Frequently Asked Questions

May I bring my dog to the park?
While pets are allowed in the park, their activities are restricted. They must be on a leash at all times and cannot be more than 100 feet from a road, picnic area, or campground; they are prohibited from trails, and they must never be left unattended—not even in a vehicle.

What time does the park close?
The park is always open and may be visited anytime of year. Visitor center hours vary.

Do I need to make campground reservations?
Reservations may be made for sites at Black Rock, Indian Cove, and all group sites by calling 1-877-444-6777 or online. Other campgrounds are first-come, first-served and fill quickly on weekends and during spring break. During the summer reservations are only taken for group sites. More...

What will the weather be like this weekend?
It is best to check the weather forecast online just before you leave home and even then remember that temperature changes of 40 degrees within 24 hours are common. Bring a variety of clothes that you can layer on and off as conditions change.

When will the wildflowers be at their best?
The extent and timing of wildflower blooms vary from year to year depending upon rains at the right time, warm-enough temperatures to produce flower stalks but not so warm as to dry out the plants, the elevation the plant is growing at, and the type of plant. Blooms and locations are posted as they are observed.

How did the Joshua tree get its name?
According to legend, Mormon pioneers considered the limbs of the Joshua trees to resemble the upstretched arms of Joshua leading them to the promised land. More...

How did Twentynine Palms get its name?
Legend holds that the Serano came to the Oasis of Mara because a medicine man told them it was a good place to live and that they would have many boy babies. The medicine man instructed them to plant a palm tree each time a boy was born. In the first year, the Serrano planted 29 palm trees at the oasis.