Joshua Tree National Park
Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together in Joshua Tree National Park.
Photo: NPS / Emily Hassell / NPS
About 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!
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Driving times from Joshua Tree National Park, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Entrance fees
Entrance - Private Vehicle
$30.007-day vehicle permit, admitting the passengers of a single, non-commercial vehicle on the day of purchase and for the next six days.
Entrance - Motorcycle
$25.00Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
Entrance - Per Person
$15.007-day entrance fee, per person on foot or bike.
Hours
Joshua Tree National Park
- Mon
- All Day
- Tue
- All Day
- Wed
- All Day
- Thu
- All Day
- Fri
- All Day
- Sat
- All Day
- Sun
- All Day
Activities
Getting there
Days are typically clear with less than 25% humidity. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average highs around 85°F (29°C) and average lows around 50°F (10°C) respectively. Winter brings cooler days, around 60°F (15°C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are hot, over 100°F (38°C) during the day and not cooling much below 75°F (24°C) at night.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to enter Joshua Tree National Park?
- Entrance to Joshua Tree National Park starts at $15. See the fees section above for each pass and vehicle type.
- What is there to do at Joshua Tree National Park?
- Popular activities include Astronomy, Auto and ATV, Backcountry Camping, Backcountry Hiking, Biking, Birdwatching.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Joshua Tree National Park?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail (2 h 22 min), Cabrillo National Monument (3 h 56 min), Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (4 h 15 min), Mojave National Preserve (4 h 23 min), César E. Chávez National Monument (4 h 43 min), Tuzigoot National Monument (5 h 31 min).