Given its wide variety of eclectic lodging options, planning where to stay in Joshua Tree is an important feature of any visit. With so many hip hotels, trendy house rentals, quirky cabins and boulder-strewn campgrounds in the area, visitors certainly aren’t pressed for choice. If anything, the challenge lies in narrowing down accommodation options, rather than sourcing them – and fortunately, that’s where we come in.
In this guide, we’ve compiled 25 of our favorite places to stay in and near Joshua Tree, which is easily one of California’s most unique and rugged landscapes. The national park is also the perfect addition to a broader California National Park Road Trip Itinerary.
PLACES TO STAY IN JOSHUA TREE
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- Joshua Tree Lodging and Hotels
- Joshua Tree House Rentals, Cabins and Airbnbs
- Joshua Tree National Park Campgrounds
- Palm Springs Day Trip and Lodging Options
JOSHUA TREE LODGING AND HOTELS
Sacred Sands ($$$$)
Rated 9.9 out of 10 on Booking.com
Situated just one mile from the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, this boho chic oasis oozes desert luxury like no other. An architectural icon of the area, the property features just two intimate rooms that are each equipped with a California king bed, rain shower, outdoor soaking tub, meditation platform and open air mattress so you can fall asleep beneath the stars. Needless to say, if you’re planning a romantic breakaway this place ticks all of the boxes and then some.
Rooms start at $330 per night. Find the latest deals now.
The Castle House Estate ($$)
Rated 8.4 out of 10 on Booking.com
Luxury tent, container home or guard tower? Take your pick, as Castle House Estate features all three forms of tiny living! Featured on HGTV, this property is minutes away from the national park entrance and offers guests outdoor showers, vegan toiletries, plush linens and premier stargazing opportunities. Each unit seamlessly blends indoor-outdoor living and makes for the perfect escape from everyday life.
Units start at $110 per night. Find the best deals now.
Pioneertown Motel ($$-$$$)
Rated 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com
While not located within Joshua Tree itself, this iconic motel is nestled within Pioneertown, a famous Old West movie set that was founded by Roy Rogers, Gene Autry and other Hollywood legends. Just a 15 minute drive from downtown Joshua Tree, it’s one of the top things to do in the region outside of the national park itself. Each motel room features a private bathroom, desk, AC and free WiFi, and rumor has it that Gene Autry played poker until sunrise in Room #9.
Rooms start at $175 per night. Find the best deals now.
Joshua Tree Ranch House ($$)
Rated 9.0 out of 10 on Booking.com
Situated within walking distance of the Joshua Tree Visitor Center, this rustic motel offers basic, yet comfortable accommodation with an outdoor pool and garden. The motel also happens to be pet-friendly, making it a great option for visitors with furry friends. Each room includes AC and free WiFi, and certain units include a kitchenette and fridge. For those interested in hiking, Joshua Tree Ranch House is just 4 miles from Lower Covington Flat and 9 miles from the Maze Loop Trail.
Rooms start at $130 per night. Find the latest deals now.
Fairfield Inn & Suites ($$)
Rated 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com
Highly rated by visitors, Fairfield Inn & Suites is just 4 miles from Joshua Tree and offers nearly any amenity one could think of. Featuring a 24-hour market, laundry and dry cleaning facilities, a gym, a whirlpool and a free continental breakfast for guests, it’s the perfect option for those looking for guaranteed value. Given that each room includes a sofa bed, it’s also a great option for those traveling with children.
Rooms start at $125 per night. Find the best deals now.
Motel 6 ($)
Rated 7.7 out of 10 on Booking.com
One of the most affordable accommodation options near Joshua Tree, Motel 6 offers all the basic amenities needed for a good night’s sleep. 5 miles from the park entrance, this motel is also pet friendly and includes free WiFi.
Rooms start at $50 per night. Find the latest deals now.
HOUSES FOR RENT IN JOSHUA TREE
Eclectic Joshua Tree House ($-$$)
Rated 9.8 out of 10 on Booking.com
This modern 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom rental comfortably sleeps 6 and is one of the top rated home rentals in the area. It’s excellently located just 1.7 miles from the Joshua Tree Visitor Center and comes with AC, WiFi and washing facilities. The backyard serves as an added bonus complete with a bocce ball court and a picnic table that’s perfect for evening stargazing. Best of all, there’s no minimum stay requirement, so you can snag this unit even if you’re only planning to visit for one night!
Rates start at $170 per night for the unit. Check availability now.
Note: Pets not allowed. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
The Habibi House ($-$$)
This minimalist Moroccan-style 3 bedroom home sleeps 6 to 7 and is located just 2 miles from the park entrance. Spend a night by the fire catching up with friends or enjoy a family-style dinner at the large picnic table in the backyard. The house comes with free WiFi, AC, a bar and a garden and is just 10 miles away from the start of the Maze Loop Trail. There’s also no minimum stay, so the unit can be booked for just one night.
Rates start at $190 per night for the home. Check availability now.
Note: Pets not allowed. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
The Joshua Tree House ($$-$$$)
Rated 4.87 out of 5 on Airbnb
One of the most iconic houses in all of Joshua Tree, you may have seen this property pop up in your Instagram feed before. This 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom 1949 hacienda comfortably sleeps 4 and is located only 10 minutes from the west entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. Known for its immaculately hip design and decor, the home also offers guests a hot tub surrounded by over 100 joshua trees, a porch perfect for watching the morning sunrise and a vintage record player to set the mood.
Rates start at $265 per night for the home. Check availability now.
Use this link to get $40 off your first AirBnB booking.
Note: 2 night minimum stay. Pets not allowed. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
The Joshua Tree Casita ($$-$$$)
Rated 4.97 out of 5 on Airbnb
The famous sister to The Joshua Tree House, the Casita shares its owners and is more cozy and secluded than its iconic counterpart. Remotely located, this 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home is situated about 20 minutes from the park’s west entrance, but offers guests a serene escape complete with over 900 acres of protected land, an outdoor hot tub and hammocks in case you need an afternoon nap. If you’re looking to relax and recharge in nature, this is the place to be.
Rates start at $225 per night for the home. Check availability now.
Use this link to get $40 off your first AirBnB booking.
Note: 2 night minimum stay. Pets not allowed. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
Bungalow in the Boulders ($$)
Rated 9.3 out of 10 on Booking.com
One of the best sellers in Joshua Tree, Bungalow in the Boulders is located just 3 miles from the park entrance and comfortably sleeps 4. The only pet-friendly rental home included in this list, this quirky and rustic property also features a fully equipped kitchen, patio with a desert view, AC and complimentary WiFi. It’s located just a 12-minute walk from Lower Covington Flat hiking trail.
Rates start at $170 per night for the unit. Check availability now.
Note: 2 night minimum stay. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
The Farmhouse Retreat ($-$$)
Rated 4.94 out of 5 on Airbnb
The perfect kid-friendly option, The Farmhouse Retreat can host up to 10 people and offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a flat-screen TV, dining area, fully equipped kitchen and patio with garden views. This 5 acre property is located 11 miles from the Joshua Tree Visitor Center and even includes a hot tub for a night of soaking after a day of hiking. As an added bonus, this rental doesn’t enforce a minimum night stay.
Rates start at $154 per night for the home. Check availability now.
Use this link to get $40 off your first AirBnB booking.
Note: Pets not allowed. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
The Moon Cabin ($-$$)
Rated 4.98 out of 5 on Airbnb
This 1959 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom homestead has been renovated to include modern amenities and beautiful custom elements throughout the house. Romantically and rustically styled, guests can watch the sunset from porch rocking chairs, stargaze in the hammock, or cozy up by the fireplace surrounded by gorgeous desert views. The Moon Cabin comfortably accommodates 2 guests, but can sleep up to 4 and is located on 2 acres of beautiful land at the base of Bunker Mountain.
Rates start at $135 per night for the home. Check availability now.
Use this link to get $40 off your first AirBnB booking.
Note: 2 night minimum stay. Pets not allowed. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
El Rancho ($$)
Rated 4.95 out of 5 on Airbnb
This 1957 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom desert dwelling is off grid and powered entirely by solar. Accommodating up to 2 guests and featuring an outdoor dining room and fire pit, this slice of paradise embraces slow, intentional living. The owners recommend use of a 4WD vehicle to reach the property. Due to the fact that’s it’s off grid, it’s also important to note that the home is not equipped with AC, making the summer months mighty toasty.
Rates start at $157 per night for the unit. Check availability now.
Use this link to get $40 off your first AirBnB booking.
Note: 2 night minimum stay. Pets not allowed. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
Joshua Tree Acres ($)
Average 5 out of 5 Star Rating on Airbnb
Home to five beautifully renovated airstream trailers, this Insta-famous property offers guests an escape from reality and is situated just outside the Joshua Tree National Park boundary. Featuring a communal space in The Clubhouse complete with restrooms, an outdoor shower, kitchen, hot tub, hammocks, fire pit and more, each unit sleeps two and comes well equipped with AC, linen, towels and a hair dryer. Filtered water is also available at The Clubhouse and there is limited WiFi connectivity.
Rates start between $115 & $140 per night per trailer. Check availability now.
Use this link to get $40 off your first AirBnB booking.
Note: 2 night minimum stay. Certain units unsuitable for children and/or infants. Pets not allowed. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
JT Villager ($)
Rated 4.97 out of 5 on Airbnb
Located in the heart of the town of Joshua Tree, this retro 1 bedroom property was one of the area’s original 1947 homes. JT Villager is just a 10 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park, and is situated within walking distance of coffee and clothing shops, as well as art boutiques. Accommodating up to 2 guests, it features an outdoor hot tub, outdoor bath, fire pit, bocce ball court and laptop-friendly workspace. The unit also comes equipped with AC and WiFi.
Rates start at $150 per night for the home. Check availability now.
Use this link to get $40 off your first AirBnB booking.
Note: 2 night minimum stay. Pets not allowed. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate.
JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK CAMPING
There are nine main campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park, though some are closed during the hot summer season. Many of the campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis throughout much of the year. However, some accept advance reservations during peak season with reservations opening at least six months in advance. October through May is the most popular time to visit, and it’s important to arrive early if you’re hoping to snag a first-come, first-served spot. In the event that you arrive and all sites are occupied, you can try camping outside the park or on BLM land. Just be sure to arrive prepared and always apply Leave No Trace principles.
JOSHUA TREE CAMPGROUNDS
Belle Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #7 of 9 campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park on TripAdvisor
This small 18 site campground is recommended for tent camping, but some spots will accommodate RVs. Complete with picnic tables, fire rings and pit toilets, Belle Campground is perfect for those looking for a more remote and rugged camping experience that provides wonderful stargazing opportunities. Note that this campground does not provide potable water, so remember to bring more than enough of your own.
Reservations: First-Come, First-Served; Closed mid-June through August
Rates: $15 per site per night. Learn more here.
Black Rock Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #3 of 9 campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park on TripAdvisor
Home to 99 campsites, Black Rock Campground is family-friendly and ideal for both seasoned campers and first timers. One of two campgrounds in Joshua Tree offering potable drinking water, the spots here tend to fill up quickly, particularly during high season. Black Rock is also convenient for RVs in that it has a dump station. However, it’s important to note that the campground is currently only accessible to 4WD vehicles.
Reservations: Reservations required from the end of August through early June. Sites 40–60 and 66–99 are closed June 10 through August 29. All other sites are first-come, first-served during this time.
Rates: $20 per site per night. Make a reservation now.
Cottonwood Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #4 of 9 campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park on TripAdvisor
Situated at over 3,000 feet in elevation, Cottonwood is perfect for stargazers and is located right next to the Cottonwood Visitor Center. Ideal for both beginner and experienced campers, this campground is also one of the two campgrounds in the National Park with potable drinking water. It additionally has a dumping facility for RVs.
Reservations: Reservations required from the end of August through early June. Loop B is closed June 10 through August 29. Loop A sites are first-come, first-served during this time.
Rates: $20 per site per night. Make a reservation now.
Hidden Valley Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #5 of 9 campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park on TripAdvisor
Located right off Park Blvd, Hidden Valley offers just 9 campsites, making it one of the more prized campgrounds in the park. It’s also very well located in close proximity to popular trails and climbing sites, but if you camp here it’s important to be prepared as potable water is not available. Furthermore, RVs over 25 feet cannot be accommodated.
Reservations: All sites first-come, first-served year-round
Rates: $15 per site per night. Learn more here.
Indian Cove (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #2 of 9 campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park on TripAdvisor
One of the best campgrounds in all of Joshua Tree, there’s plenty of room here with 91 single campsites and 13 group campsites. A favorite amongst local climbers, Indian Cove offers plenty of climbing opportunities and even features spring blooms, Mojave yuccas, shrubs and desert tortoise in the area. Potable water isn’t available at the campground, but can be found just two miles away at the ranger station.
Reservations: Reservations required from the end of August through early June. Sites 40–101 are closed June 10 through August 29, All other sites are first-come, first-served during this time.
Rates: $20-$50 per site per night. Make a reservation now.
Jumbo Rocks Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #1 of 9 campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park on TripAdvisor
Rated as the best Joshua Tree campground on TripAdvisor, Jumbo Rocks often hits capacity during the cooler months of the year. It’s very family-friendly and offers the most campsites in the area at 124. However, potable water is not offered, so be prepared with plenty of your own, especially during summer.
Reservations: Reservations required from the end of August through early June. All sites are first-come, first-served June 10 through August 29.
Rates: $15 per site per night. Make a reservation now.
Ryan Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #8 of 9 campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park on TripAdvisor
Located smack dab in the middle of the park, Ryan Campground offers 31 campsites as well as easy access to Mt. Ryan and Cap Rock. Each site is equipped with a fire ring and picnic table, and the campground offers pit toilets. However, like many other campgrounds in the area, potable water is not available.
Reservations: Ryan Campground is first-come, first-served, though it’s closed June 10 through August 29 each year.
Rates: $15 per site per night. Learn more here.
White Tank Campground (Tent & RV; No Hookups)
Rated #6 of 9 campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park on TripAdvisor
A smaller campground with just 15 campsites, White Tank Campground is home to plenty of scrambling and bouldering, as well as some of the best stargazing opportunities. Each site offers a fire pit and picnic table, but potable water is not available.
Reservations: First-come, first-served throughout the year, though White Tank Campground is closed June 10 through August 29.
Rates: $15 per site per night. Learn more here.
Sheep Pass Group Campground (Tent Only)
Rated #9 of 9 campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park on TripAdvisor
Sheep Pass Campground is home to just 6 group campsites that each accommodate between 10 and 60 people. It’s well located near plenty of hiking trails and rock climbing routes, and each site comes equipped with a fire pit, BBQ and picnic table. Vault toilets are also available, though potable drinking water is not.
Reservations: Reservations required year-round
Rates: $35-50 per site per night. Make a reservation now.
PALM SPRINGS TO JOSHUA TREE
Joshua Tree is located just an hour’s drive from Palm Springs and many visitors opt to stay in Palm Springs and visit the National Park as part of a day trip rather than overnighting in the park itself. Visiting independently or via a guided tour, it’s still possible to see many of the park’s highlights, though you’ll obviously miss out on some of the longer walks and trails, as well as the stunningly clear night skies.
When visiting for a day, we recommend entering the park via the West Entrance near Joshua Tree Visitor Center. To get here from Palm Springs, follow the CA-62 East all the way to Yucca Valley, keeping right on Yucca Trail Rd and then right again on Quail Springs Rd until reaching Park Blvd. At the end of the day, exit via the South Entrance near Cottonwood Visitor Center and follow the I-10 West back to Palm Springs. This way, you’ll be able to experience both the northern Mojave Desert and southern Colorado Desert in one trip.
HOTELS AND RESORTS IN PALM SPRINGS
- Little Paradise Hotel – Top rated property in Palm Springs with an adult-only pool ($$)
- The Westcott – Boutique hotel with views of the San Jacinto Mountains ($$-$$$)
- Ace Hotel and Swim Club – Formerly neglected motel turned hip hotel ($$-$$$)
- The Saguaro – Insanely instagrammable rooms and epic pool parties ($$-$$$)
HOME AND CONDO RENTALS IN PALM SPRINGS
- Glass and Steel House – Retro 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom luxury home ($$$-$$$$)
- Number 444 – Top rated 2 bedroom vacation rental in the heart of town ($$$)
- Hacienda Salida – Gorgeous 2 bedroom home offering mountain views ($$-$$$)
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*All photos courtesy of the hotel, cabin, booking or information sites.