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Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua trees in Joshua Tree National Park, one of the national parks in California

Joshua Tree National Park is located in southeastern California. It’s one of the busiest national parks in America with over 3 million visitors in 2019. The park is known for its Joshua trees, shooting up from the ground with spike-covered branches in all directions. Furthermore, it’s a world-renowned rock climbing destination. Climbers from around the globe flock here to climb the granite rock formations and boulders. Visit to see where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts collide.

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Joshua Tree National Park Information

Park Size: 790,636 acres

Established: August 10, 1936 (as Joshua Tree National Monument)

Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, $15 per bicyclist or pedestrian (valid for 7 days)

Nearby Communities: Twenty-nine Palms, Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, Palm Desert

Visitor Centers: Joshua Tree Visitor Center (western entrance), Oasis Visitor Center (eastern entrance), Cottonwood Springs Visitor Center (southern entrance)

Campgrounds: Belle, Black Rock, Cottonwood, Hidden Valley, Indian Cove, Jumbo Rocks, Ryan, White Tank

How to Get There: Joshua Tree National Park is located between Interstate 10 and Highway 62 in Southern California.

Best Time to Visit: The winter season is the best time to go to avoid the hottest season in the desert. This is also when you’ll find the most crowds.

Unique Things to Do: Visit Keys View, Hidden Valley, and the Cholla Cactus Garden to see the best of Joshua Tree.

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