🌵 Getting Around Joshua Tree National Park: Transportation Tips You Need
#transportation
Planning a trip to the surreal desert dreamscape of Joshua Tree? Whether you’re road-tripping or just escaping L.A. for a weekend, here’s how to get around the park without getting lost, stuck, or sunburned 👇
🚗 Driving Yourself (Best Option)
This is a car-required park — no internal shuttles, buses, or ride-shares once you’re in.
✅ You’ll need your own vehicle to explore all the major spots like:
Hidden Valley
Skull Rock
Cholla Cactus Garden
Keys View
🗺️ Bring a physical park map — cell service drops FAST
💡 Pro Tips:
There are three main entrances:
🚪 West Entrance (near Joshua Tree town)
🚪 North Entrance (Twentynine Palms)
🚪 South Entrance (near I-10, more remote)
Use West or North if you’re coming from L.A. or Palm Springs
Fill your gas tank — no fuel inside the park!
🚌 No Shuttle System in the Park
🚫 Unlike some national parks, Joshua Tree doesn’t have a visitor shuttle
🚙 All exploring = on your own wheels
✨ That’s part of the magic — go at your own pace, detour at will
🚐 RV & Campervan Tips
✅ Many roads & campgrounds are RV-accessible
⚠️ But some parking areas are tight (especially at trailheads)
🛻 Stay in: Jumbo Rocks, Belle, or Cottonwood campgrounds (book early!)
💧 No water hookups — fill up before entering
🚲 Biking Joshua Tree? Possible, But Tough
🚴♂️ You can ride bikes on roads, but not on hiking trails
🥵 Be cautious — no shade, no water, and temps can spike
🧃 Only for experienced desert riders with full gear & planning
🧭 Extra Smart Tips
✅ Download offline maps before you enter
✅ No food or water for sale in the park — pack plenty!
✅ Don’t rely on Uber/Lyft — no pickups once you’re inside
✅ Parking lots fill quickly — go early morning or late afternoon for best access
✅ Stay in Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, or Twentynine Palms for quick entry