JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

74485 NATIONAL PARK DRIVE

TWENTYNINE PALMS, CA 92277

A planning guide for visitors to 

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree Guide National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Joshua Tree National Park

Hello, and welcome to

Joshua Tree National Park!

There is no place quite like Joshua Tree 

National Park. Each year, thousands 

of visitors from around the globe 

experience the park and enjoy the 

extreme beauty of one of the most 

unique places on the globe. Please 

take time today to see the diversity of 

life and scenery at one of America’s 

crown jewel parks. For 78 years, 

the National Park Service has been 

honored to protect this immense 

preserve of the Mojave and Colorado 

Deserts for your enjoyment. 

As you take in the park, carry on 

this tradition and help preserve it for 

another generation. Honor the wildlife 

and plants by leaving them in place 

and by keeping your vehicle on roads. 

This is a challenging place so protect 

yourself and others by having sufficient 

food and water in your vehicle should 

you run into problems. If you have any 

questions or concerns, reach out to 

our staff. We are thrilled to have you 

here and more than happy to help you 

discover your park. 

It is my sincere hope that you have 

a safe, enjoyable, and memorable 

time during your visit to Joshua Tree 

National Park.

David Smith, Superintendent

Joshua Tree National Park

At first glance, the desert may seem 

lifeless and barren. However, a closer 

look reveals a landscape teeming with 

life, providing a home for hundreds of 

species.

Two distinct environments—the 

Mojave and the Colorado deserts—

come together in Joshua Tree National 

Park. Joshua trees dwell in the higher 

elevations of the Mojave, while creosote 

bushes, cholla cactus, and ocotillo 

dominate the lower Colorado.

A changing landscape greets you at every 

turn. Joshua tree forests intermingle 

with immense boulder outcroppings. 

Reminders of ancestral peoples 

combine with the remains of mining 

infrastructure and pioneer homes. 

Experience Joshua Tree National Park

Attend a Ranger Program

Interested in learning more about Joshua 

Tree National Park? Join park rangers 

and volunteers who know it inside and 

out. Walks and programs listed on page 8.

Get Active

Take a hike, walk a nature trail, ride a 

bike, go rock-climbing. Opportunities 

to get your heart pumping are almost 

limitless. Trails are listed on page 5.

Take a Drive

Explore Park Boulevard and the Pinto 

Basin Road. Take the spur to Keys View 

for incredible panoramic views. A park 

map is located on pages 4 & 5.

Relax, Reflect, and Recharge

Take a moment to disconnect from 

the outside world. Think about what 

brought you here and what this place 

means to you.

On your journey through the park, 

examine the transitions you see, feel the 

struggle for survival in an unforgiving 

place, and discover the subtle beauty of 

the desert.

Ocotillos in bloom. NPS Photo

Emergencies Call 909-383-5651, dial 911, or contact a park ranger. 

Cell phone coverage in the park is limited.

Table of Contents

Important Information 2

Rock Formations 3

Maps & Hiking 4-5

Camping & Trip Planning 6

Backcountry Travel & Activities 6-7

Ranger Programs 8

Visitor Center Hours

Oasis 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

Joshua Tree 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Cottonwood 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Black Rock October – May

Daily (except Fridays) 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Fridays 8:00 am – 8:00 pm

David Smith
Important Information

2 Joshua Tree Guide

Park Information

getting to the park The park is 

located about 140 miles east of Los 

Angeles via I–10. Entrances to the park 

are located off CA Hwy. 62 (Twentynine 

Palms Highway), at the towns of Joshua 

Tree and Twentynine Palms. A third 

entrance is located about 25 miles east 

of Indio, via I–10.

international visitors Park 

information is available at visitor 

centers and entrance stations in Dutch, 

French, German, Italian, Japanese, 

and Spanish.

entrance fees Admission to the park 

is $15 per vehicle and is good for seven 

consecutive days. An annual Joshua 

Tree Pass may be purchased for $30 and 

a National Parks and Federal Recreation 

Lands Pass costs $80 (free to active US 

military). Both are good for 12 months. 

A Senior Pass may be purchased by any 

U.S. citizen 62 or older for $10, and it is 

good for life.

Park Regulations

pets While pets are allowed in the 

park, their activities are restricted. 

They must be on a leash at all times and 

cannot be more than 100 feet from a 

road, picnic area, or campground; they 

are prohibited from trails, and they 

must never be left unattended. 

off-road driving Vehicles, including 

bicycles, are prohibited off established 

roads. The desert ecosystem is fragile. 

Off-road driving and riding creates 

ruts, upsets delicate drainage patterns, 

compacts the soil, and leaves visual 

scars for years. Plants are crushed 

and uprooted. Wildlife shelters are 

destroyed, and food and water supplies 

are altered or obliterated. ATVs may not 

be used in the park.

bicycling Bicycling is permitted on 

public roads, both paved and dirt, but 

not on trails. There are no bicycle paths 

and roads are narrow. Use caution.

campfires Campfires are permitted in 

campgrounds and in picnic areas where 

fire grates are provided. Campfires 

are not allowed in the backcountry. 

Collecting vegetation, living or dead, 

is prohibited, so bring firewood. 

Bring extra water, too, to completely 

extinguish your campfire.

food storage Store food in hard-sided 

containers or in your vehicle to prevent 

ravens, coyotes, and other wildlife from 

eating it. 

firearms and weapons Firearms 

may be possessed in accordance with 

California state and federal laws; 

however, they may not be used in the 

park. Fireworks, traps, bows, BB guns, 

paint-ball guns, and slingshots are not 

allowed in the park. 

commercial filming A film permit is 

required when filming or photography 

involves advertising a product or 

service, the use of models, sets, props, 

or the use of a restricted site.

day-use and restricted areas Some 

areas within the park are privately 

owned; others protect wildlife or 

historical sites. Entering these areas is 

prohibited. Closed from dusk to dawn, 

day-use areas are set aside to protect 

sensitive populations of wildlife. 

keep wildlife wild Feeding wild 

animals is illegal. Feeding weans them 

from their natural food supplies and 

turns normally shy creatures into 

aggressive ones as they lose their fear of 

humans. 

horses Horseback riding is a popular 

way to experience the park. Because of 

the special requirements for stock in 

desert areas, you will want to request 

the publication on horse use before you 

come. Horse camping is available at 

Ryan and Black Rock campgrounds.

leave no trace During your 

visit please pick up trash around 

campgrounds and trails. Your actions 

will inspire other park visitors.

take only pictures With 1.4 

million people visiting Joshua Tree 

each year, it is important for every 

one of us to respect the landscape. 

Removal, disturbance, destruction, or 

For Your Safety

emergency phones In an 

emergency, call the Federal 

Interagency Communications Center 

at 909-383-5651, or dial 911. Cell 

coverage is very limited inside the 

park. Emergency phones are located 

at the ranger station in Indian Cove 

and at Intersection Rock near Hidden 

Valley Campground. 

dehydration It is easy to 

become dehydrated in arid desert 

environments. You should always 

carry water with you. We recommend 

a minimum of one gallon per person 

per day. If hiking or biking, you will 

want to take along two gallons per 

person. Drink the water and do not 

economize. When the water is half 

gone, it is time to turn back.

potable water Water is available 

at the visitor center in Twentynine 

Palms, at Black Rock and 

Cottonwood campgrounds, at the 

entrance station south of Joshua Tree, 

and at the Indian Cove ranger station. 

stay out and stay alive Mining 

was an important activity in this area 

and numerous mining sites can be 

found within the park. If you choose 

to visit them, use extreme caution 

and do not enter old mine workings.

sun safety That old desert sun can 

damage eyes as well as skin. Wear 

a hat and sunglasses and use sunblocking lotion liberally.

bees Bees may attack when their 

hives are threatened; listen for 

buzzing and stay away. Bees looking 

for water are attracted to any 

moisture source, including human 

perspiration. Don’t swat at them; 

they might sting you. Keep drinks and 

food inside your vehicle. Keep car 

windows rolled up and use caution 

when exiting. 

weather Temperatures vary widely 

from season to season. Spring and fall 

temperatures are most comfortable, 

with an average high/low of 85 and 

50°F (29 and 10°C) respectively. 

Winter brings cooler days, around 

60°F (15°C), and freezing nights. 

Summers are hot, over 100°F (38°C) 

during the day, only cooling at night.

you are responsible You are 

responsible for your own safety. 

This is a wild place and accidents do 

happen. Plan ahead and be prepared.

It is your responsibility to know and 

obey park rules. Complete rules and 

regulations are available at any visitor 

center. When in doubt, ask a ranger.

disfigurement of anything in the park is 

unlawful. Leave what you find.

trash Our dry desert climate cannot 

quickly decompose such things as 

orange peels, apple cores, egg shells, 

and other picnic remains. Dispose of all 

your trash in a responsible manner and 

recycle whatever possible.

rock climbing Climbers may replace 

existing unsafe bolts, and new bolts 

may be placed in non-wilderness areas 

using the bolting checklist. Bolting in 

wilderness requires a permit. 

vehicle laws Park roads are narrow 

and winding. Some areas are congested. 

Speed limits are there for your safety 

and well-being. State and federal vehicle 

laws apply within the park. 

parking Park roads, even the paved 

roads, are narrow, winding, and have 

soft, sandy shoulders. Accidents occur 

when visitors stop along the road to 

admire a view or make a picture. There 

are many pullouts and parking lots, 

so wait until you get to one before 

stopping.

overnight parking There is no 

overnight parking in the park, at visitor 

centers, or park headquarters. Between 

10 pm and 6 am, unattended vehicles 

may be parked only in campgrounds 

and at backcountry boards. 

wildlife viewing It is a thrill to see 

wild animals in the park, but this is their 

home and they must not be disturbed. 

Keep a respectful distance. Do not use 

artificial lights for better viewing at night.

food, lodging, services There 

are no concessions within the park. 

However, surrounding communities can 

fulfill most visitor needs.

accessibility The nature trails at 

Bajada, Cap Rock, and the Oasis of 

Mara are accessible. Keys View is 

accessible and Site 122 at Jumbo Rocks 

Campground is wheelchair accessible.

visitor centers

Oasis Visitor Center (8:30 am - 5:00 pm) 

is located in Twentynine Palms. Joshua 

Tree Visitor Center (8:00 am - 5:00 

pm) is located in Joshua Tree Village. 

Cottonwood Visitor Center

(9:00 am - 4:00 pm) serves the southern 

entrance. Black Rock Nature Center 

is open October thru May (Monday 

to Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm; Friday 

8:00 am - 8:00 pm) at Black Rock 

Campground.

lost & found Report lost, and turn 

in found, items at any visitor center 

or ranger station. Lost articles will be 

returned if found.

wildflowers Spring blooming periods 

vary with elevation, temperature, and 

the amount of moisture in the soil. You 

can find current information on the 

park website: www.nps.gov/jotr. 

weather Temperatures vary widely 

from season to season. Spring and fall 

temperatures are most comfortable, 

with an average high/low of 85 and 

50°F (29 and 10°C) respectively. Winter 

brings cooler days, around 60°F (15°C), 

and freezing nights. Summers are hot—

over 100°F (38°C) during the day and 

not cooling much below 75°F (24°C) 

until the early hours of the morning.
Emergency: dial 911 or 909-383-5651

Joint

Ground Surface

Jo ni t

Ground Surface

water

table

Ground Surface

Of the dynamic processes that erode 

rock material, water, even in arid 

environments, is the most important. 

Wind action is also important, but less 

so than the action of water. 

The processes operating in the arid 

conditions of the present are only 

partially responsible for the sculpturing 

of the rocks. The present landscape is 

essentially a collection of relic features 

inherited from earlier times of higher 

rainfall and lower temperatures.

millions of years, on a grand scale, and 

during a much wetter climate (figure 2).

After the arrival of the arid climate of 

recent times, flash floods began washing 

away the protective ground surface. As 

they were exposed, the huge eroded 

boulders settled one on top of another, 

creating the impressive rock piles we 

see today (figure 3).

hard mineral grains along its path into 

soft clay, while it loosened and freed 

grains resistant to solution. Rectangular 

stones slowly weathered to spheres 

of hard rock surrounded by soft 

clay containing loose mineral grains. 

Imagine holding an ice cube under the 

faucet. The cube rounds away at the 

corners first, because that is the part 

most exposed to the force of the water. 

A similar thing happened here, but over 

The geologic landscape of Joshua Tree 

has long fascinated visitors. How did 

the rocks take on such fantastic shapes? 

What forces sculpted them? 

Geologists believe the face of our 

modern landscape was born more than 

100 million years ago. Molten liquid, 

heated by the continuous movement 

of Earth’s crust, oozed upward and 

cooled while still below the surface 

of the overlying rock. These plutonic 

intrusions are a granitic rock called 

monzogranite. 

The monzogranite developed a 

system of rectangular joints. One 

set, oriented roughly horizontally, 

resulted from the removal, by erosion, 

of the miles of overlying rock, called 

gneiss (pronounced “nice”). Another 

set of joints is oriented vertically, 

roughly paralleling the contact of the 

monzogranite with its surrounding 

rocks. The third set is also vertical, but 

cuts the second set at high angles. The 

resulting system of joints tended to 

develop rectangular blocks (figure 1). 

Good examples of the joint system may 

be seen at Jumbo Rocks, Wonderland of 

Rocks, and Split Rock.

As ground water percolated down 

through the monzogranite’s joint 

fractures, it began to transform some 

Rockpiles

Joshua Tree Guide 3

The Weather

Measurements at 1,960 feet. At higher elevations, expect temperatures to be 7-12 

degrees cooler and mean precipitation to be up to 3.5 inches greater than shown.

NORMAL LOWS

NORMAL HIGHS

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

PRECIPITATION

Normal is 4.06 inches per year

.38 .35 .30 .10 .06 .02 .62 .68 .31 .32 .27 .46

110

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

43.3

37.7

32.2

26.7

21.1

15.5

10.0

4.4

-1.1

°F °C

Keep It for the Future

We are all stewards of this land. If we 

want it to be here for future generations, 

we must keep it safe today.

Increasing popularity brings more and 

more people to Joshua Tree National 

Park every year. Most visitors are 

respectful, but there are the few who 

decide to leave a lasting impact on the park.

What to do if you see someone 

damaging park resources:

• Do not approach them.

• Note time, location, and other details including 

descriptions, license plate/vehicle information, 

and take pictures if possible.

• Contact park staff as soon as possible at the 

nearest visitor center or entrance station.

• To report vandalism, call 911 or park dispatch 

toll free at 909-383-5651.

In recent years, park managers have 

been forced to close areas due to 

excessive vandalism. Some resources 

have been damaged to the extent that 

they can never be fully cleaned or 

replaced.

Take your time and enjoy the natural 

and cultural resources protected here as 

you journey through the park.

All parts of the park are protected by 

federal law.

Despite its apparent harshness, the 

desert is a land of extreme fragility. And 

remember: graffiti in a national park 

is not art.

Historic Barker Dam scarred by graffiti, covering more than 1500 square feet (150 square meters) 

of its east face. As recently as 2011, there was no graffiti on this historic structure at all. Vandalism 

proliferates rapidly.

Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3
Emergency: dial 911 or 909-383-5651

Boy S cout Trail

15

62

247

111

86

111

62

111

California Riding and Hiking Trail

Keys View

Lost Horse

Mine

Cholla Cactus Garden

Fortynine Palms

Oasis

Oasis of Mara

Geology Tour

Road

Cotto

Oasis Visitor Center

Cott

Visit

North Entrance Station West Entrance Station

Indian Cove

Belle 

White Tank

Jumbo 

Rocks

Sheep

Pass

Ryan

Hidden

Valley

N. Indian Canyon Dr.

Yucca Trail Alta Loma Dr

Berdoo Canyon Road

Utah Trail

Canyon Road Indian

Cove Rd Park Blvd

Am

Dillon Road

Canyon Road

To Mecca and Salton Sea 8mi 13km

To 

Los Angeles

98mi 158km

Joshua Lane

Black Rock Canyon

Oco

Pat

PALM SPRINGS

 PALM DESERT

INDIO

COACHELLA

DESERT

HOT SPRINGS

YUCCA VALLEY

TWENTYNINE PALMS

La Contenta Road

Adobe Rd

MORONGO

VALLEY

53mi 85km

CATHEDRAL

CITY

RANCHO

MIRAGE

Twentynine Palms Highway

To Victorville and

Palomar Ave

JOSHUA TREE

LOWER COVINGTON FLAT

Queen Mountain

5677ft

1731m

Eureka Peak 5516ft

1682m

4000ft

1219m

4747ft

1447m

5185ft

1581m

150ft

 46m 

1960ft

 598m 

4562ft

1391m 

Arch Rock

High View

See inset map for details

10

UPPER

COVINGTON FLAT

Joshua Tree Visitor Center

Avalon Ave

P ni kham

B

B

B

B

B

B

Quail

Springs

Keys

Ranch

Hidden

Valley

Barker

Dam Wall Street Mill

Trailhead

Hidden

Valley

Cap

Rock

Geology

Tour

Jumbo

Rocks

Live

Skull Oak

Rock Ryan

Mountain

Sheep

Pass

Keys

View

Riding & Hiking Trail

Pine City

Trailhead

Ryan

Split

Rock

B

B

B

B

Echo T

Boy 

Scout

Boy

S cout Trail

15

62

247

10

111

195

86

111

California Riding and Hiking Trail

Keys View

Lost Horse

Mine

Cholla

Cactus Garden

Fortynine Palms

Oasis

Oasis of Mara

Geology Tour

Road

Cottonwood Spring

Oasis Visitor Center

Cottonwood

Visitor Center 

North Entrance Station West

Entrance Station

Indian Cove

Belle 

White Tank

Jumbo 

Rocks

Sheep

Pass

Ryan

Hidden

Valley

Yucca Trail Alta Loma Dr

Berdoo Canyon

Road

Utah Trail

Canyon Road Indian

Cove Rd Park Blvd

Amboy Road

Dillon Road

Pinkham

Canyon

Road

Joshua Lane

Black Rock

Canyon

Ocotillo

Patch

S

 PALM DESERT

INDIO

COACHELLA

YUCCA VALLEY

TWENTYNINE PALMS

La

Contenta Road

To Mecca and Salto

Adobe R

53mi 85km

DRAL

Y

RANCHO

MIRAGE

To Victorville and

Palomar Ave

JOSHUA TREE

4-wheel-drive road

Hiking trail

Unpaved road

Picnic area

Drin

Campground

Ranger station Interpretive Trail

Medical facility

LOWER COVINGTON FLAT

Queen Mountain

5677ft

1731m

Eureka Peak

5516ft

1682m

4000ft

1219m

4747ft

1447m

3820ft

1165m 

5185ft

1581m

1960ft

 598m 

3079ft

 939m

4562ft

1391m 

Pinto Mountain

3983ft

1214m

0

0 5 Miles

5 Kilometers

North

Arch Rock

High View

Pinto Basin

Ro

Back

See inset map for details

10

Rest

UPPER

COVINGTON FLAT

Joshua Tree Visitor Center

Group Campground

(reservations required)

Avalon Ave

To Indio and Palm Springs 

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

4 Joshua Tree Guide

How Far Is It?

(distances in miles)

Belle Campground 9 28 28

Black Rock Canyon 25 65 9

Cap Rock/Keys View Road 19 40 16

Cholla Cactus Garden 18 20 36

Cottonwood Spring 38 0 56

Geology Tour Road 13 35 21

Hidden Valley 20 42 14

Indian Cove 10 48 8

Interstate 10 45 7 63

Jumbo Rocks Campground 12 34 23

Keys Ranch Tour 22 44 16

Keys View 24 45 21

Oasis of Mara 0 38 34

Pinto Basin Road/Park Blvd. 8 30 26

Ryan Campground 18 39 16

Sheep Pass Campground 16 37 19

White Tank Campground 11 27 29

Oasis

Visitor 

Center

Cottonwood

Visitor 

Center

Joshua Tree

Visitor 

Center

Ask a Ranger about the Cot

Flash flooding in 2011 and again in 2013 creat

Cottonwood Springs Oasis, Lost Palms Oasis, 

Cottonwood area (inset map, above). These tr

2013 until this newspaper went to print. They 

2014. Please ask for current trail status at a vis

For Kids hiking in the Cottonwood area. Stop at an entrance station or visitor center and pick up a free 

Junior Ranger booklet. Complete the activities and return the 

booklet to a ranger at an entrance station or visitor center to 

receive a Joshua Tree Junior Ranger badge.
Emergency: dial 911 or 909-383-5651

40

62

10

195

177

Lost Palms Oasis

onwood Spring

tonwood

tor Center 

Black Eagle Mine Roa

O

d

ld Dale Road

Gold Crown Road

mboy Road

To Amboy 30mi 48km

To 48mi 77km 

To Parker

60mi 96km

To Blythe

35mi 56km

otillo

tch

Old Dale

Mining

District

DESERT CENTER

CHIRIACO SUMMIT

To Mecca and Salton Sea 13mi 21km 

Kaiser Road

Aqua Peak

4416ft

1346m

Eagle Mountain

5350ft

1631m

3820ft

1165m 

3079ft

 939m

2957ft

902m

Pinto Mountain 3983ft

1214m

Pinto Basin Road

Bajada

All Access

See inset map for details

B

B

B

Turkey Flats

4-wheel-drive road

Hiking trail

Unpaved road

Picnic area

Drinking water

Campground

Ranger station Interpretive Trail

Medical facility

Backcountry board

Restrooms

Group Campground

(reservations required)

B

North

0

0 5 Miles

5 Kilometers

40

62

177

Lost Palms Oasis

Black Eagle Mine Roa

O

d

ld

Dale

Road

Gold Crown Road

To Amboy 30mi 48km

To 48mi 77km 

To Parker

60mi 96km

To Blythe

35mi 56km

Old Dale

Mining

District

DESERT CENTER

CHIRIACO SUMMIT

on Sea 13mi 21km 

Kaiser Road

nking water

Aqua Peak

4416ft

1346m

Eagle Mountain

5350ft

1631m

2957ft

902m

Road

kcountry board

trooms

Bajada

All Access

Mastodon Peak

To Desert Center and Blythe 

B

Joshua Tree Guide 5

Joshua Tree boasts an extensive network of hiking trails. There are many great hikes beyond the few listed here. Please stop by a visitor center and talk to a 

ranger for additional suggestions.

Trail Round-trip 

Mileage

Time Starting Point Trail Description

Boy Scout Trail 16 miles

25.8 km

1-2

days

Indian Cove backcountry board or 

Keys West backcountry board 0.5 

mile (0.8 km) east of Quail Springs 

Picnic area

Scenic trail through the western most edge of the Wonderland of Rocks. 

See backcountry board for information on overnight use. Moderate.

49 Palms Oasis 3 miles

(4.8 km)

2-3

hours

Parking area at end of Canyon 

Road, 4 miles (6.4 km) west of 

Twentynine Palms off Hwy 62

Several stands of fan palms, evidence of past fires, and pools of water 

are found at the oasis. The plants in this area are especially fragile, so 

walk lightly. Moderately strenuous.

Lost Horse 

Mine/Mt.

4 miles

(6.4 km)

3-4

hour

Parking area 1.2 miles (1.9 km) 

east of Keys View Road

Site of ten-stamp mill and foundations. Summit elevation: 5278 feet 

(1609 m). Moderately strenuous.

Ryan Mountain 3 miles

(4.8 km)

2-3

hours

Ryan Mountain parking area or 

Sheep Pass Campground

Excellent views of Lost Horse, Queen, and Pleasant Valleys. Summit 

elevation: 5461 feet (1664 m). Moderately strenuous.

Thirty-five miles of the California Riding and Hiking Trail pass through the park. Access to the trail is at its junction with Covington Flats, Keys View, and Squaw 

Tank (Geology Tour) Roads; at Ryan Campground; south of Belle Campground; and near the north entrance to the park. This allows for shorter hikes of 4, 6.7, or 

11 miles (6.4, 10.7, or 17.6 km). Two to three days are required to hike the entire length of the trail.

HIKING TRAILS

The Joshua Tree Guide is produced by the employees and volunteers of 

Joshua Tree National Park and Joshua Tree National Park Association.

ttonwood Trails

ted safety issues on the 

, and Mastodon Peak trails in the 

rails were closed from September 

y are expected to reopen in fall 

sitor center if you are interested in 

Trail Mileage Starting Point

Arch Rock .3-mile loop

(.5-km)

White Tank Campground, 

opposite site 9

Bajada AllAccess.25-mile loop

(.4-km)

South of Cottonwood, onehalf mile from the southern 

entrance to the park

Barker Dam 1.1-mile loop

(1.8-km)

Barker Dam parking area

Cap Rock .4-mile loop

(.6-km)

Cap Rock parking area, at 

the junction of Park Blvd. 

and Keys View Road

Cholla Cactus

Garden

.25-mile loop

(.4-km)

20 miles north of 

Cottonwood Visitor Center

Hidden Valley 1-mile loop

(1.6-km)

Hidden Valley picnic area

Hi-View 1.3-mile loop

(2.1-km)

Northwest of Black Rock 

Campground

Indian Cove .6-mile loop

(1-km)

West end of Indian Cove 

Campground

Keys View .25-mile loop

(.4-km)

Keys View

Oasis of 

Mara

.5-mile loop

(.8-km)

Oasis Visitor Center, 

Twentynine Palms

Skull Rock 1.7-mile

(2.7-km)

Jumbo Rocks Campground

NATURE TRAILS
Emergency: dial 911 or 909-383-5651

6 Joshua Tree Guide

climbs a steep hill, then crosses the park 

boundary. A number of side roads veer 

off toward old mines and residences. 

The main road leads to ca hwy 62, 15 

miles (24.3 km) east of Twentynine 

Palms.

Queen Valley Roads

A network of roads, totaling 13.4 miles 

(21.7 km), crosses this valley of boulder 

piles and Joshua trees. A bike trip can 

begin at Hidden Valley or the dirt road 

opposite Geology Tour Road. Bike racks 

have been placed in this area so visitors 

can lock their bikes and go hiking.

Geology Tour Road

An 18-mile motor tour leads through 

a fascinating landscapes. The road 

turns south from the paved road two 

miles (3.2 km) west of Jumbo Rocks 

Campground. There are 16 stops and it 

takes approximately two hours to make 

the round trip. The distance from the 

junction to Squaw Tank is 5.4 miles (8.8 

km) This section is mostly downhill but 

bumpy and sandy. Starting at Squaw 

Tank, a 6-mile (9.7 km) circular route 

explores Pleasant Valley. A descriptive 

brochure that highlights each stop is 

available at the beginning of the road. 

Covington Flats

The dirt roads in Covington Flats offer 

access to some of the park’s largest 

Joshua trees, junipers, and pinyon 

pines. From Covington Flats picnic area 

to Eureka Peak is 3.8 miles (6.2 km) 

one-way. The dirt road is steep near the 

end, but the top offers views of Palm 

Springs, the surrounding mountains, 

and the Morongo Basin. Your trip will 

be 6.5 miles (10.5 km) longer if you ride 

or drive over to the backcountry board, 

a starting point for excellent hiking.

Mountain bikes and 4-wheel drive 

vehicles are welcome in the park. For 

your own safety and for the protection 

of natural features, stay on established 

roads. Tire tracks on the open desert 

can last for years and will spoil the 

wilderness experience of future hikers.

Paved roads in the park are narrow 

with soft shoulders. Curves, boulder 

piles, and Joshua trees restrict the vision 

of bikers and motorists. The unpaved 

roads in the park are safer for bikes and 

offer many opportunities to explore the 

area. Here is a sampling:

Pinkham Canyon Road 

This challenging 20-mile (32.4-km) 

road begins at Cottonwood Visitor 

Center, travels along Smoke Tree Wash, 

and then cuts down Pinkham Canyon. 

Sections of the road run through soft 

sand and rocky flood plains. The road 

connects to a service road next to I-10.

Black Eagle Mine Road

Beginning 6.5 miles (10.5 km) north of 

Cottonwood Visitor Center, this deadend dirt road runs along the edge of 

Pinto Basin, crosses several dry washes, 

and winds through canyons in the Eagle 

Mountains. The first nine miles (14.5 

km) are within the park boundary. 

Beyond that point is Bureau of Land 

Management land and a number of side 

roads. Several old mines are located 

near these roads. Use extreme caution 

when exploring old mines.

Old Dale Road

This 23-mile (37.3 km) road starts at 

the same point as Black Eagle Mine 

Road. The first 11 miles (17.8 km), 

cross Pinto Basin, a flat, sandy drylake bed. Leaving the basin, the road 

for mountain bikes and 4-wheel-drive vehicles

Backcountry Roads

Viewed from the road, the desert may appear bleak and drab. Closer examination 

reveals a fascinating variety of plants and animals, as well as surreal geologic 

features. Joshua Tree National Park offers visitors endless opportunities for 

exploration and discovery. Depending on the amount of time you have and your 

interests, here are some ideas to consider:

IF YOU HAVE FOUR HOURS OR LESS, begin your tour at a park visitor center. 

Park staff will be happy to provide you with current information about conditions 

in the park as well as answers to your questions.

With limited time, you may want to confine your sightseeing to the main park 

roads. Many pullouts with wayside exhibits dot these roads. Consider experiencing at least one of the park’s nature trails (listed on page 5) walks during a short 

park visit.

On clear days the vista from Keys View extends beyond Salton Sea to Mexico and 

is well worth the additional 20-minute drive. 

IF YOU PLAN TO SPEND AN ENTIRE DAY, there will be time to walk several 

nature trails or take a longer hike; several options are listed on page 5 of this 

publication. A ranger-led program (schedule on page 8) will add enjoyment and 

understanding to your visit. Call ahead (760-367-5522) if you wish to reserve a spot 

on the popular Keys Ranch guided walking tour. 

Some visitors like to experience the desert from the seat of a mountain bike. The 

park offers an extensive network of dirt roads that make for less crowded and 

safer cycling than the paved main roads. A selection of road trips is included in the 

article titled Backcountry Roads in this publication. 

Joshua Tree has gained international attention as a superb rock-climbing area. 

Many visitors enjoy watching the rock climbers in action.

WITH MORE THAN ONE DAY IN THE PARK, your options increase. There 

are nine campgrounds and backcountry camping is permitted. You will find 

information concerning camping and backcountry use on pages 6-7.

Books and topographic maps give information needed for longer hikes. For “peak 

baggers,” the park has ten mountains over 5,000 feet (1,524 m) in elevation. Or 

make it your goal to hike to all the park oases. Other trails lead you to remnants of 

the gold mining era, a colorful part of the park’s cultural history.

Whatever you choose, your time will be rewarding. The desert holds much more 

than what is readily apparent to the casual observer. A note of caution: The desert, 

fascinating as it is, can be life-threatening for those unfamiliar with its potential 

dangers. It is essential that you carry water with you—even if you are only driving 

through. Cars break down; keys get locked inside; accidents happen.

What To See And Do

Be an inspiration to others; leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.

Campsites are limited to six people, three tents, and two 

cars. Group sites accommodate ten to 60 people.

Obtain reservations up to six months in advance for sites 

at Black Rock, Indian Cove, and all group sites by calling 

1-877-444-6777. Other campgrounds are first come-first 

served. Camp only in designated campsites.

There are no hookups for RVs. RVs may not exceed 25 

feet in length at Hidden Valley, Indian Cove groups sites, 

or White Tank. At White Tank, the 25-foot limit includes 

the towing vehicle. RVs are prohibited at Sheep Pass and 

Cottonwood group sites.

Water is available at Oasis Visitor Center, Indian Cove 

Ranger Station, West Entrance, and Black Rock and Cottonwood campgrounds. Showers are not available.

Store food in containers capable of preventing access by 

wildlife, or in your vehicle. Any scented or odorous items 

must be similarly stored. 

All vegetation is protected. Do not collect firewood.

Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am. Generator use is 

limited to six hours a day: 7 to 9 am, noon to 2 pm, and 

5 to 7 pm.

There is a 30-day camping limit each year. However, only 

14 nights total may occur from October through May.

 Group Group Horse Flush Chemical Fire Dump

Campgrounds Elevation Sites Fee Sites Fee Camp Water Toilets Toilets Tables Grates Station

Belle 3800’ 18 $10 * * *

Black Rock 4000’ 100 $15 $15 * * * * *

Cottonwood 3000’ 62 $15 3 $30 * * * * *

Hidden Valley 4200’ 45 $10 * * *

Indian Cove 3200’ 101 $15 13 $25/40 * * *

Jumbo Rocks 4400’ 125 $10 * * *

Ryan 4300’ 31 $10 $10 * * *

Sheep Pass 4500’ 6 $25/40 * * *

White Tank 3800’ 15 $10 * * *

Campgrounds
Emergency: dial 911 or 909-383-5651

Joshua Tree Guide 7

Keep

Wildlife

 Wild

Enjoy animals at a distance.

Never feed or approach them.

Store food and trash properly.

Joshua Tree National Park 

Superintendent: David Smith

Designations

National Park – 1994

Biosphere Reserve – 1984

National Monument – 1936

Size

792,623 acres

Park Information

760-367-5500 

Web Site

www.nps.gov/jotr/

Social Media

twitter.com/joshuatreenp

facebook.com/joshuatreenp

flickr.com/photos/joshuatreenp

E-mail

jotr_info@nps.gov 

Mailing Address

74485 National Park Drive

Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

Fax Number

760-367-6392

The National Park Service cares 

for the special places saved by the

American people so that all may

experience our heritage.

National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Located in the northwest corner of the park, the road 

to Black Rock Canyon dead-ends at the campground. 

Campsites are located on a hillside at the mouth of the 

canyon surrounded by Joshua trees, junipers, cholla cactus, 

and a variety of desert shrubs. Spring blooms usually begin 

with the Joshua trees in late February followed by shrubs and 

annuals through May.

This quiet, family campground is a good introduction for 

first-time campers. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire 

ring with rest rooms and water nearby. If you forget to bring 

your firewood, shopping facilities are only five miles away 

in the town of Yucca Valley. Campsites vary in size and can 

accommodate both tents and RVs. A day-use picnic area 

and a dump station are also available. For horse owners, a 

separate area is provided for camping or for staging a ride.

Drivers should be aware that the road to Black Rock Canyon 

is very rough. The road, belonging to the town of Yucca 

Valley, has deep potholes and can be difficult to negotiate, 

especially in large vehicles. Drive slowly and with caution.

Campers register and pay camping fees at the nature center 

located in the middle of the campground. The staff at this 

small visitor center, open Oct.-May, can help you plan a hike 

or other activity. Maps, books, nature guides, and children’s 

activity books may be purchased there.

The hills behind the campground offer a variety of hiking 

trails including the Hi-View Nature Trail. The interpretive 

guide for this trail, available at the nature center, identifies the 

vegetation along this scenic 1.3-mile walk. For those looking 

for longer trails, Eureka Peak, Panorama Loop, and Warren 

Peak take hikers to ridge lines overlooking the often snowy 

peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio. The trailhead for 

a 35-mile section of the California Riding and Hiking Trail 

is located at Black Rock. Backpackers can register at the 

backcountry board here for overnight wilderness trips.

But you don’t have to hike to enjoy the Black Rock Canyon 

area. Wildlife sightings are frequent in the campground. 

Visitors often encounter ground squirrels, jackrabbits, 

and cottontails. Frequent bird sightings include cactus 

wrens, Gambel’s quail, great horned owls, scrub-jays, 

and roadrunners. A lucky birder might be rewarded with 

a glimpse of a Scott’s oriole, pinyon jay, or LeConte’s 

thrasher. More elusive species such as bobcat, bighorn sheep, 

mountain lions, desert tortoises, and mule deer have all been 

seen in the area. As the sun sets, listen for the “singing” of 

coyotes living on the outskirts of the campground. 

Enjoy viewing wildlife from a respectful distance, and 

remember—never feed wild animals in Joshua Tree National 

Park. People food is unhealthy for them and they could 

become aggressive towards humans. 

Exploring Black Rock Canyon 

Joshua Tree National Park is a backpacker’s dream with its 

mild winter climate and interesting rock formations, plants, 

and wildlife. It embraces 794,000 acres, of which 585,040 

acres have been designated wilderness. By observing the 

guidelines below, your venture into the backcountry should 

be safe and enjoyable. If you have questions, ask a ranger. It is 

your responsibility to know and abide by park regulations.

Registering

If you will be out overnight, register at a backcountry board. 

The map in this publication indicates the location of the 

twelve backcountry boards. An unregistered vehicle or a 

vehicle left overnight somewhere other than at a backcountry 

board is a cause for concern about the safety of the vehicle’s 

occupants. It is also subject to citation and towing.

Hiking

It is easy to get disoriented in the desert: washes and animal 

trails crisscross the terrain obscuring trails, boulder piles 

are confusingly similar, and there are not many prominent 

features by which to guide yourself. Do get yourself a topographic map and compass or GPS unit and learn how to use 

them before you head out. Cell phones are often not usable 

inside the park. 

Know your limitations and don’t take risks. You should not 

attempt to climb steep terrain without adequate equipment, 

conditioning, and training. Accidents can be fatal.

Carry a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day 

just for drinking, two gallons in hot weather or if you are 

planning a strenuous trip. You will need additional water for 

cooking and hygiene. And don’t forget the other essentials: 

rain protection, a flashlight, a mirror and whistle, a first-aid 

kit, pencil and paper, a pocket knife, and extra food.

Locating your camp

Your wilderness camp must be located one mile from the 

road and 500 feet from any trail. Make yourself aware of any 

day-use areas in the vicinity (they are indicated on the maps 

at the backcountry boards) and make certain to camp outside 

their boundaries.

Washes may seem like inviting places to sleep because they 

are relatively level, but it is important to realize that they got 

that way because flash floods “bulldozed” the rocks and vegetation out of the way.

Domestic issues

Water sources in the park are not potable and are reserved 

for wildlife, so you will have to carry an adequate supply 

for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. You will want to give 

some thought to the trade-off between the water required 

to hydrate dried foods and the heftier weight of canned and 

fresh foods. If you want to heat something, you will need to 

pack in a stove and fuel, as open fires are prohibited in the 

backcountry. 

Bring plastic bags to hold your garbage, and pack it out. 

Buried trash gets dug up by animals and scattered by the 

wind; it is not a pretty sight. Do bury human waste in “cat 

holes” six inches deep. Don’t bury your toilet paper; put it in 

plastic (zip-top bags work nicely) and pack it out. Leave no 

trace.

Coping with the weather

That old desert sun can damage eyes as well as skin. Wear a 

hat and sunglasses and use sun-blocking lotion liberally. 

Temperature changes of 40 degrees within 24 hours are 

common. Bring a variety of clothes so you can layer on and 

off as conditions change.

Although rain is relatively rare in the desert, when it does 

come it can really pour down. Even when it isn’t raining 

where you are, rain in the mountains can run off so fast as to 

cause flash floods. Stay alert.

Horseback riding

Horseback riding is a popular way to experience the 

backcountry and there are 253 miles of equestrian trails 

that traverse open lands, canyon bottoms, and dry washes. 

Because of the special requirements for horses, care should 

be taken in planning your trip. You may call 760-367-5500 

and request that additional information be mailed to you.

Backcountry Camping, Hiking, and Horseback Riding
Emergency: dial 911 or 909-383-5651

8 Joshua Tree Guide

Ranger Programs

Discover Joshua Tree with free programs given by park rangers and volunteers. 

Learn how humans, wildlife, and vegetation have adapted to survive in the desert, 

and how geological forces have shaped this arid land. Join us for guided walks, 

patio talks, and evening programs. Availability varies with the season and weather 

conditions. Check at any visitor center for a complete list of programs and events.

Since parking is limited, we recommend you arrive a bit early at program meeting 

locations. Children under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Programs take 

place outdoors, but may be cancelled or moved inside during inclement weather or 

when lightning danger is present. Please bring a hat, wear sunscreen, and carry 

plenty of water.

Time Program Meeting Location Duration

Distance

Su M Tu W Th F Sa

9:00 am Barker Dam Hike

Explore how humans have learned to live in 

harmony with the desert.

Barker Dam parking area 1.5 hours

1 mile (1.6 km) X

9:00 am Joshua Tree Rocks!

Examine the geology of this remarkable area.

Skull Rock parking area 1-1.5 hours

1 mile (1.6 km) X

9:00 am “I Speak for the Trees”

Take a walk with a ranger and discover the park’s 

namesake.

Echo T parking area 1.5 hours

1 mile (1.6 km) X

10:00 am Patio Talk 

Learn about one of many fascinating aspects of 

the park. Topics are ranger’s choice.

Oasis Visitor Center 15-30 minutes X X X X X X X

Cottonwood Visitor Center 15-30 minutes X X

2:00 pm In the Shadow of Pinto Mountain 

Explore the Colorado Desert and Pinto Basin on 

this short walk.

Turkey Flats backcountry board 1.5 hours

1 miles (1.6 km) X

2:00 pm Cap Rock Discovery Walk

Discover the abundance of life in the desert.

Cap Rock Nature Trail 45 minutes

0.25 miles (0.4 km) X

2:00 pm Cottonwood Canyon Walk

Explore Cottonwood Canyon on a nature walk.

Mile marker 33, south of the 

Cottonwood Visitor Center. Park 

in a roadside pullout.

45 minutes

1 mile (1.6 km) X

2:00 pm Story Time with a Ranger 

Join a ranger for a story capturing an aspect of 

the desert.

Joshua Tree Visitor Center 30 minutes

X

varies Keys Ranch Tour (October 15 to May 15)

Explore the colorful story and numerous artifacts 

of this premier historical site. 

Reservations are required. Tickets must be 

purchased at least 24 hours in advance. You may 

purchase tickets by phone at 760-367-5522 or at 

the Joshua Tree and Oasis Visitor Centers. Adults 

(12 & up) $5; Senior Pass or Access Pass holders 

$2.50; children ages 6-11 $2.50; children under 6 

free.

Keys Ranch Gate 1.5 hours

10:00 

am

2:00 

pm

2:00 

pm

7:00 pm Evening Program 

Relax beneath the stars and enjoy a presentation 

about the park’s fascinating natural or cultural 

history. Check visitor centers for topics.

Jumbo Rocks Campground 

Amphitheater

45 minutes X X

Cottonwood Campground 

Amphitheater

45 minutes X X

Program schedule is valid from November 20, 2014 through May 3, 2015. Joshua Tree National Park is in the Pacific time zone.

Think Globally, Act Locally

Bring your “CA CRV”-eligible aluminum, glass, and plastic (no food containers) to a campground recycling center.

Share or recycle this Joshua Tree Guide when you have finished reading it. Participate in recycling in your community.