If you’re planning to camp in Joshua Tree National Park, you’ve probably heard that finding a campsite can be a challenge. With a limited number of sites, high demand during climbing season, and no shortage of weekend warriors, competition is fierce. But don’t worry—I’ve been through it and learned a few tricks to help you secure your spot.
Camping outside of the Joshua Tree National Park on BLM to avoid the crowds. Photo by Dalton Johnson
How to Reserve a Campsite in Joshua Tree National Park
The easiest way to guarantee a spot is by reserving a campsite in advance. You can book sites at popular campgrounds like Hidden Valley, Jumbo Rocks, and Ryan Campground through Recreation.gov. These sites often open for reservations six months in advance, so planning early is essential, especially if you’re visiting during peak climbing season or over a holiday weekend.
However, reservations aren’t always possible. Maybe you planned a last-minute trip or all the reservable sites were snatched up. Don’t panic—there are other camping options.
Option 1: Show Up Early
If you couldn’t reserve a site, your next best bet is to arrive early and start scouting for available spots. This strategy works best on weekdays or during the off-season, but if it’s a weekend or holiday, your chances are slim. Many of the campgrounds, especially Hidden Valley, fill up quickly because climbers often use a buddy system to rotate between sites and maximize their time in the park.
Pro Tip: Drive through campgrounds like Hidden Valley and Ryan right after checkout time (typically late morning) to see if anyone is leaving.
Option 2: Share a Campsite
If you’re comfortable asking around, finding someone to share a campsite with can be a great solution. Campground spots often have space for multiple tents, and if someone is camping solo, they might be open to splitting the cost. I’ve had good luck with this approach, and it’s led to some memorable conversations and new friends.
When approaching someone to share their site, be respectful and offer to pitch in with the fee or even share some snacks or firewood as a gesture of goodwill.
Option 3: Camp on BLM Land
If you’re striking out inside the park, BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land outside Joshua Tree offers free dispersed camping. Some popular areas include Sunfair Dry Lake Bed and the North Entrance BLM land. The main downside is that you’ll need to commute into the park each day, which can add up in gas if you’re driving a van like me. It’s less convenient, but the open desert views are stunning, and you can avoid the crowds.
Here are a few tips for camping on BLM land:
Arrive before dark. Finding a level spot in the desert can be tricky at night.
Pack it out. Leave no trace applies here, just like inside the park.
Know your limits. Some BLM areas have rough dirt roads, so ensure your vehicle can handle them.
The winter rock climbing in Joshua Tree is some of my favorite in all of the United States, which makes sense why finding a campsite is hard during climbing season. Photo by Dalton Johnson
What Doesn’t Work (Most of the Time)
The usual advice for finding a campsite—show up early, be patient, and drive through multiple campgrounds—isn’t always helpful in Joshua Tree. During climbing season, the park gets packed, and even the early birds may find themselves out of luck. That’s why I recommend thinking outside the box and being flexible with your plans.
Tips for Success
Avoid peak times. Midweek visits are less crowded, and you’ll have a better chance of scoring a site.
Consider the shoulder season. Late fall and early spring offer cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Scout multiple campgrounds. Don’t limit yourself to just one area—Jumbo Rocks and Ryan Campground are great options, but they’re not the only ones.
Playing a game of chess during the hot time of the day in HIdden Valley camp ground. Photo by Dalton Johnson
The Bottom Line
Finding a campsite in Joshua Tree takes planning, patience, and sometimes a little creativity. Whether you reserve a spot months in advance, share a site with a fellow camper, or head out to BLM land, there’s always a way to enjoy a night under the stars. With these tips in mind, you’ll be better equipped to tackle the challenges and make the most of your trip.
