Where Do You Park to Stargaze Joshua Tree?

Stargazing is one of the most enchanting and relaxing activities a person can experience. Doing it in Joshua Tree is a special kind of magic because it’s known for its clear night skies, making it one of the top stargazing destinations in the world. So where do you park to fully appreciate the mesmerizing beauty of the universe above? In this blog post, we’ll cover all the essential information you need to know about parking for stargazing in Joshua Tree.

1. Camping Sites: The most natural way to enjoy the park’s night sky is by camping in the designated campsite. Camping inside the twelve campgrounds in Joshua Tree is a fun way to be amidst the nighttime essence of the park. You may choose to camp anywhere in the campsite, or drive on some campsites to park your car and set up your gear. Also, it’s important to make reservations in advance with the park’s reservation system. Note that the campsite can only accommodate small RVs, so it’s wise to check in advance whether your vehicle will be allowed in the campground.
2. Trailheads: Joshua Tree’s national park has plenty of trailheads, and some of them might be excellent to stargaze. All the trails in the park have parking lots for hikers who want to explore the surrounding area. We recommend the Lost Palms Oasis, Boy Scout Trailhead, Ryan Mountain Trailhead, and Barker Dam Trailhead. These trailheads offer excellent parking options near the natural landscape for stargazers.
3. Keys View: Keys View is famous for its panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and the San Andreas Fault. All you need to do is drive to the Keys View viewpoint, and you’ll get one of the most spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the stars. Although it’s recommended to carry a flashlight, it may take up to 20-30 minutes for your eyes to adjust completely to the darkness. The parking lot is spacious and lighted, so it’s safe to park your car here overnight.
4. BLM Land: There’s plenty of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in and around Joshua Tree. Therefore, accessing these areas will provide stargazers with the option of parking their car anywhere they desire. Although it’s crucial to first check the BLM’s website for access and camping regulations, some areas may be inaccessible because of private property or unpaved paths.
5. Cholla Cactus Garden: This is another excellent site to observe the world above. The Cholla Cactus Garden picnic area is located near the cactus garden entrance, where you can park and start viewing the cosmos with an unobstructed view. However, note that this parking site is also limited, and during peak hours, the parking lot may even be closed.

To stargaze in Joshua Tree, there are several parking options to choose from, including campsites, trailheads, Keys View, BLM land, and the Cholla Cactus Garden. Make sure to plan ahead (best time to see the Milky Way), bring warm clothing and equipment, and pack plenty of food and drinks. The park is ready to welcome you to a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the night sky!