. If campgrounds inside the park are full, there are options just outside the park entrance within a short drive.

Based on camper reviews, the top-rated campgrounds near Joshua Tree National Park include Sheep Pass Group, Jumbo Rocks Campground, Indian Cove Group. These campgrounds consistently receive high ratings for their facilities, location, and overall camping experience.

9 of the 9 campgrounds near Joshua Tree National Park are pet-friendly. Dogs must typically be on a leash (6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Note: trails and backcountry areas inside the park may have additional pet restrictions. Check individual campground policies for breed or size restrictions.

Availability Alerts

Joshua Tree National Park Campgrounds Book Fast

The best campgrounds near Joshua Tree National Park book up quickly, especially during peak season. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.

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Sheep Pass Group
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