Joshua Tree Suggestions

[SLK619]

I posted this in the Off Topic Section but thought I would Also ask here as well.

I want to take a 2 day camping trip in Joshua Tree but I have never been. Can anyone recommend me some good camping and hikes spot in the park.

Much appreciated,

[leman77]

Camping is pretty rustic, no shade so take an EZ Up. Don't go when it's too hot, as it's no fun. Plenty of open space to hike or bike, or off road. Be careful if you have a dog as the critters there like to snatch pets when you're not looking. It's fun to climb the rocks, but look out for snakes this time of year. Have fun!

[grenades42]

There is a small damn near the Keys Ranch I recommend seeing. Its a short hike but kids and able bodied people can manage the rocks around the pond. With the extra rain this would probably be the year to see it. Not sure where to camp. Definitely watch for snakes as there will be more meals for them drawn to that water.

[Ki6vsm]

There is a small damn near the Keys Ranch I recommend seeing.

A small what damn near there?

[cpttimerestraint]

A small what damn near there?

He is referring to Barker Dam. It is going to be really hot this time of year. The wall street mill is pretty cool

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[raastamon23]

Last time I camped at jtnp was at white tank campground where arch rock is located. It has less camping spots so less campers but you get a lot of visitors wanting to see arch rock. I did the queens mine trail which wasn't too bad. If you can't get a campsite there's a blm area nearby as well.

[as_rocketman]

We were there last week. Camped at Black Rock Campground, which has many amenities. Also was full of obnoxious Boy Scouts but that's always a hazard. It's cooler on that side of the desert.

Favorite hikes are the Lost Palms Oasis (trailhead at the Cottonwood ranger station -- south entrance) and the Lost Horse Mine (dirt road to trailhead on the way down to Keys View). Neither is going to be a death march but they are substantial hikes, so take water and be smart.

Most folks go for the rock scrambling, which is admittedly quite excellent.

ETA: The best National Parks website on hiking trails is this one: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm Pick a spot and see what you like.

[SLK619]

Thanks for the advise all. Im excited for this trip since I've never been. I will post pictures when I get back. I was thinking Jumbo Rocks campsite but not sure yet.

[JagerDog]

Campsites were full Memorial weekend. We dry camped on the BLM property north of the west entrance. Being I have a cabover camper with it's own ammenities and brought the dogs, I much prefer what they now call "dispersed camping". There were folks with motorcycles, quads, 4x4's, rock crawlers, etc. but they were mostly grouped up against the ridge and we stayed on the flat. Some target shooters (heard, not seen) at another encampment. It was a pleasant experience and had plenty of room to ourselves.

Didn't hike around much as it wasn't our destination, but rather on the way to Grand/Bryce canyons. There are some cool rocks and stuff. The trailhead parking areas were quite crowded.

Warning signs for agressive bees, of which we encountered some with no casualties.

[TrailerparkTrash]

Honestly, Joshua Tree sucks. Like others have said, no shade, no trees, and NOTHING to do. Been there, done that several times.

I highly recommend a 2-3 day "road trip" camping expedition on the Mohave trail instead. Start at the CA/AZ boarder and work your way West to Baker, CA. It's a blast with much to see. Sleep/camp in a differ not spot each night. It's worth it. The off roading is easy.