The sky above Joshua Tree
One of the darker skies in the park system, which makes it a genuine stargazing destination. Leonids 2026 peaks November 17, 2026, ~15/hr; occasional outbursts.
Plan a trip around Leonids 2026 →When to go
Days are typically clear with less than 25% humidity. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average highs around 85°F (29°C) and average lows around 50°F (10°C) respectively. Winter brings cooler days, around 60°F (15°C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are hot, over 100°F (38°C) during the day and not cooling much below 75°F (24°C) at night.
Know before you go
Campgrounds
In and around Joshua Tree, reservable sites first.
- Black Rock CampgroundReservableBook on Recreation.gov →
- Black Rock Equestrian CampgroundReservableBook on Recreation.gov →
- Cottonwood Campground (ca)ReservableBook on Recreation.gov →
- Cottonwood GroupReservableBook on Recreation.gov →
- Indian Cove CampgroundReservableBook on Recreation.gov →
- Indian Cove GroupReservableBook on Recreation.gov →
- Jumbo Rocks CampgroundReservableBook on Recreation.gov →
- Ryan CampgroundReservableBook on Recreation.gov →
- Sheep Pass GroupReservableBook on Recreation.gov →

