Joshua Tree National Park is not just a haven for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, or spiritual seekers—it’s also an ideal destination for families looking to create unique lasting memories. With its otherworldly landscapes, fascinating flora and fauna, and artistic influence, the park offers plenty of kid-friendly activities to engage visitors of all ages. With a Fieldtrip property as your base camp for desert adventures, you’ll experience the best of nature and return to the luxurious comfort of your home away from home.
1. Easy and Fun Hiking Trails- Perfect for little legs!
- Barker Dam Trail (1.1 miles): This loop trail offers a mix of desert scenery, towering boulders, and the historic Barker Dam.
- Hidden Valley Trail (1 mile): A kid-friendly loop that feels like stepping into another world, with massive rock formations to climb and sandy paths to explore. Pack a lunch and enjoy Hidden Valley Picnic Area, a shaded spot with picnic tables and restrooms available.
- Cholla Cactus Garden: A short, flat walk among hundreds of glowing cholla cacti—a mesmerizing experience, especially during sunrise or sunset.
2. Rock Climbing Adventures
Joshua Tree is world-famous for its rock climbing. Guided tours and lessons are available to ensure a safe and exciting introduction to the park’s iconic granite formations. Check out Cliffhanger Guides, a local rock climbing company with over ten years of experience in the area.
3. Exploring Jumbo Rocks and Skull Rock
The Jumbo Rocks area is a giant playground for kids and adults alike. This iconic area is famous for its towering rock formations, which have been shaped over millennia by wind and water into stunning and surreal shapes. Whether you’re a family with kids, a group of adventurous friends, or a solo traveler seeking a unique outdoor experience, Jumbo Rocks is the perfect spot to climb, explore, and marvel at the beauty of nature.
One of the most famous features of the Jumbo Rocks area is Skull Rock, a striking boulder shaped like a human skull. Its eerie yet fascinating appearance was created by natural erosion, and it’s a favorite photo spot for visitors.
4. Wildlife Watching
Joshua Tree National Park isn’t just about incredible rock formations and stunning desert landscapes—it’s also home to a vibrant array of wildlife that will captivate kids and adults alike. The park’s unique ecosystem supports a fascinating mix of animals that have adapted to the desert environment, offering plenty of opportunities for exciting wildlife encounters during your visit.
Animals to Watch For:
- Real-life Roadrunners: These speedy birds, famous from cartoons, can often be seen darting across sandy trails or open spaces. Watching their swift, quirky movements is sure to delight young explorers.
- Desert Cottontails: These adorable rabbits, with their soft fur and signature white tails, are a common sight around rocks and bushes. Kids will love spotting them as they hop and nibble their way through the desert.
- Cactus Wrens and Quails: Bird lovers will be thrilled to see the park’s feathered residents. Look for cactus wrens darting between trees and shrubs or quails scurrying along the ground, their signature head plumes bouncing with every step.
5. Pioneertown
Pioneertown is a charming Old West-style town originally built in 1946 as a movie set for Western films and TV shows. Created by a group of Hollywood actors, including Roy Rogers, it served as the backdrop for productions while also functioning as a working town. Today, Pioneertown offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved Western-style buildings, shops, and saloons. Visitors can enjoy live music at the iconic Pappy & Harriet’s, explore art galleries, and stroll along the rustic Main Street.
6. Noah Purifoy’s Outdoor Desert Art Museum
If you’re visiting Joshua Tree and looking for a unique cultural experience that blends art, history, and the desert landscape, the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum is a must-see destination. Located just a short drive from Joshua Tree National Park, this open-air gallery is a stunning testament to creativity, resilience, and environmental awareness.
The museum spans 10 acres of desert land and showcases over 100 large-scale sculptures and installations created by the late Noah Purifoy, a celebrated artist and social activist. Purifoy, who moved to the High Desert in the late 1980s, used his surroundings as inspiration, crafting his works entirely from repurposed and salvaged materials. From discarded household items to industrial debris, Purifoy transformed everyday waste into thought-provoking and visually striking art pieces.
7. Off-Road Vehicle Adventures
Take the family for an exhilarating drive through the desert landscape with Adventure Hummer Tours. This company offers both enclosed and open air drives allowing children of all ages to explore the vast scenery with a little more horsepower! Be aware that if your child requires a car seat you will need to provide your own. Private tours are also available.
8. Stargazing Under the Desert Sky
When the sun sets in Joshua Tree, the desert transforms into a celestial wonderland. Known for its crystal-clear dark skies, Joshua Tree is one of the best stargazing destinations in the United States. With minimal light pollution and a vast, open expanse, the night sky here reveals a dazzling display of stars, planets, and even the Milky Way. The best part? You and your family can enjoy this awe-inspiring activity right from the comfort of your Fieldtrip home.
Tips for Visiting with Kids
A trip to Joshua Tree National Park can be an unforgettable experience for families, filled with opportunities to explore nature, climb rocks, and spot unique wildlife. To make the most of your visit with kids, it’s essential to plan ahead and be prepared for the desert environment. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your family’s adventure is safe, fun, and hassle-free.
• Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water for everyone, as the desert climate can be dehydrating; even when it’s cool.
• Dress appropriately: Wear layers, as temperatures can vary widely, and don’t forget the sunscreen!
• Pack snacks: Keep energy levels up with healthy treats for the whole family.
Joshua Tree is a destination that offers something for everyone—whether it’s climbing iconic rock formations, spotting unique wildlife, exploring quirky art installations, or simply gazing at the stars. With its rugged beauty, family-friendly activities, and opportunities for connection with nature, it’s the perfect place to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. To make your trip even more special, book a Joshua Tree Fieldtrip home as your base for adventure. For the architecture buffs, we recommend checking out the Invisible House, a famous mirrored 22-story horizontal skyscraper seen on Netflix and Architectural Digest.
Start planning your ultimate family getaway to Joshua Tree with Fieldtrip today.