Camping and Picnic Sites

Joshua Tree National Park offers diverse camping and picnic facilities across varying elevations and desert ecosystems. Sites like Black Rock and Cottonwood provide essential amenities including flush toilets and water, while primitive locations such as Indian Cove and White Tank are situated directly among the park's iconic granite rock formations. These areas provide direct access to key landmarks like Arch Rock and hiking trails through Mojave and Colorado Desert landscapes, with facilities ranging from individual tent sites to dedicated group areas at Sheep Pass.

Black Rock Campground

Located in the northwest corner of the park at 4,000 feet elevation. Features 99 campsites equipped with water, flush toilets, and a dump station.

Cottonwood Campground

Situated in the southeast region near the Cottonwood Visitor Center. Includes 62 sites with access to water, flush toilets, and a sanitary dump station.

Indian Cove Campground

Contains 101 sites nestled among massive granite monoliths on the north side of the park. No water is available on-site; visitors must bring their own.

Sheep Pass Campground

A group-only campground with six sites centrally located near Ryan Mountain. This facility does not provide water or dump stations.

White Tank Campground

A small campground with 15 sites located near the Arch Rock nature trail. Surrounded by granite boulders with no water available on-site.

Belle Campground

High-elevation campground at 3,800 feet featuring 18 sites and pit toilets. Surrounded by large rock formations with no water supply.

Live Oak Picnic Area

Day-use area featuring picnic tables and grills positioned among large boulders. Located near the Jumbo Rocks area for daytime desert access.