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Joshua Tree is one of those places that feels a little magical. The strange twisted trees, giant boulders, and endless desert light make it look like another planet. It’s quiet, wild, and beautiful in its own rugged way.
This 3 day Joshua Tree National Park itinerary covers all the highlights, from short hikes and scenic drives to peaceful sunsets among the rocks. Whether you’re in an RV, tent camping, or staying in a quirky desert cabin, you’ll get a true feel for this unique national park.
Contents
Planning to Visit Joshua Tree National Park
Park Pass
Entrance costs $30 per vehicle and is valid for seven days. If you already have an America the Beautiful pass, it’s accepted here. If you plan to visit several national parks this year, go ahead and get the America the Beautiful annual pass for $80. It covers all national parks and is worth it after just two or three visits.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Joshua Tree is spring or fall when days are warm and nights are cool. Summer temperatures can climb over 100 degrees, so plan outdoor activities early in the morning or close to sunset if you visit during the hotter months. Winter brings crisp days and chilly nights that are perfect for campfires.
Getting Around
There are no shuttles or public transportation inside the park, so you’ll need to drive yourself. The main park entrances are near the towns of Joshua Tree, Twentynine Palms, and Yucca Valley. Roads are paved and easy to navigate, but there are no gas stations inside the park, so fill up before you enter.
RV Access
Joshua Tree is very RV friendly, but sites fill up quickly, and many campgrounds do not have hookups. Most RVers stay at Jumbo Rocks Campground, Indian Cove, or Black Rock Campground. Roads through the park are paved and suitable for large RVs, but there are tight turnouts in some areas, so take your time.
Camping Reservations
Campgrounds are managed through Recreation.gov, and you should book as early as possible. If everything inside the park is full, there are private campgrounds and RV parks in nearby Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms.
3 Day Joshua Tree National Park Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to the Desert
Start your morning at the Joshua Tree Visitor Center in the town of Joshua Tree to grab maps and check current conditions. Then enter through the West Entrance Station and head toward Hidden Valley Nature Trail. It’s a one-mile loop surrounded by massive boulders and desert plants. It’s an easy hike and one of the best introductions to the park.
Next, drive to Barker Dam Trail, another short and easy loop where you’ll often spot birds and sometimes even bighorn sheep. The small dam creates a rare patch of water in the desert, and you’ll also see old ranching and petroglyph sites.
In the afternoon, stop at Keys View for a panoramic look over the Coachella Valley and San Andreas Fault. This is an easy viewpoint with almost no walking required, but the view stretches for miles. Stick around for sunset here or at Cap Rock, both are stunning when the light turns the desert gold.
After dark, enjoy the night sky. Joshua Tree is one of the best stargazing parks in the country. If the moon is out, take a short walk around your campsite with a flashlight and listen to the desert come alive at night.
Day 2: Rocks, Cactus, and Joshua Trees
Start early and drive toward Skull Rock. You can park along the road and walk right up to it, or hike the short Skull Rock Trail, an easy loop that winds through fields of boulders.
Next, make your way to the Cholla Cactus Garden, one of the most photographed spots in the park. The short boardwalk takes you through thousands of fuzzy-looking cholla cactus that glow in the sunlight. Morning is the best time to visit before it gets too hot.
Head toward Arch Rock for your next stop. The Arch Rock Trail is about 1.5 miles round trip and leads to a beautiful natural stone arch framed by massive boulders. Bring water and wear good shoes because the sand can be soft in some sections.
In the late afternoon, explore Ryan Mountain Trail if you’re up for a more challenging hike. It’s about 3 miles round trip with a steady climb, and the view from the top gives you a 360 degree look over the park.
End your day watching the sunset at Hidden Valley or Keys View. The colors are unreal, and the temperature drops fast once the sun sets.
Day 3: The Quiet Corners of the Park
Spend your final day exploring some of the quieter areas. Head out early toward Black Rock Canyon on the northwest side of the park. The Black Rock Canyon Trail is a nice moderate option that winds through Joshua trees and desert hills. You can turn around at the first ridge for a 3 mile round trip or continue deeper into the canyon.
Afterward, drive through Queen Valley Road and Geology Tour Road for scenic desert views. Geology Tour Road is unpaved but fine for most cars if the weather is dry. The drive gives you a great look at how the desert landscape changes from rocky to sandy plains.
In the afternoon, stop by the Joshua Tree Cultural Center in the town of Twentynine Palms or grab lunch at one of the local spots nearby. If you still have energy, return to the park for one more short hike, like Hidden Valley or Cap Rock, to say goodbye to the desert.
Finish the evening with a campfire or dinner under the stars. Joshua Tree’s night sky is always the perfect ending.
Where to Stay
RV Camping Options
- Jumbo Rocks Campground – Central location, surrounded by boulders, perfect for sunrise and sunset walks right from your site.
- Indian Cove Campground – Great for climbers and large RVs, with dramatic rock formations and easy access from Twentynine Palms.
- Black Rock Campground – Near the town of Yucca Valley, has some larger sites and access to hiking trails.
Lodging for Non RV Travelers
- Joshua Tree Inn – Classic desert motel with quirky charm and a pool for hot afternoons.
- Pioneertown Motel – Historic spot near Pappy and Harriet’s, with western movie vibes and beautiful desert sunsets.
- 29 Palms Inn – Unique desert retreat with adobe cottages and an on-site restaurant.
Final Tips for Visiting Joshua Tree
- Bring more water than you think you’ll need. There is no water inside the park except at a few campgrounds.
- Cell service is very limited, so download maps and directions before you go.
- The desert sun is intense. Wear a hat, sunscreen, and light layers.
- Never climb on rocks alone or after dark. It’s easy to lose your bearings once the light fades.
- If you’re visiting with pets, note that dogs are only allowed within 100 feet of roads, picnic areas, and campgrounds, not on hiking trails.
Happy Travels!
Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book.
