Dispersed Camping Guide for Joshua Tree National Park and Surrounding Areas

Joshua Tree National Park, with its vast wilderness areas and nearby Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a more remote camping experience.

However, dispersed camping in this delicate desert environment requires careful planning and an understanding of the regulations. This guide provides the essential information for camping responsibly, both within Joshua Tree and in nearby BLM-managed lands.

Backpacking in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park’s backcountry offers ample opportunities to connect with nature in solitude for those seeking a deep wilderness experience.

Dispersed camping is allowed within designated zones only to protect the park’s natural beauty. Campers must avoid trailheads, roadsides, and day-use areas and set up camp at least one mile from any trailhead, half a mile from any road, and 200 feet from established trails.

Backpacking in Joshua Tree is for those well-prepared with the necessary skills and gear; it’s not meant as a substitute for campers who could not find a site in a campground.

Overnight camping in the backcountry requires a permit. This permit allows up to 12 people to camp for up to 14 nights, with a maximum of three consecutive nights allowed within any single camping zone.

Permits can be booked up to six months in advance and are available through Recreation.gov, by calling the reservation line, or by visiting the permit office at the park headquarters in Twentynine Palms.

This office, open daily from 8 am to 4 pm, is located at 74485 National Park Drive, Building 100, near the flagpole. Note that permits must specify a camping zone, and those wishing to camp in the high-use Boy Scout zone are restricted to 14 designated campsites.

Parking for overnight backpackers is allowed only at designated backcountry trailheads or outside the park’s boundaries. Cars parked in day-use areas or along the roadside are subject to fines and possible towing. Campers are encouraged to carpool to reduce congestion at trailhead parking areas.

Dispersed Camping on BLM Land Outside of Joshua Tree

For those seeking dispersed camping outside the park, nearby BLM lands north and south of Joshua Tree National Park allow camping in designated areas. These lands provide another option for remote camping, but come with their own rules and lack of amenities.

There are no developed facilities in BLM dispersed camping areas; campers must bring everything they need, including water, and pack out all trash. The desert vegetation is protected, so disturbing or removing plants, even dead ones, is prohibited. Campfires are allowed with a permit, which can be obtained from local BLM offices.

Dispersed camping is permitted on specific BLM lands north of Joshua Tree between the West and North Entrances of the park, as well as to the south. To ensure you’re camping legally, follow the BLM maps and stay within designated areas.

BLM rules require that campsites are at least 300 feet away from any roadway and outside any area marked as closed to camping. Additionally, campers should be aware that the areas are bordered by private land, where camping is not allowed.

Final Tips

Before setting out, check the BLM maps, carry a reliable GPS, and confirm your camping zone. Observing Leave No Trace principles is crucial in these fragile desert landscapes. This includes packing out all trash, minimizing your environmental impact, and respecting the delicate ecosystems around you.

Desert camping also demands careful preparation for extreme temperatures, with scorching days and chilly nights, so pack appropriate clothing and sufficient water for your stay. I recommend avoiding the hot months in the summer.

You can reach the Joshua Tree Permit Office at 760-367-5554 for further information or questions. Permits for camping in Joshua Tree can be booked on Recreation.gov, and detailed information about dispersed camping on BLM lands is available on the BLM California website.