TL;DR: Joshua Tree National Park offers stunning desert hikes for all skill levels, perfect for RV campers. Explore trails like Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, Ryan Mountain, and Skull Rock. Relax nearby at RV-friendly spots like Glamis North Hot Springs Resort and Mineral Spring Date Farm.
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Joshua Tree National Park in southern California is famed for its rugged rock formations, desert landscapes, and it’s namesake, the Joshua Trees. With a variety of trails suitable for all levels, it’s an ideal destination for RV campers looking to explore the stark beauty of the desert. Here are some of the best hiking trails for RV campers in Joshua Tree National Park.
For those planning a visit spring is a great time to go, to avoid the challenges that come with hiking in the summer heat. For RV-specific amenities and tips. Check out our comprehensive guide on RV camping in California.
The Hidden Valley Trail offers a fascinating hike through a rock-enclosed valley that was once rumored to be a hideout for cattle rustlers.
Trail Description: This 1-mile loop trail is easy and accessible, providing beautiful views of rock formations and a variety of desert plants. It’s perfect for families and those looking for a short, scenic hike.
The Barker Dam Trail offers a mix of history and natural beauty, leading to an old dam and a small reservoir.
Trail Description: This 1.3-mile loop trail is relatively flat and easy, showcasing interesting rock formations, petroglyphs, and desert wildlife. It’s a great option for a leisurely hike.
The Ryan Mountain Trail offers some of the best panoramic views in Joshua Tree National Park, making the climb well worth it. This trail is dangerous to attempt in the summer due to sun exposure, high temperatures, and dehydration risks.
Trail Description: This 3-mile round-trip trail is strenuous, featuring a steady climb to the summit of Ryan Mountain. The 360-degree views from the top are spectacular, encompassing the entire park.
The Skull Rock Trail is named after the iconic rock formation that resembles a human skull, making it a popular attraction.
Trail Description: This 1.7-mile loop trail is moderately easy, winding through jumbo rocks and desert washes. It’s a fun hike for all ages, with plenty of opportunities for rock scrambling and exploration.
The Lost Horse Mine Trail takes hikers to one of the best-preserved gold mines in the park, offering a glimpse into the area's mining history.
Trail Description: This 4-mile out-and-back trail is moderate, with a gradual ascent to the mine. The trail provides beautiful views of the surrounding desert and a fascinating look at the historical mining operations.
After a day of exploring Joshua Tree National Park’s magnificent trails, RV campers can relax at one of these nearby Harvest Hosts locations:
Dive into desert relaxation at Glamis North Hot Springs Resort, where you can soak in soothing mineral hot springs after an exhilarating day of off-roading on 360 miles of trails. Nestled between the Salton Sea and Joshua Tree National Park, this oasis offers stunning mountain views and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for RV adventurers.
Discover a desert delight at Mineral Springs Date Farm, where you can stroll through lush date palms and sample sweet, freshly harvested dates or book a private mineral spring soaking tub! It’s the perfect stop for RVers looking to savor the flavors of the Southwest!
Step back in time at Chiriaco Summit, a historic desert outpost that offers a glimpse into the past, with the General Patton Memorial Museum on-site. This stop located just outside the southernmost point of Joshua Tree National Park, and it is a must for history buffs and road-trippers seeking a unique slice of Americana. Recharge, explore, and soak up the stories of yesteryear at this desert gem.
Joshua Tree National Park offers a variety of hiking opportunities that cater to all levels of RV campers. From the iconic Skull Rock to the historical Barker Dam, there’s a trail for everyone. Be sure to check trail conditions and availability before you go, and enjoy your adventures in one of California’s most iconic national parks.
For more information on RV camping and hiking in California, visit our California RV camping guide. Happy hiking!
