Joshua Tree
January 2, 2016 1 Comment
Get outside! Camping and Hiking
Deciding to camp in Joshua tree in late December was a tough one. The park is beautiful, but the temperatures drop below freezing regularly, and you might only see highs of in the 40’s. Having an adventurous side has its perks, so off we went. There are lot’s of camping sites in the park itself. White Tanks was one of my favorite and the most beautiful. The campsites inside the park have no access to water, but do (most) have bathrooms.
This campsite has access to Arch rock, a pretty short but popular hike. A lot of rock climbing to do around here.
Another great campsite is Jumbo Rock. A well organized, great place for scrambling, a perfect place to camp.
Skull rock is right next to this campsite, and you could either walk to it, or drive as it’s located right off the road. A unique pattern of wind and water erosion has lead this rock to look like a human skull.
There are also campsites outside of the park, for those who didn’t book far enough ahead of time, or if you like knowing there is comfort of food and grocery stores 5 miles away. We stayed at Black Rock Campground, near Yucca Valley, which 20 miles north of I10 on the 62. This really was a beautiful campground, well maintained, a couple potholes, but most have been paved over since the reviews I have read.
With easy access to town, and firewood (and trust me, when camping in December in Joshua Tree, you will need A LOT), this was the perfect campsite.
If you are looking to camp in Joshua Tree in the winter, pack warm clothes, the wind will make it feel colder than it reads, make sure you bring enough water into the park, and bring a camera, there are quite a bit of stars to see out there! 🙂
It also doesn’t hurt to have a guide.
shwayze23 