Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is unlike anywhere else on the planet. The park's signature trees, massive boulders, and surrounding mountains create a surreal landscape that feels like it belongs in another world. Camping here is nothing less than spectacular, with scenic campgrounds spread around massive rock formations and sites just perfect for pitching a tent or setting up an RV. However, keep in mind that the facilities are very basic, with no power, water, or other common amenities. When you need to go, expect to use pit/vault toilets.

It's difficult to say one campground is significantly better than another, and deciding where to camp in Joshua Tree often comes down to where you want to be in the park and what is available when you arrive. Park Boulevard is the main road that runs through the park from east to west, and it is here that many of the most popular hikes and sites can be found. Some campgrounds are located along this corridor, and others are nearby. This is, by far, the best place to camp in Joshua Tree National Park.

Along Park Boulevard, Hidden Valley, Ryan, and Jumbo Rocks are the three campgrounds most central to the main tourist attractions, and all offer outstanding scenery. Belle and White Tank campgrounds are on the east side of the park and are slightly more removed but have equally stunning settings and beautiful sites. Indian Cove is a nice campground set amid boulders, but it is off the main roads running through the park and will require commuting and possibly a wait at the entrance station to get into the main section of the park.

• Area: 3.218 km²
• Webiste: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/
• Google Rating: 4.8/5.0
• Location: California