In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 54 U.S.C. §100751, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Joshua Tree National Park. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.
I. 36 CFR §1.5 – VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES, AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITIES
(a)(1) The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity:
Visiting Hours:
- Visitor Center hours throughout the park are from 8 am – 5pm unless otherwise posted.
- The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year except in areas listed below as day use only.
- The following riparian areas are open from sunrise to sunset. See appendix A for a copy of Day Use Area maps.
- Buzzard Springs Area (Township 4 South, Range 14 East, Sections 8, 9, 16, & 17) (generally a rectangle described as 1.25 miles north, to .75 miles south, to one mile east and west from the spring) (beginning at the northwest corner, 634407E x 3745886N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 637614E x 3745904N; thence southerly to 637668E x 3742683N; thence westerly to 634444E x 3742661N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
- Lost Palms and Munsen Canyon (Township 5 South, Range 12 East, Sections 20, 21, 27, 28, 29, and 34) (generally as one mile north, to two miles down canyon/south, to one mile east, to .1 mile west from Lost Palms Oasis and its Canyon) (beginning at the northwest corner, 614403E x 3732837N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 617637E x 3732854N; thence southerly to 617651E x 3731253N; thence easterly to 619257E x 3731268N; thence southerly to 619292E x 3728054N; thence westerly to 617685E x 3728036N; thence northerly to 617663E x 3729644N; thence westerly to 614436E x 3729619N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
- Pushawalla Canyon (Township 3 South, Range 8 East, Sections 21 to 28 and 33 to 36) (generally a rectangle described as .5 miles north, to two miles south of the canyon from the Geology Tour Road on the east, to four miles up canyon or west from Geology Tour Road) (beginning at the northwest corner, 577844E x 3751741N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 584264E x 3751793N; thence southerly to 584273E x 3747012N; thence westerly to 577890E x 3746985N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
- Rattlesnake Spring Area (Township 1 South, Range 5 East, Sections 22, 23, 26, and 27) (generally a rectangle described as .75 miles north, to 1.25 miles south, to two miles east, and west to the park boundary from the spring) (beginning at the northwest corner, 550043E x 3770713N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 553259E x 3770719N; thence southerly to 553267E x 3767547N; thence westerly to 550068E x 3767533N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
- Smith Water Canyon (Township 1 South, Range 7 East, Section 32 and Township 2 South, Range 7 East, Section 5) (generally a rectangle described as .5 miles north and south of canyon, from its mouth at Quail Wash on the east and its mouth at Covington Flats on the west) (beginning at the northwest corner, 566152E x 3767753N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 567759E x 3767803N; thence southerly to 567784E x 3764571N; thence westerly to 566176E x 3764556N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
- Stubbe Springs (Township 2 South, Range 7 East, Sections 26, 27, 34, 35, and 36 and Township 3 South, Range 7 East, Sections 1, 2, and 3) (generally described as one mile north and south, to 1.25 miles southeast, to .75 miles west from the spring) (beginning at the northwest corner, 569423E x 3759780N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 572639E x 3759820N; thence southerly to 572660E x 3758241N; thence easterly to 574275E x 3755825N; thence southerly to 574276E x 3755013N; thence westerly to 569452E x 3754967N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
- Wonderland of Rocks/Queen Mountain Area (significant portions of Township 1 South, Range 8 & 9 East) (excluding the Indian Cove Campground, Barker Dam area, 49 Palms Parking Lot, Rattlesnake Canyon Picnic Area, Wall Street Millsite, and park lands east of Park Route #12, generally described from the park boundary north of Indian Cove and 49 Palms Oasis to Utah Trail on the east and south to Pine Spring Wash, west to Barker Dam/Keys Ranch and the Boy Scout Trail including the features of 49 Palms Canyon, Rattlesnake Canyon, Joshua Mountain, Contact Mine, Queen Mountain, Willow Hole, Wonderland of Rocks, Wonderland Wash, Barker Dam Parking & Nature Trail, Indian Cove Nature Trail, Wall Street Millsite, and Echo Tee) (beginning at the northwest corner, 576305E x 3775825N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 577677E x 3775840N; thence southerly to 576754E x 3772779N; thence easterly to 578233E x 3772666N; thence southerly to 578643E x 3771829N; thence easterly to 579634E x 3771873N; thence northerly to 579487E x 3772595N; thence westerly to 578233E x 3772666N; thence northerly to 578243E x 3775842N; thence easterly to 581112E x 3775852N; thence southerly to 581454E x 3775642N; thence easterly to 581942E x 3775652N; thence northerly to 581942E x 3775847N; thence easterly to 587203E x 3775989N; thence southerly to 587217E x 3774417N; thence easterly to 588645E x 3774435N; thence southerly to 588649E x 3774237N; thence easterly to 588842E x 3774239N; thence southerly to 588878E x 3770791N; thence easterly to 589509E x 3770474N; thence southerly to 589336E x 3769740N; thence westerly to 588532E x 3768570N; thence westerly to 586007E x 3767006N; thence northerly to 584675E x 3768133N; thence westerly to 582417E x 3767507N; thence southerly to 582367E x 3766213N; thence westerly to 580698E x 3765446N; thence northerly to 580694E x 3766225N; thence westerly to 577669E x 3766192N; thence northerly to 577665E x 3767804N; thence westerly to 576062E x 3767795N; thence southerly to 576058E x 3766988N; thence westerly to 575176E x 3767025N; thence northerly to 575761E x 3768362N; thence northerly to 573833E x 3773655N; thence easterly to 575488E x 3774115N; thence northerly to 576171E x 3774826N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
Justification: It is necessary to establish hours that the public may enter an area in order to protect the natural and cultural resources from resource damage, theft, vandalism and inappropriate group activities. It is also necessary for visitor safety since these areas can present hazardous conditions, which become extreme during the night hours.
Public Use Limits:
- The following areas are open from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset except by permit.
- Barker Dam Area (within Township 2 South, Range 8 East, Section 4 and 5) (all park lands north of Barker Dam Road and Queen Valley Road including Barker Dam parking lot) (beginning at the northwest corner, 576899E x 3766188N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 579334E x 3766217N; thence southerly to 579355E x 3765224N; thence westerly to 577921E x 3764890N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
- 49 Palms Parking Area (within Township 1 South, Range 8 East, Section 2) (the entire length of the paved road from the park boundary including the parking lot) (beginning at the northwest corner, 581112E x 3775852N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 581942E x 3775847N; thence southerly to 581942E x 3775652N; thence westerly to 581454E x 3775642N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
- Rattlesnake Canyon Parking and Picnic Area (within Township 1 South, Range 8 East, Section 16) (the entire length of the road east from the Rattlesnake Day Use Closure Gate including the parking lot) (beginning at the northwest corner, 578233E x 3772666N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 579487E x 3772595N; thence southerly to 579634E x 3771873N; thence westerly to 578643E x 3771829N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
- Intersection Rock Parking Area Within the SW 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 08, Township 02 South, Range 08 East Beginning at the North corner 577267, 3764252 (UTMs) UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83), thence to the East to 577402, 3764082; thence to the South 577310, 3764017; thence to the West 577143, 3764133.
Justification: These areas are designated as Day Use only. This is necessary for visitor safety and the protection of the natural and cultural resource from vandalism, theft, and inappropriate use.
- The Key’s Ranch (Township 1 South, Range 8 East, Section 32) is open to the public only when accompanied by a park employee or authorized by a permit. This closure is generally a rectangle from the Keys Ranch gate on the south, to the private property on the west, to 1/8 mile north of the ranch house, to slightly over one mile east of the ranch house including Keys Ranch and Cow Camp impoundments (beginning at the northwest corner, 576060E x 3767793N (UTM Zone 11N (NAD 83)); thence easterly to 577668E x 3767805N; thence southerly to 577671E x 3766200N; thence westerly to 576069E x 3766179N; thence northerly to the point of the beginning).
Justification: This is necessary to protect a sensitive historic site from vandalism and theft.
- The following campgrounds or portions thereof may be closed to public entry from the weekend following Memorial Day until the weekend before Columbus Day unless needed during the summer.
- Belle Campground.
- Black Rock Canyon Campground, eastern side of the campground closed.
- Cottonwood Campground, one loop within the campground closed.
- Indian Cove Campground, western portion of the campground closed.
- White Tank Campground, except for hikers accessing the Arch Rock Nature Trail for day use only and associated restroom.
Justification: This is necessary to allow the campgrounds relief and saves operational costs while still meeting visitor carrying capacity loads during the low visitation period.
- The 49 Palms Trail is closed to all public entry annually from June 1 through September 30. All other trails in the park remain open.
Justification: The 49 Palms Trail is a strenuous, 3-mile round-trip desert hike with no access to water or shade and limited cell service. During the summer months, the area regularly experiences extreme temperatures exceeding 110°F. The trail has a documented history of heat-related medical incidents and search and rescue (SAR) operations, often involving unprepared visitors. Emergency response to this area is delayed due to distance and terrain, significantly increasing risk to both visitors and responding staff. This proposed closure is supported by a formal 2025 visitor safety risk assessment conducted by an interdisciplinary team, which identified multiple “Very High” risk factors that cannot be mitigated under current conditions. Seasonal closure during the hottest months is necessary to protect public health and safety and to reduce exposure risks for NPS staff and volunteers.
- Wilderness. National Park wilderness, including trails, is closed to the possession or use of any machine, conveyance, device or vehicle activated and propelled by a motor, engine, or other non-living power source. The use or possession of these, and all other forms of mechanical transport in Wilderness, are prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, cars, trucks, all-terrain vehicles (ATV), motorcycles, aircraft, chain saws, weed whackers, power drills, power saws, generators, and compressors. National Park wilderness, including trails, is closed to the possession or use of any contrivance for moving people or material in or over land or air that has moving parts, that provides a mechanical advantage to the user, and is powered by a living or non-living power source for the preservation of wilderness character. This includes, but is not limited to, non-motorized wheeled vehicles, conveyances and devices, such as bicycles, Segways™ and other Electric Personal Assistance Mobility Devices (EPAMD), carts, dollies, wheelbarrows, wagons, strollers, hang gliders and paragliders. Wheelchairs as defined in Title V Section 507(c) of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may be used by persons with disabilities. The National Council on Accessibility defines wheelchairs as "… all wheelchairs, whether motorized or not, provided that they are suitable for use in an indoor pedestrian area."
Justification: The Wilderness Act 1964 prohibits these uses in designated wilderness. Allowing such use would place the park in violation of the Wilderness Act.
Closures:
- The Barker Dam barrier structure, constructed of cement and stone, is closed to entry by the public. The closure limit is 10 feet around the dam except on the Barker Dam Trail side which will be limited to staying on the trail and off the dam.
Justification: Built in 1900, Barker Dam was listed on the National Historic Register in 1975 and further included within the Keys Ranch National Historic District Determination of Eligibility in 2004 as a property of local historical significance for its contributions to historic agricultural practices. Construction required sixteen 8-day-long trips to haul materials from Banning; preventing degradation to the structure is imperative to keeping it functioning for historic preservation as well as to provide a critical water source for wildlife. The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation's historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service's National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to protect America's historic and archeological resources. This is necessary to protect a sensitive cultural resource from damage.
- All park water sources are closed to swimming, wading, and bathing including but not limited to Barker Dam Lake, Cow Camp Lake, Key’s Ranch Lake, and 49 Palms Oasis.
Justification: Water is essential and very limited to populations of bighorn sheep in Joshua Tree National Park. Swimming, wading, and bathing in the traditional watering locations contaminates these water sources and deters the sheep from visiting the water sources. Both consequences adversely affect this sensitive population.
- The historic Camp Coxcomb Ranges 1 & 2 are closed to the public. The closure limit is the entirety of the canyon drainage west from the park boundary between 33.88237, -115.29235 (East Terminus) to 33.88240, -115.29965 (West Terminus). See Appendix A for area map.
Justification: Superintendent Smith issued an emergency closure of the bombing range area in February 2021 due to the USMC Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team’s assessment that there is a high probability of more unexploded ordinance within the footprint of the historic range. Joshua Tree National Park and the USMC are actively working on a solution to assess and mitigate safety hazards in this area. Upon the completion of this effort the park will reassess the validity of this closure.
- The following routes are closed to all rock climbing and bouldering:
Pictograph Boulder.
The following boulder is closed to climbing and bouldering: Pictograph Boulder. This includes the problems: Local Color, Brownian Motion, Shades of Gray.
-116.091699 34.042103
Schwarzenegger Wall.
The following routes, areas, and formations are closed to all rock climbing and bouldering: Schwarzenegger Wall on the North End of Rockworks Rock. This includes all climbing to the right (north) of the route "Kickoff" on Rockworks Rock.
-116.149796 34.03181
Indian Cave Boulder.
The following boulder is closed to climbing and bouldering: Indian Cave. This includes the problems: Shindig and Unknown.
-116.165931 34.014798
Lonely Stones 3.
The following boulder is closed to climbing and bouldering: Lonely Stones 3. This includes the problems: Unnamed, Rattlesnake, Entropic Design, East Corner
-116.248244 34.083848
The Shipwreck.
The following boulder is closed to climbing and bouldering: The Shipwreck. This includes the problems: Shipwreck, Unnamed, Fistful of Walnuts, Neoflange, Turboflange, Block Party. Chalk Party, Dashed on the Rocks, Down with the Ship, Women and Children First
-116.165576 34.009893
Indian Wave Boulders.
The following boulders are closed to climbing and bouldering: The Lion’s Cage, Indian Wave Boulder, Native Arete, Sheize Roof, Fat Lip Boulder, Shard, Indian Cave, Chicken Wing. This includes the problems on the following boulders:
- The Lion’s Cage
- The Lion’s Cage
- -116.141576 34.026097
- Indian Wave Boulder
- New Wave, Old Wave
- -116.141343 34.02068
- Native Arete
- Native Arete, Unnamed, Native Son, The Flame, Native Arete SDS
- -116.141769 34.02645
- Sheize Roof
- Sheize, Hollow Flake Traverse, Hollow Flake Dyno
- -116.141402 34.02654
- Fat Lip Boulder
- Unnamed, Fat Lip, Lipless, Lipitor, Lip-Synch, Fat Lip SDS, Fat Lip Left Hand
- -116.14130 34.026717
- Shard
- Junior, Smooth as a Baby’s Ass, Babyface, Liquid Wrench, Junior Right SDS
- -116.141042 34.0266
- Indian Cave
- Chicken Wing, Liquid Wrench
- -116.141075 34.02677
- Boulder (Heavy Metal Boulder)
- Heavy Metal, Hellflake
- -116.141093 34.02693
- Zombie Woof
- The following routes are closed to climbing and bouldering: Poodle Woof, Zombie Woof, Woof Woof on the Zombie Woof Rock, Bats with Aids
- -116.17273 34.010905
- Maverick Boulder
- The following boulder has been closed: Maverick.
- The following problems on Maverick have been closed to climbing and bouldering: Dr. Garlic Breath, Cleared For Landing, Game of Chance, Diamond in the Rough, Maverick, Renegade, Renegade Sit
- -116.159195 33.986045
- Wormholes
- The following boulder has been closed: Wormholes.
- The following problems on Wormholes are closed to climbing: Goolsby Problem, Mulligan Variation, Browning Mantel, Unnamed.
- -116.101804 34.059897
- Little Hunk
- The following climbs on the Little Hunk Formation have been closed to climbing: Energy Crisis, Police and Thieves, and Unsolved Mystery.
- -116.152388 34.027609
- Lucky Boy Boulders
- The following boulders have been closed to climbing and bouldering: Lower Lucky Boulder, Entrance Boulder, Wildcat.
- This closure includes the problems: The Squeeze, Way of the Knob, Lizards Head, Double Entendre, The Rollover, unknown, Feeling Lucky, Lucky Draw, unknown, P is For Peril, Cindy’s Face, and John’s Route.
- -116.073593 34.018258
- Lower Lucky Boulder
- Entrance Boulder
- Wildcat
Justification: This is necessary to protect sensitive resources from damage.
- Unattended parking is not allowed within the park between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. except in designated campsites and at backcountry board parking areas.
Justification: This is necessary to prevent unauthorized camping in areas not designated for camping, group gatherings in undeveloped areas, sanitation problems, vandalism, and theft of natural resources.
- No fixed anchors may be placed within the Fixed Anchor Free Zone. See Appendix C “Fixed Anchor Free Zone Map.”
Justification: This is necessary to protect specific natural rock features from the introduction of Fixed Anchors. A fixed anchor is defined as any piece of climbing protection that is left in place to facilitate a safe ascent or rappel.
- The possession or transportation by any means of wild animals as listed or defined in Title 50 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 17.11 (Endangered and Threatened Wildlife) or California Fish and Game Code sections 2116 and 2118 (Wild Animals), or live farm animals (cattle, bison, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, etc.) is prohibited.
Justification: This is necessary to provide protection to the park’s native species from the potential introduction of exotics and/or diseased animals. It also promotes public safety.
- Employee residential areas, office areas including the curtilage around the office areas, and park maintenance facilities are open to the public only when authorized by a park employee or resident.
- Pinto Wye (Belle Mountain) and Cottonwood (Smoke Tree) Well Service Roads are closed to public vehicle traffic.
- Lost Horse Ranger Station Road is closed to public vehicle traffic at 39.019019 -116.183855.
- There is no loitering at park visitor centers after established hours except for official business (i.e., park information from exterior exhibits or obtain brochures) or use of the public restrooms.
Justification: This is necessary to protect government property and personal property of government employees from vandalism and theft.
- Mine adits and shafts are closed to entry by the public.
Justification: This is necessary for public safety and to reduce the likelihood of people carrying the causal fungal agent of white-nosed syndrome, Geomyces destructans, to our bat populations. Studies have shown people can unintentionally carry this fungus from an infected site to a non-infected site on their gear, clothing, and other personal effects in addition to protect the safety of park visitors from hazards associated with these cultural features.
- The use of fixed line (any line made from any material which is stretched between 2 points) is prohibited in campgrounds, at trailheads, and in picnic areas. Tie-downs used in conjunction with tarps and tents affixed to ground stakes are permitted in campgrounds. Vegetation, picnic tables, and signage may not be used to anchor any fixed line. Highlines and slacklines may not be left unattended and need to be dismantled when not in use.
- The installation of new fixed anchors for any purpose other than climbing is prohibited.
Justification: These conditions are necessary to reduce the impact to natural resources, prevent safety hazards and promote a satisfactory visitor experience.
(a)(2) The following areas have been designated for a specific use or activity, under the conditions and/or restrictions as noted:
Camping:
- Please refer to Section 2.10 for detailed camping area designations.
Segway Use:
- Segways and motorized scooters, as defined under Section 1.4 are motor vehicles. The park imposes an interim restriction on the use of Segways and motorized scooters from all areas within the park including park roads, trails, and sidewalks. However, any park visitor with a disability is permitted to use Segways and motorized scooters throughout the park, including all structures, facilities, park roads, sidewalks, trails, and other surfaces when such devices are used for the sole purpose of mobility assistance. Finally, use of a mobility assistive device, as outlined above, must also adhere to the following:
- A person shall operate any mobility assistive device in a safe and responsible manner; maximum speed will not exceed more than 8 M.P.H. (“Segway sidewalk/Intermediate” key), so as not to endanger oneself or any other park visitor.
- A person riding any mobility assistive device upon and along a sidewalk, while crossing a roadway in a crosswalk or on any other surface shall have all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances, except that the mobility assistive device operator must always yield to pedestrians (park visitors and employees).
Justification: This provides for the use of mobility assistive devices within the park for individuals with disabilities and protection of the park resources against recreational activities inconsistent with park management.
The following restrictions and/or conditions are in effect for the specific uses or activities noted:
Plants
- Climbing, sitting, or standing on live Joshua trees is prohibited. Stringing hammocks, slacklines, or anything else from Joshua trees is also prohibited.
Justification: This is necessary to protect Joshua trees from damage to branches, trunks, and roots. Unlike most trees, Joshua trees are monocots and do not have a tap root or wood (secondary xylem) and are therefore structurally week. Joshua tree branches can break from snow accumulation and tress can be toppled by high winds. The effects of a warming climate are stressing Joshua trees and Joshua tree mortality is now greater than reproduction.
Passenger Carrying Busses
- Engines must be shut down when not underway. Engine may be turned on as passengers load or unload from the bus to aid in climate control, but idling should be allowed for no more than five minutes.
Justification: The idling of bus engines adds unnecessary exhaust fumes to the air and diminishes the enjoyment by visitors of the peace and tranquility of the park.
Climbing
- Climbing is permitted in Joshua Tree National Park. Climbing with fixed anchors is permitted in the areas where fixed anchors were installed prior to the issuance of this compendium. Until the completion of a revised Climbing Management Plan, the installation, removal, and replacement of all bolts is suspended unless authorized by the superintendent through a Special Use Permit. The use of a motorized drill is prohibited for the installation, removal or replacement of a bolt unless authorized by the superintendent through a Special Use Permit.
- No one may initiate or terminate a climb in an occupied campsite unless given permission by the occupant of that site.
- Glue, epoxy, cement, or any other adhesive may not be used to attach or reinforce hand and/or footholds for climbing or scrambling.
- Chipping or enhancing hand and/or footholds is not allowed while climbing or scrambling.
- Vegetation may not be removed for the purpose of climbing and scrambling nor may they be used as anchors.
- Only neutral or rock-colored stainless-steel fixed anchors and corresponding hangers, rappel rings, quick links and chain are permitted including replacement fixed anchors.
- Cords, rope and climbing equipment may not be placed in a horizontal position within a campground for purposes such as “slack lines” and clothes lines.
- Power-drilling devices may not be used for placing or replacing bolts except when authorized by the Superintendent.
Justification: These conditions are necessary to reduce the impact to natural resources, prevent safety hazards and promote a satisfactory visitor experience. Authorization for placement of fixed anchors and power-drilling devices may be obtained through the park’s special use permit office in Twentynine Palms, CA.
Public Water Use
- No one may take water from a non-pay park public water dispenser for domestic purposes outside the park.
Justification: Water supplied to the public is for the benefit and use of park campers and not for local residents.
- No one may take water from a private residence within the boundaries of Joshua Tree National Park.
Justification: Water spigots attached to private residences are for the use of the residents of those residences and not the public.
Unmanned Aircraft
- Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Joshua Tree National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.
Definition: Unmanned Aircraft (UA) - The term "unmanned aircraft" means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
Justification: This is necessary to provide for visitor health and safety, protection of environmental, wilderness, and scenic values; protection of natural and cultural resources; avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities; impacts to view sheds; and reduction of unreasonable noise.
Remote Controlled Toys
- No person shall operate any radio-controlled or other remotely operated model, toy or similar device, including but not limited to cars, helicopters, rockets, airplanes or gliders.
Justification: This is necessary to provide for visitor safety, protection of property, and reduce unnecessary noise.
Wheeled Apparatus
- Any apparatus with integrated or attached wheels, including, but not limited to, coolers, strollers, tripods, props, and light fixtures, is prohibited from being moved by means of its wheels on the ground outside of designated campgrounds, parking areas, and visitor center areas. Wheelchairs and mobility assistive devices are excluded from this prohibition provided that they are being used by a person with a disability requiring the use of such a device.
Justification: This is necessary to prevent damage to vegetation near developed areas and the degradation of existing trails.
Vehicle Length
- The Parking lots located in the Lost Horse Mine, Split Rock, and Wall Street Mill Day Use areas are closed to RVs (The combination of the Trailer and tow vehicle, or any Class RV) whose size exceed 25’ in length.
Justification: The Parking lots located at Lost Horse Mine, Split Rock, and Wall Street Mill do not have the space available for an RV to safely maneuver the vehicle in the lot.
Bike Use
- Use of bicycles on roadways during storm events, to include, rain, sand, or snow, is prohibited.
- Bicycles are only allowed on designated park roads. The use of bicycles off road, on park trails, or designated wilderness areas is prohibited.
Justification: Operation of bicycles during storm events which require active road plowing, prevent the plows from maintaining a straight road. In instances which bikers are on blind curves the ability for a plow drive to slow quickly or move into the opposite lane is not guaranteed due to the nature of the unplowed road. This creates a safety hazard for those riding a bicycle through the park as they can be struck by a plow.
E-Bikes
- The operator of an e-bike may only use the motor to assist pedal propulsion. The motor may not be used to propel an e-bike without the rider also pedaling, except in locations open to public vehicle traffic.
- Similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes are not allowed in designated wilderness areas.
Justification: The Superintendent retains the right to limit, restrict or impose conditions of e-bike use in order to endure visitor safety and resource protection.
Filming
- Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905.
- Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
- Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
- If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.
Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit, and implements federal law.
II. 36 CFR §1.6 – ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT
Permits for front country camping can be obtained at the campgrounds and through the NPS reservation system, Recreation.gov. Overnight Backcountry camping permits may be obtained at through the Recreation.gov reservation system or the Backcountry Permit Office. All other permits must be obtained through the Permit Office:
Attn: Permit Office
Joshua Tree National Park,
74485 National Park Drive
Twentynine Palms, CA. 92277.
- Some filming, still photography, and audio recording may require a permit (depends upon the facts and circumstances; contact the park for more information). 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2) and 54 U.S.C. 100905.
The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the superintendent is required:
§1.5(d) The following activities related to Public Use Limits:
- A new fixed anchor may not be placed in the wilderness unless authorized by the Park Superintendent.
Justification: This is necessary to reduce impacts to the wilderness experience and the natural and cultural resources that may be associated to the attraction of recreational users to a new bolted route.
- Group size limits for day and overnight use is 12 people. Large groups that are subdivided to meet group size limits must camp at least one mile apart in the backcountry and hike at least 10 minutes apart.
Justification: This is necessary to reduce impact to resources, visitor experience, and wilderness character.
- The projecting of light or other images onto rock formations is prohibited unless pursuant to a permit authorized by the Park Superintendent.
Justification: This is necessary to protect the scenic values of the park’s rock outcrops.
- The use of movie projectors or visual projection shows displayed on a detachable screen or other medium in a park campsite is prohibited unless pursuant to a permit authorized by the Park Superintendent.
Justification: This is necessary to avoid conflicts among visitor use activities.
§2.4(d) Carry or possess a weapon, trap, or net (excluding legal firearms)
- A research permit is required to carry or possess a weapon, trap or net prohibited under CA or applicable federal laws and may be obtained through the Resource Management Division at park headquarters.
§2.4(e) Wildlife protection
- A scientific research permit or special use permit is required to view wildlife using artificial light at night in the park.
Justification: This is necessary to protect the nocturnal park wildlife from interference with their natural activities.
§2.5(a) Specimen collection (Take plant, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals)
§2.10(a) The following camping activities:
- Camping is permitted only in designated backcountry zones or in designed campgrounds. Backcountry camping permits may be obtained through the Recreation.gov reservation system or the Joshua Tree Permit Office.
- A recreational use fee must be paid for overnight use.
- Backcountry camping with a permit is the only form of camping allowed outside of designated campgrounds. Backcountry camping is allowable in the following Backcountry Zones (see backcountry camping zoning map at https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675329)
- Black Rock
- Covington
- Eagle Mountains
- East Zone
- Hexie Mountains
- Juniper Flats
- Lost Horse
- North Entrance
- Pine City
- Pinto Mountains
- Pleasant Valley
- Quail Wash
- The Maze
- Twin Tanks
- In the Boy Scout Trail Backcountry Zone, camping is limited to 14 designated camping areas available to the public. Site 15 is restricted as an emergency site and for administrative use only.
§2.12 Audio Disturbances:
- A special use permit is required to exceed audio conditions outlined in 36 CFR section 2.12. The permit may be obtained at the Special Use Permit office at park headquarters.
- (a)(2) Operating a chain saw in developed areas
- (a)(3) Operation of any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas
- (a)(4) Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51
§2.17 Aircraft & Air Delivery:
- Authorization must be obtained from the Superintendent’s Office to recover/remove non-military downed aircraft and/or components.
- (a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means
- (c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft
§2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money goods or services (Pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit issued under §2.50, §2.51 or §2.52)
- Authorization must be obtained from the Superintendent’s office at park headquarters.
§2.38 Explosives:
- A special use permit is required for using, storing, possessing or transporting explosive agents or materials. Permit may be obtained through the Special Use Permits office at park headquarters.
- (a) Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents
- (b) Use or possess fireworks
§2.50(a) Conduct a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events
- Permits for these activities may be obtained from the Special Use office at the park headquarters.
§2.51(a) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and other public expressions of views
- The following areas have specific locations designated for public assemblies (described in Section 2.51 (e) and maps are available from the Superintendent’s Office) for activities involving the public expression of views. Other locations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
- Black Rock Nature Center (north side of parking lot)
- Cottonwood Visitor Center (southeast side of parking lot)
- Oasis Visitor Center (east side of parking lot)
Permits are only required for groups of 26 or more and may be obtained at the Special Use office at park headquarters. Small groups may still apply for a permit to guarantee their use of a particular area.
Justification: To conform with National Park Service Special Park Uses Program changes.
§2.52(c) Sale or distribution of printer matter that is not solely commercial advertising
- The following areas have specific locations designated as First Amendment areas available for the sale or distribution of printed matter (described in Section 2.52 (e) and maps are available from the Superintendent’s Office)
- Black Rock Nature Center (north side of parking lot)
- Cottonwood Visitor Center (southeast side of parking lot)
- Oasis Visitor Center (east side of parking lot)
The permit may be obtained at the Special Use office at park headquarters.
§2.60(b) Livestock use
- Prohibited unless permit is issued by the Superintendent’s office at park headquarters excluding pack animals/equine use.
§2.61(a) Residing on federal lands
- Prohibited unless authorized from the Superintendent’s office at park headquarters.
§2.62 Memorialization:
- (a) Erection of monuments (Requires approval from Regional Director)
- (b) Scattering ashes from human cremation
- Prohibited unless authorized by a permit form the Superintendent’s office at park headquarters and limited to the area adjacent to the accessible trail portion of the secondary Key’s View trail. Refer to General Regulations Section 2.62 in this compendium for conditions.
§3.3 Use of a vessel:
- Prohibited on all water surfaces including Barker Dam, Keys Ranch, and Cow Camp Lakes.
§4.11(a) Exceeding of established vehicle load, weight, and size limits:
- RVs, trailers, and any vehicles with a combined length of more than 25 feet are prohibited within Split Rock and Live Oak picnic areas, Hidden Valley Campground, and White Tank campground, unless authorized by the Superintendent’s office at park headquarters.
§5.1 Advertisements: (Display, posting or distribution.)
- Prohibited unless authorized by the Superintendent’s office at park headquarters.
§5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (Requires a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, or must be pursuant to special regulations).
- A special use permit may be obtained through the Special Use office at the park headquarters.
§5.5 Commercial Photography/Filming:
- Permits will not be issued for the following days, events and/or time periods:
- Friday, Saturday, or Sundays
- All Federal Holidays
- All Fee Free Days
- 2 weeks of Easter/Spring Break
- 2 weeks of Thanksgiving Break
- 2 weeks of Christmas/Winter Break
Justification: Due to the increased visitation on the listed days/dates the visitor experience would be affected by loss of parking, large equipment, and obstructed views. Since we are already at capacity on these dates and the park is mostly drive-thru this permitting activates would only add to the park’s congestion.
- (a) Commercial filming of motion pictures or television involving the use of professional casts, settings or crews, other than bona fide newsreel or news television
- (b) Still photography of vehicles, or other articles of commerce or models for the purpose of commercial advertising.
§5.6(c) Use of commercial vehicles on park area roads
- The superintendent shall issue a permit to access private lands within or adjacent to the park when access is otherwise not available
Authorization may be obtained through the Superintendent’s office at park headquarters.
§5.7 Construction of buildings, facilities, trails, roads, boat docks, path, structure, etc.
- Prohibited unless authorized by the Superintendent’s office at park headquarters
§6.9(a) Operation of a solid waste disposal site
- Prohibited unless authorized by the Superintendent’s office at park headquarters
Part 7 Special Regulations
- The park has no special regulations.
Part 10 Disposal of Certain Wild Animals
Part 12 National Cemeteries
36 CFR §2.1 - PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
(a)(1) Possessing, destroying, injuring, defacing, removing, digging, or disturbing from its natural state
(ii) Plants of the parts of products thereof
- Climbing, sitting, or standing on live Joshua Trees is prohibited. Stringing hammocks, slacklines, or anything else from Joshua trees is also prohibited.
(a)(4) Dead wood on the ground may be collected for use as fuel for campfires within the park in the following areas:
- There are no designated areas within the park where dead wood on the ground may be gathered for use as fuel for campfires.
(a)(5) The following conditions are in effect for walking, climbing, entering, ascending or traversing the listed archeological or cultural resource, monuments or statues:
Only the following sites are open to public entry, except for entering within a rock shelter or climbing on physical structures:
- Site commonly referred to as the Barker Dam (Disney) Petroglyphs on Barker Dam Nature Trail (RIV-906).
- Hidden Valley Boulder (RIV-29).
- Indian Cave at Ryan Mountain (RIV-359).
- Ryan Ranch
- Lost Horse Mine
- Wall Street Mill
- Mastodon Mine
- Contact Mine
- Oasis of Maara’
- Climbing, ascending, and descending on standing structures and entering features associated with mining operations (i.e., standing mill structures; aerial tram towers, terminals, and cables; ore bins; ore chutes; adits, shafts, buildings; walls, gates, fencing, etc.) is prohibited, unless authorized under permit by the Superintendent.
- (a)(6) Possessing, destroying, injuring, defacing, removing, digging, or disturbing a structure or its furnishing or fixtures, or other cultural or archeological resources, is prohibited. This includes all mine structures and features, homestead buildings and features, ruins, dams (i.e., standing mill structures; aerial tram towers, terminals, and cables; ore bins; ore chutes; buildings; walls, gates, fencing, refuse dumps, artifact scatters, etc.).
(b) Hiking or pedestrian traffic is restricted to the trail or walkway as listed in Section 1.5 of this document.
- Cross-country hiking is allowed in the park, except in the area designated as Keys Ranch (see Part 1, Public Use Limits).
(c)(1), (c)(2) The following fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption, in accordance with the noted size, quantity, collection sites and/or use or consumption restrictions:
- Collection of up to two (2) total gallons of chia (Salvia columbariae) seed from an area west of Cottonwood Springs Road by members of the park's Traditionally Associated Tribes is permitted. The park requests that designated tribal members authorized to collect chia seed notify the park of the date(s) they wish to collect chia seed. Tribal members may collect chia seed using hand tools only (no mechanized or motorized equipment may be used) and done so in a manner in which some of the seed is scattered rather than all collected. Only every other chia plant may be harvested, so that one half of plants are left intact. Plants must not be uprooted. Seed collection may occur along Cottonwood Springs Road from the park boundary north to the junction with Black Eagle Mine Road. Seed collection is allowed on the west side of the road, up to one mile west of the road. Members collecting seed must park vehicles in designated pull-outs, and if collecting seed along the road shoulder, members must wear a brightly colored vest for safety.
36 CFR §2.2 - WILDLIFE PROTECTION
(d) The transporting of lawfully taken wildlife through the park is permitted under the following conditions and procedures:
- Authorization must be obtained prior to entering the park. This can be done at the Superintendent's office at the park headquarters.
(e) The following areas are closed to the viewing of wildlife with the use of an artificial light:
- All wildlife viewing using artificial light is prohibited in the park, except under conditions of a special use permit or scientific research permit.
36 CFR §2.3 – FISHING
(a) The following State fishing laws and/or regulations, as noted, do not apply in the listed areas:
- Barker Dam impoundment
- Cow Camp impoundment
- Key’s Ranch impoundment
(d)(2) Possession or use of live or dead minnows or other bait fish, amphibian, non-preserved fish eggs or roe is permitted in the following fresh water areas:
(d)(4) In accordance with federal statutory law, commercial fishing is authorized in the following areas, under the conditions noted:
(d)(8) Fishing is allowed in or from the following otherwise prohibited areas:
36 CFR §2.4 – WEAPONS, TRAPS, AND NETS
(a)(2)(i) Weapons (excluding legal firearms), traps, or nets may only be carried, possessed or used at the following designated times and locations:
- Traps and nets are prohibited. Weapons are prohibited except in accordance with California State laws when not prohibited by other applicable Federal laws or in accordance with a valid park research permit.
(2)(b)(iii) Weapons, traps, or nets may be used for target practice as provided for in Section 7.
- Target practice is prohibited.
36 CFR §2.10 – CAMPING and FOOD STORAGE
(a) The sites and areas listed below have been designated for camping activities as noted. A permit system has been established for certain campgrounds or camping activities, and conditions for camping and camping activities are in effect as noted:
(1) Registration is required at the following campgrounds:
- Black Rock Campground
- Black Rock Horse Campground
- Hidden Valley Campground
- Belle Campground
- Ryan Campground
- Ryan Horse Campground
- Sheep’s Pass Group Campground
- Jumbo Rocks Campground
- Cottonwood Campground
- White Tank Campground
- Indian Cove Campground
Registration permits may be done at any open Entrance Station or Joshua Tree National Park Permit Office for any campsite not currently open to pre-registration through Recreation.gov. When additional sites are available or during certain periods of the year, additional campsites may be open to self-registration. All group sites including the Ryan and Black Rock Horse Camps, Cottonwood Group Sites, Sheep Pass Group Sites, and Indian Cove Group Sites may only be obtained through advanced pre-registration at Recreation.gov. Ryan Horse Camp and Bike Camp are reserved through the Special Park Use Office.
(2) All campsites must be vacated by 12 noon on day of departure.
(3) Camping within the park is limited to 30 days within a calendar year. Between October 1 and May 31, the camping limit within the park is 14 days, in any combination of visits or consecutive nights.These limits apply to all overnight visits, including backcountry stays, campground stays or any other overnight activity.
(4) The use of generators is permitted within campgrounds only between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., 12 noon and 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. or pursuant to a Special Use.
(5) A maximum of two licensed vehicles per non-group campsite is allowed, space permitting. A maximum of three tents and six people are permitted in each non-group campsite.
(6) Campsites may not be saved. Holding or reserving a campsite by anyone who does not intend to immediately and personally occupy the campsite is prohibited. Holding a campsite for another individual who is not immediately present at the campsite is prohibited.
(7) Sites may not be unattended for more than 24 hours.
(8) Groups may not exceed the person or vehicle (provided they fit safely) limits for each campsite as listed below:
Cottonwood Group Site #01: 15 people and 7 licensed vehicles
Cottonwood Group Site #02: 20 people and 11 licensed vehicles
Cottonwood Group Site #03: 25 people and 14 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #01: 60 people and 18 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #02: 45 people and 8 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #03: 15 people and 10 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #04: 25 people and 5 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #05: 20 people and 8 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #06: 20 people and 8 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #07: 20 people and 7 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #08: 25 people and 5 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #09: 15 people and 7 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #10: 20 people and 4 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #11: 20 people and 9 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #12: 20 people and 5 licensed vehicles
Indian Cove Group Site #13: 20 people and 5 licensed vehicles
Sheep Pass Group Site #01: 50 people and 15 licensed vehicles
Sheep Pass Group Site #02: 50 people and 15 licensed vehicles
Sheep Pass Group Site #03: 20 people and 5 licensed vehicles
Sheep Pass Group Site #04: 30 people and 8 licensed vehicles
Sheep Pass Group Site #05: 30 people and 8 licensed vehicles
Sheep Pass Group Site #06: 30 people and 8 licensed vehicles
(9) All tents, tarps, sleeping bags, sleeping areas, and camping equipment must be within the campsite and no more than 25 feet from the picnic table or fire grate in non-group campsites and 50 feet for group campsites.
(10) Camping is not allowed in caves or rock shelters.
(11) Any vehicle or combination of vehicles including trailers, RV, RV’s pulling other vehicles or trailers that exceed 25 feet are prohibited in Hidden Valley Campground, White Tank Campground, group campsites, and individual campsites as posted.
(12) Cottonwood and Sheep Pass Group Campgrounds are limited to tent camping only; recreational vehicles and habitable trailers are prohibited.
(13) Parking within the park for overnight backcountry/wilderness use is restricted to backcountry parking lots.
(14) Backcountry/wilderness camping must be at least one mile from any backcountry trailhead, at least ½ mile from any road, at least 200 feet from any trail, and out of sight of any road or trail.
(15) Group size limit for day and overnight use is 12 people in all areas. Larger groups that are subdivided to meet group size limits must camp at least one mile apart in the backcountry and hike at least 10 minutes apart.
(16) Large groups that are subdivided to meet group size limits must camp at least one mile apart.
(17) Use of the Horse Camps is limited to equestrian users only
(18) Use of Bicycle Camps are for campers arriving via bicycle only
(19) Campsite parking is restricted to occupants of applicable site. Visitors to campsites are directed to park in public lots (i.e., Intersection Rock parking area, Hidden Valley Day-Use Area).
(20) Rightful occupants of first come first serve campsites do not need to remain in their site until payment is made, however if they do leave, they must leave behind items in the site to designate they have claimed the site. Other visitors must not ignore or remove these items in attempt to claim the site from rightful owners.
(21) Occupants of a first come first serve campsite are required to pay within one hour of arrival at their campsite.
(22) Human waste must be disposed of properly. The most leave-no-trace choice for human waste disposal is to use a wag bag and pack out any human excrement. Alternatively, burial of human waste is permitted in a hole at least 6 inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water, backcountry campsites, rock shelters, and climbing/bouldering routes. Proper disposal of human waste does not include leaving waste under a rock or kicking sand over it. Toilet paper must be packed out.
Justification: Camping in Joshua Tree National Park is an intensive use and under high demand. These conditions are established to protect the natural and cultural resources in the park, provide for the enjoyment of the public, and provide for public safety. Limitations on numbers of days and number of persons using the sites are necessary to achieve this protection while providing equitable access to the park.
(b)(3) Camping within 25 feet of a fire hydrant or main road, or within 100 feet of a flowing stream, river or body of water is authorized only in the following areas, under the conditions noted:
(d) Conditions for the storage of food are in effect, as noted, for the following areas:
- All of Joshua Tree National Park is designated as a secure food storage area. In addition to other provisions of 2.10 (d), any scented or odorous items must also be similarly stored.
- Food is required to be stored in a vehicle or hard-sided food storage containers capable of preventing access by wildlife in the campgrounds.
36 CFR §2.11 – PICNICKING
Certain areas have been closed to picnicking and are listed in section 1.5(a)(1) “Closures”.
Conditions for Picnicking:
- Picnicking is not allowed in campsites occupied or reserved by campers.
36 CFR 2.13 – FIRES
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas and/or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
Conditions for Lighting or Maintaining a Fire
- A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.
Justification: This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – creates serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign informing visitors of the risks of using certain materials to light or maintain a fire, would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.
Designated Areas:
- Open fires are not allowed in backcountry and wilderness areas.
Receptacles Allowed:
- Open fires are restricted to grills
Established Conditions for Fires:
- Fires are only allowed in designated government grills. Within the grills, fires must be maintained at a level that can be quickly controlled or extinguished.
- Intact wood pallets may not be burned in designated Government provided grills unless all nails are removed, and the pallets are broken down into sizes which fit inside the exterior walls of the grill.
Justification: This condition is necessary to keep fires within the provided grills and reduce potential fire escapes; and endangering public health with nails littering the campground.
High fire danger closures will be in effect in fire grates and grills as noted: At all campgrounds (Black Rock, Hidden Valley, Indian Cove, Cottonwood, Ryan, Sheep Pass, Jumbo Rocks, White Tank, Belle) and picnic areas, grilling and campfires are prohibited between June 15th and October 1 or during other periods of high fire danger such as high winds, or fire weather watches and red flag warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Controlled flame devices such as portable stoves and lanterns with shut-off valves that use gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed.
Justification: The superintendent has determined that the areas around the above campgrounds andpicnic areas are extremely vulnerable to wildland fire due to flash fuel concentrations and low fuel moisture during the identified time. This restriction is intended to ensure visitor safety as well as resource protection, especially where Joshua trees occur.
(a)(2) The following restrictions are in effect for the use of stoves or lanterns:
- Stoves and lanterns must be monitored at all times and are not permitted inside any building.
- Lanterns (gas or battery) are not permitted to be hung from park vegetation.
(b) Fires must be extinguished according to the following conditions:
- Fire and/or ashes must not be buried or covered.
- Water must be applied to extinguish the fire and/or ashes.
36 CFR §2.14 – SANITATION and REFUSE
(a)(2) The use of government refuse receptacles or facilities for dumping household, commercial or industrial refuse, brought as such from private or municipal property is allowed under the following conditions:
- Disposal of refuse in government receptacles or facilities is authorized for recreation users staying overnight within the park or visiting the park as a day-use activity.
36 CFR §2.15 – PETS
(a)(1) The following structures and/or areas are closed to the possession of pets:
- Pets may not be on any trails except the Oasis of Mara Trail and Keys View Overlook Trail. Pets are not allowed to be more than 100 feet from a legally open road, parking area or campground.
Justification: The Superintendent has determined that these prohibitions and restrictions are necessary for public safety and resource protection.
- Service animals are not subject to the park’s pet policies and, when accompanying an individual with a disability, they are allowed wherever visitors are allowed.
Justification: The Superintendent has determined this necessary to align with NPS Memorandum 19-02 – Use of Service Animals by Visitors with Disabilities.
- Definitions: Service animal means any dog or miniature horse that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.
Justification: Domesticated animals are known to alter the movements and reactions of wildlife in the park. Pets are known to chase and harass native animals especially the endangered desert tortoise.
(a)(3) Pets may be left unattended and tied to an object in the following areas, under the conditions noted:
- Not allowed
- Leaving animals unattended in a vehicle if the animal would suffer because of heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, food or water or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering, disability, or death is prohibited.
- Leaving pets in vehicles with or without the windows open is prohibited.
Justification: Joshua Tree National Park is subject to harsh and extreme environmental conditions which can be dangerous and deadly to pets left in vehicles.
(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:
- Pet excrement must be picked up immediately and disposed of in a refuse receptacle.
(b) The use of dogs in support of hunting must be in accordance with Federal and State laws and the following conditions:
(f) Pets may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:
- Conditions for park residents may be found in the park’s Pet Management Directive.
Justification: These conditions are necessary to protect the park’s natural resources and provide for public health and safety.
36 CFR §2.16 – HORSES and PACK ANIMALS
(a) The following animals are designated as pack animals for purposes of transporting equipment:
(b) The use of horses or pack animals is allowed on the following trails, routes or areas:
- Campers with pack animals are permitted only in the portions of Ryan Campground and Black Rock Campground that are designated for their use.
- All Pack animals must travel single file and may only use designated trails and corridors. See Appendix D “Trail System” in the 2000 Backcountry and Wilderness Management Plan amendment to the Joshua Tree National Park General Management Plan.
(d) Free-trailing or loose-herding is allowed on the following trails/routes, subject to the conditions noted:
(g) Other conditions concerning the use of horses or pack animals:
- Resting or tethering of pack animals is not allowed within 200 feet of any water source including springs, seeps, dams, and tanks.
- Pack animals fed within the park are restricted to feed in pellet form.
- Pack animal manure must be removed from campground areas by the owner/user of the animals.
36 CFR §2.17 – AIRCRAFT and AIR DELIVERY
(a)(1) Areas designated for operating or using aircraft are provided for in section 7.
(a)(2) The operation or use of aircraft under power on water within 500 feet of designated swimming beaches, boat docks, piers, or ramps is permitted in the following areas, under the conditions noted:
(c)(1) The removal of a downed aircraft, components, or parts thereof is subject to procedures established by the Superintendent through written authorization.
- Authorization may be obtained from the Superintendent’s Office at the Park Headquarters.
36 CFR §2.18 – SNOWMOBILES
(c) Snowmobiles may be operated only on routes designated in section 7.
36 CFR §2.19 – WINTER ACTIVITIES
(a) The following park roads and/or parking areas open to motor vehicle traffic may be used for skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, inner tubing, tobogganing, and similar winter activities under the conditions noted:
- There are no areas within the park designated for winter activities on park roads and/or parking areas.
Justification: This is necessary to provide for visitor safety and prevent user conflicts with vehicles which might be on the road.
(b) The towing of persons on skis, sled or other similar device by motor vehicle or snowmobile is allowed in the following areas and/or routes:
36 CFR §2.20 – SKATING, SKATEBOARDS and SIMILAR DEVICES
The use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices are allowed only in the following areas:
- No areas are open for the use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles or similar devices.
36 CFR §2.21 – SMOKING
(a) The following portions of the park, or all or portions of buildings, structures or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:
- Smoking is not allowed in any park facility (excluding park residences) or government (including leased or rented) vehicles.
Justification: This is necessary to prevent user conflict and provide for a healthy work environment.
36 CFR §2.22 – PROPERTY
(a)(2) Property may be left unattended for periods longer than 24 hours in the following areas and under the following conditions:
- If as specified in the conditions of a Special Use Permit, or
- For the caching or storage of food and supplies by hikers in the backcountry and wilderness subzones is limited to fourteen (14) days from time these items are cached until retrieved. All caches will be tagged with hiker’s name, phone number, and date placed. Caching or storage for periods of time longer than fourteen (14) days or failure to accurately tag the cache is prohibited and caches will be confiscated as abandoned property.
Justification: Hiking in Joshua Tree National Park is an intensive use and under high demand. These conditions are established to protect the natural and cultural resources in the park, provide for the enjoyment of the public, and provide for public safety. This limitation is necessary to achieve this protection while providing equitable access to the park.
36 CFR §2.23 – RECREATION FEES
(b) Recreation fees, and/or a permit, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following entrance fee areas, and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events or specialized recreation uses:
Entrance Fee Areas:
- Joshua Tree National Park is a designated fee area as mandated by 36 C.F.R. Section 71.3(a) and requires an entrance fee that is valid for seven consecutive days.
Daily Site Use Fee Areas:
- General admission for the Keys Ranch Interpretive Tour Fee is $20 for individuals over 12 years of age and $10 for children 4 to 11 years of age, $1 for children 3 and younger, and $10 for Senior Access Pass holders.
Special Recreation Permit Fee (Such as but not limited to, group activities, recreation events, and the use of motorized recreation vehicles):
- Special use permit fees are based on actual cost recovery. Fee estimates may be obtained by contacting the Special Use Coordinator at park headquarters.
36 CFR §2.35 – ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES and CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
(a)(3)(i) The following public use areas, portions of public use areas, and/or public facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed:
- The use or possession of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all government buildings and facilities except by written exemption from the Secretary of the Interior. Employee housing is exempt.
36 CFR §2.38 – EXPLOSIVES
(b) Fireworks and firecrackers may be possessed and/or used in the following areas, under the conditions noted:
- Fireworks and firecrackers may not be possessed and/or used within the park.
36 CFR §2.62 – MEMORIALIZATION
(b) A permit is required for the scattering of ashes from cremated human remains, or in the following designated areas without a permit, in accordance with the following terms and conditions:
- In appropriate locations as designated by the superintendent
The scattering of human ashes from cremation, without a permit, is allowed under the following terms and conditions:
- The remains to be scattered must have been cremated and pulverized.
- The scattering of remains by persons on the ground is to be performed at least 100 yards from any trail, road, developed facility, or body of water.
- The scattering of remains from the air is to be performed at a minimum altitude of 2000 feet above the ground.
- No scattering of remains from the air is to be performed over developed areas, facilities, or bodies of water.
Justification: This is necessary to ensure that modern cremated remains do not contaminate the park’s numerous archeological sites.
36 CFR §3.3 – VESSEL PERMITS
Permits are required for the use of a vessel in the following areas:
- There are no areas within the park designated for use of a vessel including but not limited to Barker Dam Lake, Keys Ranch Lake, and Cow Camp Lake.
36 CFR §4.10 – TRAVEL ON PARK ROADS AND ROUTES
(a) Park roads, open for travel by motor vehicle are those indicated below, and/or as indicated in the following publication or document (attached hereto):
- Open park roads are indicated in the Backcountry and Wilderness Plan.
(b) Routes and areas for off-road vehicle use are provided for in section 7.
- Driving off established roads is prohibited.
(c)(1) Track-laying motor vehicles, or other motor vehicles equipped with a similar traction device may be operated on the following routes under the terms and conditions noted:
- Track-laying motor vehicles or other motor vehicles equipped with a similar traction device are not allowed within the park.
(d) Four Wheel Drive is required on Pinkham Canyon Road, Thermal Canyon Road, Berdoo Canyon Road, and Black Eagle Mine Road.
36 CFR §4.21 – SPEED LIMITS
(a) The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated:
- All dirt roads within the park have a maximum speed limit of 25 miles per hour unless posted otherwise.
36 CFR §4.30 – BICYCLES
(a) Park roads and parking areas that are closed to bicycle use are listed in section 1.5 of this document.
The following additional routes, in developed areas or special use zones, have been designated for bicycle use:
- Bicycle and E-Bike use is allowed on designated public use roads. A listing of these roads can be obtained in park information publications or at park headquarters.
(b) Bicycle use is allowed in undeveloped areas as provided for in section 7.
- There is no special regulation for bicycle use in undeveloped areas.
(d)(3) Riding a bicycle abreast of another rider is allowed on the following routes:
- Riding a bicycle abreast is not allowed on any park routes.
36 CFR §4.31 – HITCHHIKING
Hitchhiking is permitted in the following areas under the conditions noted:
- Hitchhiking is permitted under exigent conditions where the health and safety of the person hitchhiking is in jeopardy or, in compliance with state laws, when the hitchhiker is not occupying the roadway or posing a potential safety hazard.
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