Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is one of America's most unique desert landscapes, where two distinct desert ecosystems - the Mojave and Colorado - come together. The park gets its name from the Joshua trees that dot the landscape, with their twisted, spiky shapes that look like something straight out of a Dr. Seuss book.
The park spans over 790,000 acres of southern California and features incredible rock formations that attract climbers from around the world. These massive boulders and granite monoliths were formed millions of years ago through intense volcanic activity and erosion. Skull Rock and Arch Rock are particularly popular spots that have been shaped by nature into fascinating forms.
Beyond the rocks and Joshua trees, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and numerous bird species. The night sky here is spectacular too - Joshua Tree is a designated International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the best stargazing in Southern California.
The area has a rich human history going back thousands of years. Native American tribes including the Serrano, Cahuilla, and Chemehuevi used the land for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. Later, miners, ranchers, and homesteaders tried to make a living in this harsh but beautiful environment, leaving behind historic sites like Keys Ranch that visitors can tour today.
ratings
| Category | Rating | Your Rating |
|---|---|---|
| adventure |
|
|
| atmosphere |
|
|
| hiking |
|
|
| scenery |
|
|
| tourism |
|
|
| wildlife |
|
|
Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park
Top things to do in Joshua Tree National Park by www.planetware.com
Where to stay in Joshua Tree National Park
Best hotels in Joshua Tree National Park:
-
Field Station (budget hotel)
Field Station in Joshua Tree National Park is a cool spot for travelers looking to explore the desert. The modern rooms are spacious and comfy, with a minimalist vibe that fits the surroundings. You'll find nice amenities like a pool and hot tub for relaxing after a day of hiking.
The location is great - it's right off the main road but still feels quiet and peaceful. You're close to restaurants in town and it's an easy drive to get into the national park. At night, gather around the fire pits and do some stargazing. The staff is super friendly and helpful if you need tips on what to see and do in the area.
Overall, Field Station offers a laid-back home base for your Joshua Tree adventure. The rooms are clean and well-designed, and you get a lot of value for the price. It's a good choice whether you're looking to hit the trails or just chill out in the desert for a few days.
-
Casa De Frank (homestay)
Casa De Frank is a cozy spot, it's got a great location - you can walk to all the cool shops and restaurants in town, plus it's just a short drive to the national park entrance.
The place has a laid-back vibe with a big backyard where you can hang out around the fire pit or soak in the hot tub after a day of hiking. Inside, there's a full kitchen if you want to cook, plus a comfy living room area to chill. The rooms are simple but have everything you need.
What's really nice is how close you are to everything. You can easily walk to grab coffee, pizza, or drinks without having to drive. And the hosts are super friendly and helpful if you need any tips for exploring the area. It's a great home base for checking out Joshua Tree, whether you're into hiking, stargazing, or just soaking up the desert vibes.
-
AutoCamp Joshua Tree (luxury hotel)
AutoCamp Joshua Tree offers a unique desert getaway experience just outside the national park. The property features stylish Airstream trailers and luxury tents decked out with modern amenities. Guests can lounge by the outdoor pool, stargaze around fire pits, or explore the surrounding desert landscape.
The onsite clubhouse serves as a central hangout spot with a restaurant, bar, and plenty of cozy spaces to relax. Adventure seekers can rent bikes or join guided hikes to explore Joshua Tree National Park right next door. At night, the property comes alive with live music performances and s'mores by the campfire.
With its blend of outdoor adventure and upscale comfort, AutoCamp provides a perfect basecamp for experiencing the magic of the Mojave Desert. The friendly staff and stylish accommodations create a memorable "glamping" experience in one of California's most iconic landscapes.
-
Holiday Inn Express (medium range hotel)
The Holiday Inn Express in Twentynine Palms is a solid choice if you're visiting Joshua Tree National Park. It's just a short 6.5 mile drive to the park entrance, making it super convenient for day trips.
The rooms are comfy and well-equipped, with amenities like microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee makers. I really liked that they have both king rooms and rooms with two queen beds - great options whether you're traveling solo or with family. The outdoor heated pool is a nice perk after a day of hiking, and there's also a fitness center if you want to squeeze in a workout.
One of the best parts is the free breakfast. They've got a good spread with hot and cold options to fuel up before heading into the park. The staff are friendly and helpful too. Overall, it's a reliable and comfortable base for exploring Joshua Tree without breaking the bank. Just keep in mind it books up fast during peak seasons!
book now on booking.com