Joshua Tree National Park

"This is a really magical place. I hope I can go back one day. We entered the park while on a road trip from Tucson —> Palm Springs. We entered at the Cottonwood visitor centre, and were greeted by a beyond lovely ranger, who engaged my little kids immediately. We checked out the cottonwood Oasis, then drove to Skull rock where the kids loved exploring on the boulders. We then drove to the keys view (gorgeous) and did another short walk (about an hr w kids) at Hidden Valley. Being there on a warm day, while the sun was starting to set, made it extra special"

"CHOLA CACTUS GARDENS WERE CLOSED February 5th, 2026 - check before you go. If you enter in from the west wide of the park from Joshua Tree, you will pass a small parking area with a bathroom before reaching the place to pay. You'll pay at a booth $30 for a seven day pass. They have other options as well. You'll be met with a landscape of Joshua Trees almost immediately upon approach or the park. There are impressive and almost alien rock formations throughout the entire park. It will take at least almost two hours to drive from one end of the park to the other. If you do drive through the entire thing, it will take you to 29 Palms on the east end. One you hit the turnoff for the Chola Gardens, there will be NO outhouse/restrooms so go before. Hundreds of viewpoints along the road to stop at. They also have multiple campgrounds throughout the entire park. It is only a two land road in and out so you may find yourself behind a slower moving RV etc. plenty of great trails to hike or varying levels and so many great options for places to have picnics as well."

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Joshua Tree National Park is such a magical place. The landscapes are unreal, the sunsets are stunning, and there’s such a peaceful energy the moment you arrive. One of those places that feels inspiring and unforgettable. Loved exploring the trails, seeing the iconic Joshua trees, and taking in how beautiful everything is. Perfect for a day trip, photos, hiking, or just enjoying nature and the quiet. A truly special place and definitely worth visiting. — Savannah Clarke"

"It was a great park with many cool rocks and amazing plants. I loved the cacti and the Joshua Trees were so unique. Although many of the attractions were crowded if you get there early enough you can see them all without any crowd. My favorite hike was the panorama view loop which had stunning views."

"I was doing the I 10 West Dr. and noticed I was only 10 minutes away went through the south entrance and I just had to stop and hike. The place is breathtaking. I was able to watch the sunset and I recommend that if you are headed west to California. This is something where you stop and enjoy it. Definitely spend at least a day here. It is a very magical place. Very friendly people who work here as well."