Indian Cove Campground

Super great campsite just outside of the park. We booked a week in advance in January and got a great site, we were in #68 which we liked, but 76 looked good too, I'm sure there are other great ones, that is just another good one we saw in our loop as we were leaving. Great rocks to climb around just behind the site, and yes, noise was kind of an issue, we had some loud neighbors but it wasn't too bad. The stars were amazing. A really nice option to be able to reserve a site here in advance, rather than chancing your luck on Jumbo Rocks. Honestly would probably just always reserve a site here and just drive in to Jumbo Rocks/the park to explore more. And also, dogs are allowed! :)

A bit further in the park from Black Rock, but worth the drive. There's literally no light pollution, so stars are amaze-balls.

Stayed here in late July without reserving ahead, and found a perfect spot. Felt like we were the only ones there and the stars/sunrise in the morning were incredible. Easily one of my favorite camping spots.

Last month I had an amazing solo stay at Indian Cove. I opted to reserve ahead because I didn't know what time I would roll in, but it turned out to only be about half full anyway. Glorious stars and in the midst of the Wonderland of Rocks... can't be beat. Definitely check the map as you select a spot though, some are rather tight, and others totally free to the wide world. Easy access to the Boy Scout Trail that's about a 7 mile hike to more central Joshua Tree, and otherwise on the outskirts of the park if you're into dabbling in some local coffee and vintage shops.

Book early weekend warriors! This place fills up fast in prime-climb season.

One of the easiest access campsites in Joshua Tree from Los Angeles.

We arrived here around 7pm on the Tuesday before Memorial Day Weekend and had our pick of the sites. Ended up at site #76, which felt really private, had great views, and was sheltered from the hot, early morning sun (essential if you want to sleep in past 5am!)

No cell service here, but it's really close to town. 10 minutes down the road is the Joshua Tree Coffee Company, which makes killer nitro iced coffees, has a gorgeous outdoor seating area, and wifi. Great for working remotely.

Beautiful rock formations, joshua trees, and some pretty decent climbing...need I say more?

Access the amazing boy scout trail from here. About 13 miles across 2 deserts and decent elevation gain. I saw turtles and rattlesnake along the way. You can camp anywhere on the northside of the trail for free, hence the name. Town easily accessible frm cove.