Visiting the Joshua Tree National Park, California

If you are visiting Los Angeles, or if you are planning a camping trip to California, then the Joshua Tree National Park is well worth a visit – especially if you love the outdoors and have a passion for outdoor activities.  Located only 140 miles from LA, it’s well within a day trip from the city and even in one day, you’ll be able to take the opportunity to follow one of the shorter hiking trails within the park and take part in some activities (depending on how long you can stay in the park before having to start back for the city).

The first thing you need to think about before entering the park however is that this is a desert area and as such you must have water with you.  Also, once inside the park, there’s no concession areas where you can buy supplies so you must take any food you’ll require with you.  This is a natural environment and as such, there are many park rules that you must abide by so a visit to the visitor’s center is a must before you enter the park – you’ll also get a good idea of what’s happening where in the park here as well as be able to pick up a map of the area.  Note there are no RV hook-up areas within the park.

Available in the park are camping facilities but places are limited and there’s no “overflow” camping area so if you are hoping to camp in the park, make sure you reserve your space before leaving home.  The added bonus of an overnight stay in the Joshua Tree National Park is the starlit sky – astronomy followers will love this park for the opportunity it gives to study the night sky.  There are also night-time ranger programs available on certain evenings so check what’s happening in which campsite before you make your reservation. 

Whether you want to partake in bird watching activities, or something more educational such as the geology motor tour, or even a strenuous activity like rock climbing, there’s something for everyone in the Joshua Tree National Park.