Phoenix to Joshua Tree National Forest
From the Valley to starry nights of Joshua Tree
Recommended Stay: 2 to 4 days
Distance from Phoenix Wandervans: about 299 miles and about ~4 hours away from Phoenix
Great to Visit: October-May, avoid during June and august due to uncomfortable desert temps
Why this trip
Amazing winter retreat without snow. For when you need a quick getaway from the hustle bustle of the city to the starry nights of desert. Best times to visit in the winter because it can reach over 100 degrees in the summer.
Joshua Tree National Park
Step into a Dr. Seuss-like world, dotted with 150-year-old succulents known as “Desert Daggers” (Spanish: izote de desierto) or Joshua trees. Highly recommend the Jumbo Rocks campground for location and massive volcanic rocks, which creates a uniquely private camping experience. Sunset and sunlight paint the rocks with unique pastel hues, further accented by campfire at night. Vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pits & BBQs--all perfectly surrounded by these massive volcanic rocks make this a dream camping experience.
Plan to experience somewhat chilly night spent around the firepit with good food, laughs…and even galaxies away twinkling stars that ignite imagination like never before! Visitors should not expect cell reception in this oasis but can find nearby locations with reception. Wandervan camper vans are an easy and fast fit into a variety of campsites. Recommend keeping the heater running in winter to have a warm van to come back to after catching a spectacular view of the Milky Way and shooting stars.
Driving Suggestions
Take 6-mile side drive to Keys View overlook which is well worth it. There is .2-mile loop trail up the ridge for nice views. Your views include the San Andreas Fault, Salton Sea on the far left and on a really clear day you might be able to ragged mountain peaks of Signal mountain in northern Mexico.
Other sites
Pioneer Town - Food, old Hollywood sets- About ~30 mins
Palm Springs - Larger city with galleries, shops and restaurants ~about 1 hour
Camping
Operating Hours & Seasons
The park is always open and may be visited anytime of year. Visitation increases as temperatures moderate in the fall, peaks during the spring, and decreases during the heat of summer.