Southern California Desert Parks Introduce Camping Reservations and Higher Fees

Visitors to Southern California’s desert parks should prepare for changes as Joshua Tree National Park and Mojave National Preserve roll out new reservation requirements and increased fees to address growing visitation and improve facilities.

Joshua Tree National Park Fee Increases

Starting December 1, Joshua Tree National Park will implement higher fees for park entry, camping reservations, and the popular Keys Ranch tour. Entrance fees will double, with general admission rising from $10 to $20 and senior admission from $5 to $10.

Campground fees will see significant increases as well, jumping from $20-$50 per night to $35-$55, while first-come, first-served campgrounds will increase from $15 to $25 per night beginning January 1. The cost of the Keys Ranch tour will also rise, ranging from $10-$20.

The park cites these changes as necessary to manage the surge in visitors over the past five years. Most of the revenue from these fees will go toward maintaining public facilities, such as campgrounds, and supporting visitor services.

Mojave National Preserve Adds Camping Fees and Reservation System

In Mojave National Preserve, starting January 1, 2025, visitors will encounter new camping fees and a reservation system managed through Recreation.gov. Reservations will be required for select campgrounds, including Hole-in-the-Wall and Mid Hills, and can be made up to six months in advance or on the same day.

The new nightly fees will be:

• Hole-in-the-Wall Campground: $25
• Mid Hills Campground: $20
• Black Canyon Group and Equestrian Campground: $50

Funds generated from these fees will support critical improvements, such as ADA-compliant upgrades at Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center and Campground, replacement of deteriorating picnic tables, and installation of new vault toilets.

Managing Popularity and Enhancing Visitor Experience

Both parks attribute these changes to increasing visitor numbers, which have put a strain on resources and facilities. The additional revenue aims to ensure a high-quality experience for visitors while addressing essential maintenance and infrastructure needs.

For those planning trips to these iconic desert landscapes, early reservations are advised to secure campsites and prepare for the adjusted fees.