Best things to do in Joshua Tree National Park

Updated April 27th, 2022
Driving on a paved road in Joshua Tree National Park, south California

Joshua Tree is a world-famous national park located in southern California. The park is named for the unique Joshua trees that grow in the area. The park is also home to a variety of other plants and animals. Joshua Tree is best known for its hiking and rock climbing. The park has over 150 miles of hiking trails, and visitors can also go rock climbing and bouldering. Other popular activities in Joshua Tree include camping, birdwatching, and stargazing. The park is also home to a variety of interesting geological features. Joshua Tree is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California.

1. Hiking in Joshua Tree National Park

A visitor hiking in Joshua Tree National Park in Joshua Tree would likely experience a variety of emotions, from awe to amazement, as they explore the many different landscapes and ecosystems found within the park. The park is known for its dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife, and hikers will likely spend hours exploring its many trails.

2. Biking in Joshua Tree National Park

A visitor biking in Joshua Tree National Park will likely feel the wind in their hair and the sun on their skin. The scenery will be a mix of rugged mountains and sandy areas, with hiking trails and bike paths cutting through it all.

3. Rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park

When someone visits Joshua Tree National Park to rock climb, their experience will be one of awe and excitement. The park is full of beautiful rock formations that provide a perfect backdrop for climbers to test their skills. The sandy, grippy rock surfaces makes for a challenging and exciting experience that is sure to leave visitors wanting more.

4. Picnicking in Joshua Tree National Park

When visiting Joshua Tree National Park, visitors will enjoy picnicking in the many scenic areas, including the Lost Horse Mine, the Barker Dam, and the Indian Canyon. Visitors can enjoy the views and the quiet atmosphere while taking in the natural beauty of Joshua Tree.

5. Camping in Joshua Tree National Park

A visitor's experience when camping in Joshua Tree National Park would be enjoying the natural beauty of the park while spending some time outdoors. Campsites would be available with fire rings and tents, and there would be opportunities for hiking, biking, and other activities. Visitors would likely be able to see different types of wildlife while camping in Joshua Tree National Park.

6. Stargazing in Joshua Tree National Park

When visitors Stargaze in Joshua Tree National Park, they will likely feel an overwhelming sense of awe. The dark sky and star-filled sky will make them feel like they are a part of something much bigger than themselves. The vastness of the desert sky will leave them feeling small in comparison.

7. Visiting the Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center

When someone visits the Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center, they are likely to feel excited and inspired. The center is filled with interesting exhibits and informational materials, and the staff is knowledgeable and welcoming. Visitors can also explore the center's many exhibits, including a gallery about the park's history and a exhibit about the plants and animals found in the park.

8. Exploring the Oasis of Mara

A visitor's experience when they explore the Oasis of Mara in Joshua Tree is filled with awe and wonder. The stark beauty of the desert landscape is juxtaposed with the lush oasis, providing a striking contrast that is both visually and emotionally arresting. The abundance of wildlife, from bighorn sheep to desert tortoises, is a testament to the natural resources available in this area. The oasis is also a popular destination for hiking and biking, providing visitors with a variety of opportunities to explore its depths and surroundings.

9. Checking out the Integratron

The Integratron is a beautiful piece of architecture. It is a bit out of the way, but worth the drive. The staff was friendly and welcoming. The experience of checking out the Integratron was enjoyable.

10. Taking a scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park

When a visitor takes a scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park, they will experience a beautiful landscape with lots of amazing trees. The drive will take them through different parts of the park, and they will be able to see different types of wildlife.

11. Joshua Tree National Park

A visitor's experience when they visit Joshua Tree National Park is one of awe. The park is full of incredibly beautiful and unique scenery, and the surrounding communities are full of friendly people who love to share their culture and traditions with visitors.

12. Barker Dam

When a visitor visits Barker Dam in Joshua Tree National Park, they are likely to feel awe at the natural beauty of the area. The dam is a beautiful sight, and the surrounding landscape is full of interesting rock formations and plant life. The area is also popular for hiking, and visitors can explore the dam or hike along the trails that lead to it.

13. Hidden Valley

Hidden Valley is a quiet oasis that is perfect for a day of relaxation. The visitors will feel the tranquility in the air as they walk through the park. The views are stunning, and the natural beauty is unparalleled.

14. Keys View

When someone visits the Keys View in Joshua Tree National Park, they are likely to be awestruck by the panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The natural stone steps provide a precarious yet thrilling way to experience the views, and the park staff are always on hand to answer any questions.

15. Skull Rock

When a visitor visits Skull Rock, they may feel a sense of awe and wonder. The rock formations and the desert landscape are beautiful and the skull rock itself is a impressive site.