Joshua Tree National Park is named for its defining natural feature – the iconic Joshua Trees. These plants are unique for their unusual appearance and only thrive in the Mojave Desert. Its scenery also comprises rugged peaks, unique rock formations, and a fascinating variety of flora and fauna. Thanks to the blooming wildflowers, the park turns into a photographer’s wonderland in spring. The park offers endless options for outdoor fun during the season, from hiking to camping. Discover the best things to do in Joshua Tree National Park in spring.
Discover Exhibits at the Visitor Center – Twentynine Palms
Located in downtown Twentynine Palms, the Visitor Center is a perfect starting point for Joshua Tree National Park adventures. It’s known for its rotating exhibits, which give an incredible insight into the park’s natural and cultural history. One of the top features of the facility is the “Neighbors in Nature II,” which allows you to access the park’s information via maps and brochures.
Explore Cap Rock Trail
Cap Rock Trail is a fun family outdoor adventure and the perfect introduction to Joshua Tree National Park’s surreal landscape. A portion of Hidden Valley, the 0.4-mile trail winds through beautiful granite boulders with plenty of opportunities for rock-scrambling. Joshua trees and desert wildlife like the Mojave Desert Tortoise are among the things you’ll encounter along the hike.
Discover the Springtime Scenery of Cottonwood Spring
Joshua Tree is home to five Palm Oases, and Cottonwood Spring is one of them. Home to unique flora and fauna, it’s among the park’s most beautiful hidden gems. It’s only a short distance from the South Entrance, reachable via a short, easy trail. Since the spring is a vital watering hole for the park’s desert animals, the hike also presents peaceful wildlife spotting opportunities.
Admire Scenic Vistas Along Desert Queen Mine Trail
Desert Queen Mine Trail takes you to the historic Desert Queen Mine ruins from the 1890s. The mine is one of Twentynine Palms’ top historical attractions, offering a brilliant walk into California’s mining past. Along the trail are spectacular rock formations, desert views, and wildflower blooms in spring. You may also spot some desert wildlife roaming around.
Enjoy Camping at White Tank Campground
Joshua Tree National Park has multiple camping spots, but White Tank Campground stands out for its peaceful experience. Unlike popular campgrounds, it’s home to only 15 campsites, allowing you a more intimate camping adventure. Its location amidst granite boulders also makes it great for rock-scrambling lovers.
Hike Arch Rock Nature Trail
Arch Rock Nature Trail is one of the best things to do in Joshua Tree National Park in spring. The trail winds through a series of breathtaking rock formations, with the Arch Rock being the showstopper. The easy, well-marked trail is popular with photographers and families. You can detour to Heart Rock, another unique granite with a heart shape.
Hike Split Rock Trail
Split Rock Trail offers some of Joshua Tree’s best scenery. It meanders through incredibly impressive and bizarre rock formations; you can detour to Face Rock, a rock resembling a face. You’ll encounter numerous yucca trees along the 2.5-mile loop. You’ll enjoy the desert blooms in spring and maybe see some wild creatures.
Hike Barker Dam Nature Trail
Located near Twentynine Palms, Barker Dam is a gorgeous 1.3-mile loop trail with diverse scenery. Within the easy, short hike, you’ll witness some of the park’s most spectacular desert views while meandering through granite boulders and Joshua trees before ending at a historic dam. You can also see snow-capped peaks from a distance.
Hike to Oasis of Mara
Oasis of Mara is one of the prettiest highlights of this California desert park. The oasis is known for its alkaline conditions, allowing certain plants and animals, distinct from the rest in the park, to thrive. Its most defining feature is the fan palms, which create a striking contrast to the desert terrain. The route to the oasis is an easy loop, stretching half a mile.
Camping at Indian Cove is a Must-Do
Unlike other Joshua Tree National Park campgrounds, Indian Cove remains open year-round, and spring is a great time to stick around. Its scenic location in the heart of the park’s most striking rock formations makes it a perfect option for rock-climbing enthusiasts. It’s the best campsite for privacy, as numerous campsites are nestled around the towering rocks.
Hike Rattlesnake Canyon
Rattlesnake Canyon Loop, a portion of “Wonderland of Rocks,” is one of the most beautiful areas in the park. The hike is more stunning when temperatures are cooler and water flows through the gorge, guaranteeing a refreshing adventure. The trail, which begins at Indian Cove Trailhead near Twentynine Palms, is challenging but rewarding, thanks to beautiful scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Experience Joshua Tree’s Desert Beauty along Skull Rock Hike
Skull Rock is another prominent feature of Joshua Tree that you don’t want to miss in spring. Right off the park’s main road, the skull-shaped rock formation is reachable via an easy, family-friendly trail with interpretive signs, which are interesting to read. You’ll also find numerous trees along the trail.
Discover Cholla Cactus Garden
Cholla Cactus Garden’s unique and picturesque landscape is worth exploring during a Joshua Tree National Park trip. The cacti are more breathtaking at sunset or the golden hour; photographers love it there. In spring, you’ll enjoy marveling at the vibrant cholla cacti blooms, making the scenery more spectacular. You can get to the garden via a short, easy hike that anyone can do, regardless of age.
Take a Tour of Keys Ranch
Many would never expect to find a historic homestead right in the heart of this desert park. Keys Ranch, also called Desert Queen Ranch, is a perfect example of the area’s early settlement. It was built by William Keys, who relocated to the desert for gold-mine riches. Thanks to his multiple ventures, including mining and ranching, he became a prominent figure. You can learn about this homestead’s rich history on a guided tour of Keys Ranch.
Hike to Lost Palms Oasis
Hiking Lost Palms Oasis Trail is one of the best things to do in Joshua Tree National Park in spring. It’s best known for the numerous large, lush palm trees that thrive there. There is a permanent water source in the oasis that supports these palms, as well as other plants and some wild creatures. Occasionally, you may spot bighorn sheep around there.
