California · National Park
Joshua Tree entrance and reservations
Checked Oct 26, 2026 · Source: NPS + NOAA
Joshua Tree charges $30 per private vehicle, per the NPS (checked Oct 26, 2026). 6 campgrounds here take reservations. One fee covers everyone in the car, so a party of four pays $7.50 each. The $80 America the Beautiful annual pass pays off after 3 visits at this fee. Fees change, so confirm on the NPS page before you go.
Entrance fees
| Fee | Cost | Notes from NPS |
|---|---|---|
| Entrance - Private Vehicle | $30 | 7-day vehicle permit, admitting the passengers of a single, non-commercial vehicle on the day of purchase and for the next six days. |
| Entrance - Motorcycle | $25 | Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers. |
| Entrance - Per Person | $15 | 7-day entrance fee, per person on foot or bike. |
Source: nps.gov fees for Joshua Tree via the NPS API, checked Oct 26, 2026. Fees change; confirm before you go.
Pass math
- The $80 America the Beautiful Resident Annual Pass equals 3 visits at $30 per vehicle, here or at any other fee site.
- Seniors 62+ pay $20 for an annual pass or $80 for lifetime.
- Joshua Tree also lists: Annual Entrance - Park, $55.
Source: nps.gov passes, checked Oct 26, 2026, and NPS fees above.
Reservation and permit signals
Campgrounds that take reservations
- Jumbo Rocks Campground, 124 reservable of 124 sites
- Indian Cove Campground, 101 reservable of 101 sites
- Black Rock Campground, 99 reservable of 99 sites
- Cottonwood Campground, 62 reservable of 62 sites
- Ryan Campground, 31 reservable of 32 sites
- Sheep Pass Group Campground, 6 reservable of 6 sites
Source: NPS API alerts (checked Oct 26, 2026) and campgrounds (checked Oct 26, 2026). Booking windows and rules change; use the NPS link before you pay anyone.
Hours and access
Joshua Tree National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Visitation increases as temperatures moderate in the fall, peaks during the spring wildflower season, and diminishes during the heat of summer. Some areas of the park are designated for day use only. Visitor centers keep separate hours; please see descriptions.
Source: NPS API operating hours, checked Oct 26, 2026.
More on Joshua Tree: tour or DIY overview. TourOrDIY is independent and not affiliated with the National Park Service. See the accuracy disclaimer and our method.