Visiting Joshua Tree National Park, Part 1: Where to Stay

Photo: Jessie Eastland

I'm not sure if it's the dreary weather we're having in San Francisco, or the feeling that summer is just out of reach, but I've been daydreaming of the desert. Joshua Tree National Park to be exact. So my next few posts are going to be dedicated to everything desert.

First off, if going to Joshua Tree, I suggest you camp or -- if camping just isn't your thing -- Airbnb at a location where you feel immersed in the surroundings.


Camping: The NPS has nine campgrounds within the park; if you're more of an air mattress or camper camper, then Indian Cove or Black Rock may be your best bets. And the site Just Ahead has some more information on other campgrounds within the park -- specifically, the best campgrounds for star gazing.

AirBnB: There's over a thousand rentals on the Airbnb site for the Joshua Tree region, and after scrolling through many of them, we came across three that peaked our interest:

Photo: Airbnb listing

Homestead Camp Cabin: Okay, I know I suggested Airbnb if you're not into camping, but this places blends cabin living and camping seamlessly.

Photo: Airbnb listing

"The Land Yacht": There are an assortment of cool trailers to stay in near Joshua Tree, but this Airstream trailer with a retro vibe, a deck with a stock pool, a chiminea, and endless desert views? Yes, please.

Photo: Airbnb listing

Joshua Tree Green Haus: While this house boasts a hot tub with an amazing view, two bedrooms, and WiFi, it still seems very connected to the land -- the whole point of why you'd visit Joshua Tree in the first place.

Tip: Always read the reviews before choosing an AirBnB spot.

And here's a desert song by the California band Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros to add to your playlist for the drive to Joshua Tree:

Next up, places to visit in (and around) Joshua Tree...