When it comes to things to do in Joshua Tree, there is no shortage of options. Whether you’re looking to explore the great California desert, immerse yourself in unique art, or spend days eating and drinking, Joshua Tree truly has it all.
We’ve rounded up the 21 absolute best things to do in Joshua Tree for this visit or your next one. Be sure to keep reading to discover everything this incredible area has to offer!
21 Amazing Things to Do in Joshua Tree
1. Hidden Valley Nature Trail
When it comes to the best things to do in Joshua Tree, the Hidden Valley Nature Trail takes the cake. Hidden Valley shows off the best of Joshua Tree along an easy one-mile loop trail. The track follows a dirt and rock trail surrounded by huge granite formations, with signs along the way to help you understand what you’re looking at.
It’s pretty flat most of the journey, with steady inclines and boulders on all sides. The vegetation is unique and has some remnants from when this area was used for cattle ranching, but today it’s mostly pinyon pines and cactus varieties. In addition to the plants, you’ll likely spot rock climbers making good use of the abundant boulders and cliffs in the valley.
2. Arch Rock
Arch Rock is one of the quintessential things to do in Joshua Tree. This natural arch is a true wonder – an impressive granite formation tucked away in the middle of the desert. It’s quite accessible, only a quick 0.3-mile loop from the White Tank Campground. Otherwise, it can also be reached from the Pinto Basin Road trailhead, along a 1.3-mile lollipop track.
3. Barker Dam
Another easily accessible point in Joshua Tree National Park, Barker Dam, is a popular destination for day hikers. It’s a flat mile loop and winds through scenic Joshua Tree landscapes before arriving at the historic dam that encapsulates desert ranching. There are small exhibits along the track that explain Barker Dam’s past, along with rock art pieces to illustrate the area’s story.
Thanks to the oasis-like atmosphere, Barker Dam is a great place for bird and wildlife watching if you’re an animal fan looking for things to do in Joshua Tree. But remember that it’s completely exposed with no shade, so bring plenty of water and a sunhat.
4. Go Camping
Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Joshua Tree is to go camping. There’s no better way to experience the area and the national park – soak in the desert wilderness and sleep under the expansive night sky.
There are lots of camping options in Joshua Tree, but it’s best to have a campervan and RV, which allows you to enjoy Joshua Tree year-round in comfort.
Some of the best campgrounds include:
- Hidden Valley Campground
- White Tank Campground
- Indian Cove Campground
- Cottonwood Campground Joshua Tree
Check out our Joshua Tree campervan rentals and make a trip out of it!
5. Coachella Valley Vista Point
Soak in epic views from the Coachella Valley Vista Point. Located on the side of Highway 74, this scenic stop offers sprawling vistas of the valley below. You’ll be able to bask in the sights of the Palm Desert and Santa Rosa Mountains, giving a true lay of the land from this aerial point of view.
If you’re looking for more things to do in Joshua Tree, there’s also a Coachella Valley History Museum that details the past of this part of California (pre-music festival days).
6. Keys View
Keys View is one of the most iconic things to do in Joshua Tree because it’s actually the highest point around. This means views unlike anywhere else in the area, and it’s definitely the best place to watch the sunset in Joshua Tree. You’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault, and even the Salton Sea on a clear day.
There’s a parking lot just below the lookout, and you can find the viewpoint up the short but steep path.
7. Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum
This funky outdoor art museum is a fun place to spend an afternoon in Joshua Tree. Artist Noah Purifoy created it in the late ‘80s, using scrap materials to form sculptures in the desert. The area is teeming with interesting structures to look at, with lots of cool photo opportunities, too. It’s definitely worth visiting if you’re an art lover or hoping for a break from the Joshua Tree trails.
The museum also includes Purifoy’s late home and studio, open to visitors. Spend the afternoon admiring the unique works of art while wandering around the captivating desert landscape.
8. World Famous Crochet Museum
Another eclectic spot to visit, the World Famous Crochet Museum is certainly among the most unique things to do in Joshua Tree. It’s run by a woman named Shari, who lovingly collects crochet animals, which are curated within the small green museum by an alligator named Bunny.
It’s as weird as it sounds, which is why it’s well worth the visit. Plus, the desert surroundings make it that much more interesting because where else are you going to find stuffed animals in such a remote location? Besides the crochet, there are other funky creations and pretty insane pieces of artwork.
9. Split Rock Loop Trail
Break away from the crowds at the Split Rock Loop Trail. This is one of the best Joshua Tree hikes because it has all of the scenery without the people. Wander among massive rock formations, find shade under Joshua Trees, and soak in the glorious views, especially at sunset when the sky puts on a real show.
It’s about a two-mile loop and can be accessed from the North or West entrance of the park. It’s right off Park Boulevard and has its own parking area. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and a camera!
10. Skull Rock
One of the top attractions in Joshua Tree National Park, Skull Rock is an amazing granite formation that’s the result of years and years of erosion. Over time, rainwater has pooled up in certain spots on this massive rock, creating skull-like impressions and a captivating sight in the middle of the desert.
There’s parking available across from the rock, but it’s also accessible via a short hike from the Jumbo Rocks Campground. It’s a nearly two-mile loop with a minimal elevation gain that takes visitors through stunning desert vegetation with informative signposts, finishing at the famous Skull Rock.
11. Boy Scout Trail
The Boy Scout Trail is one of the best Joshua Tree hikes if you’re looking for a longer, more challenging day. It starts from the West entrance and travels through the Mojave Desert deep into the park, over 8 miles (one-way) of rocky terrain. Hike it out and back if you dare, or arrange for transport on the other side to drop you back at your starting point.
The Boy Scout Trail is lined with intriguing desert vegetation and wildlife, with plenty of spots for rock climbing and birding. It travels through the Wonderland of Rocks area of Joshua Tree National Park before descending through a canyon to Indian Cove.
If you choose to hike this amazing trail, bring plenty of water and sun protection.
12. Cottonwood Spring
One of the most well-known oases in Joshua Tree, Cottonwood Spring is a great place to experience the best of the desert. Instead of dry and arid, the whole area is lush, with unique plants and wildlife. The spring came to be thanks to earthquake activity and was used by Cahuilla Indians and gold miners throughout history.
A lot of Joshua Tree trails start from Cottonwood Spring. Enjoy the three-mile Mastodon Peak loop trail with stunning views and plenty of mining and milling history. Or go further afield and see the largest stand palms in Joshua Tree along the Lost Palms Oasis Trail (8 miles).
13. Bombay Beach Ruins
When it comes to things to do in Joshua Tree, the Bombay Beach Ruins are among the strangest. Lining the shores of the Salton Sea, this area was once bustling in the 1940s and 50s. Though when salt levels rose, the birds and fish migrated, along with the human population, leaving behind ruins of a beach town that once was.
You can find all sorts of funky ruins at Bombay Beach, like decrepit houses, abandoned mobile homes, strewn furnishings, and eaten-up boats. It definitely feels a bit apocalyptic, making it an intriguing photo spot.
14. Glass Outhouse Art Gallery
Joshua Tree really has a thing for outdoor art, and the Glass Outhouse is one of the best places to experience it. This is among the top things to do in Joshua Tree if you’re after off-the-beaten-path adventures. It sits in Twentynine Palms, close to the entrance of the national park, and has been around since 2009.
Here you’ll find one-of-a-kind displays across the large property, made from all sorts of different materials and lots of recycled junk. And you can’t forget about the teeny tiny church open to visit 24/7 (you can even get married here for free!), alongside the cemetery home to the world’s evils like greed, hate, and war. Before leaving, stop for a wee in the namesake glass outhouse, where you can enjoy the views from the john with total privacy thanks to the two-way mirror.
15. Joshua Tree Stargazing
Joshua Tree stargazing is some of the best in the country and even in the entire world. This is one of the best things to do in Joshua Tree after sundown. Cozy up away from the packs of people, spread out a blanket, and keep your eyes out for the Milky Way.
For the optimal Joshua Tree stargazing experience, hit the east side of the park, which is furthest from any major city. Though wherever you are, you’ll be treated to a night sky free from light pollution.
You can go stargazing from a hotel, but it’s best experienced while camping. When you go on a campervan or RV trip to Joshua Tree, the stars are right at your doorstep. They’re so enthralling you may even fall asleep under them.
Click here to see Joshua Tree campervan rentals.
16. Sunnylands Center and Gardens
This historic estate is home to some of the most lovely gardens in Joshua Tree, boasting a diverse horticultural experience. Inspired by impressionist paintings, visit the twin reflecting pools, weave through the labyrinthine paths, and spend a quiet moment in the shade of the large palms. There are more than 70 species that come from all over the world to explore throughout the nine acres of gardens.
Aside from the gardens (which can’t be missed), there’s also the Sunnylands Center, a gorgeous building that pays homage to mid-century modern architecture, with an exhibition space, cafe, and information about the history of this special Joshua Tree area.
17. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Well revered as one of the best zoos in the USA, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is one of the best things to do in Joshua tree, especially if you’re visiting with children. This expansive zoo offers exceptional experiences with local and exotic animals, along with a plethora of events throughout the year.
Get up close and personal with rhinos and giraffes, meet animals from Australia, and even have a swing around the petting zoo to dole out a few scratches. Admission to the zoo includes the Living Desert nature preserve with three gorgeous trails and more wildlife spotting opportunities.
18. La Quinta Museum
Soak in the history of the Joshua Tree area with a visit to the La Quinta Museum. This is one of the best things to do in Joshua Tree if you’re curious about local art and culture. It’s a small place to visit, with only a couple of galleries, but the perfect activity for a (rare) rainy day.
19. Quail Springs Trail
The Quail Springs Trail is one of the best places to experience Joshua Tree’s desert scenery. The three-mile track climbs through fascinating rock formations with lots of places for bouldering and even a picnic area. It’s in a more remote area, so you’ll likely have the trail to yourself, which is ideal if you’re hoping to escape the weekend crowds at the park.
You’ll find the trailhead off Park Boulevard across from the Boy Scout Trailhead.
20. BBQ at Pappy & Harriets
It wouldn’t be a trip to Joshua Tree without a fat barbeque meal at Pappy & Harriets. This local institution cooks up food to order, which means longer wait times but unparalleled grub. If you don’t feel like BBQ, they also make some killer Tex-Mex, so be prepared to settle in, enjoy a couple of drinks, and listen to the live musicians putting on a show.
21. Birding in Joshua Tree
Don’t forget to pack your binoculars because one of the best things to do in Joshua Tree is birdwatching. There are so many places for insane birding, it’s no wonder why people travel from far and wide to get a peek of one-of-a-kind desert species.
You can go birding pretty much anywhere in the park, but the best sites are nearby oases like Cottonwood Spring, Oasis of Mara, and even the Barker Dam.
Joshua Tree Campervan Rental
To make the most out of your trip, consider a Joshua Tree campervan rental. This is one of the best things to do in Joshua Tree in and of itself, as it allows you to sleep under the stars, camp out in the desert wilderness, and travel off the beaten path at your own pace.
TB Outdoor Rentals offers high-quality campervan and RV rentals to help you experience the best of the Joshua Tree and beyond. Click here to see our rigs and prepare yourself for the vacation of a lifetime.
