Joshua Tree National Park

Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together in Joshua Tree National Park. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land sculpted by strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California. Come explore for yourself!

National ParkDesignation
CAState
80°FTemperature
AQI 80Moderate
LIVE · SYNCED FROM THE NPS

In the park right now

Information Annual Summer Closures and Restrictions in Effect

The 49 Palms trail along with some campgrounds, facilities, and areas have adjusted availability during the summer. For the full list of changes, please visit our Summer Closures page.

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Caution Oasis of Mara Trail Partial Closure

Due to a heavy flooding event, the Oasis of Mara Trail is closed past the Oasis.

Caution Inaccurate Third-Party Apps

Some third-party hiking apps are providing inaccurate trail and safety information to users. Please use the official NPS app for accurate information.

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80°F
TonightMostly Clear💨 0 to 5 mph
Thursday107°Sunny
Thursday Night80°Mostly Clear
Friday109°Sunny
NOAA · api.weather.gov
Live view from the View from Belle Mountain camera WEBCAMS 1 camera working now View from Belle Mountain · live view See the park right now →
80
AIR QUALITY · AQI Moderate Main pollutant: OZONE
as of Jul 30, 03:00 UTC AirNow.gov · EPA/NOAA/NPS
SLEEP CLOSE TO THE GATE · HONEST LOCATION MATH

Where to stay

Which side of Joshua Tree National Park actually saves you drive time — with live rates, not "top-10 from nowhere".

🏕️ In-park & campgrounds

Wake up inside the gate — first light at the trailhead, no morning commute.

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🛏️ Gateway-town hotels

Rooms minutes from the entrance with pools, breakfast and parking.

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🚐 RV & camper vans

Bring the room with you — 63 parks from your own window.

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PARTNER LINKS · RATES SHOWN ON THE PARTNER SITE

GETTING THERE

Plan the drive in

✈️ Nearest airports

We map the closest regional and major airports for each park we cover in depth.

🚗 Rental cars

A car is essential at most parks — book early for summer and holiday weekends.

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🅿️ Parking & shuttles

Where lots fill by 8 AM and which shuttle skips the stress — see "Know before you go" above.

GUIDED TOURS

Book a guide

🌅 Sunrise & summit tours

Beat the crowds with a local guide who knows the timing.

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🚤 Signature experiences

Boat, wildlife and scenic tours matched to Joshua Tree National Park.

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👪 Family-friendly outings

Easy, kid-approved guided trips with real outfitters.

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