Indian Cove Campground
Primitive desert campground in Joshua Tree, famous for its massive rock formations, world-class rock climbing, and breathtaking stargazing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Indian Cove Campground
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Primitive desert campground in Joshua Tree, famous for its massive rock formations, world-class rock climbing, and breathtaking stargazing.
"A truly out-of-this-world camping experience with giant rocks and incredible night skies."
🎯 Reserve Early Online
Sites at Indian Cove are highly sought after. Book well in advance on Recreation.gov to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
💧 Bring All Your Water
There's no potable water available. Pack more than you think you'll need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Towering Rock Formations
Throughout the campground
Massive, ancient volcanic rocks create a dramatic backdrop and offer incredible opportunities for exploration and rock climbing.
Stargazing Paradise
Open desert sky
With minimal light pollution, the night sky here is breathtaking, offering unparalleled views of stars and the Milky Way.
Rock Climbing Haven
Various climbing routes
A world-renowned spot for climbers, with numerous routes catering to all skill levels, from bouldering to multi-pitch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Indian Cove
+1Desert Essentials: Pack Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Reserve Early Online
Sites at Indian Cove are highly sought after. Book well in advance on Recreation.gov to avoid disappointment.
💧 Bring All Your Water
There's no potable water available. Pack more than you think you'll need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
🪨 Sturdy Tent Stakes
The desert ground is hard. Bring heavy-duty tent stakes to ensure your tent stays secure. :tent:
📵 No Cell Service Zone
Expect to be disconnected. Download offline maps and inform loved ones of your itinerary beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Reserve Early Online
Sites at Indian Cove are highly sought after. Book well in advance on Recreation.gov to avoid disappointment.
💧 Bring All Your Water
There's no potable water available. Pack more than you think you'll need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
🪨 Sturdy Tent Stakes
The desert ground is hard. Bring heavy-duty tent stakes to ensure your tent stays secure. :tent:
📵 No Cell Service Zone
Expect to be disconnected. Download offline maps and inform loved ones of your itinerary beforehand.
🧗♀️ Explore the Rocks
Don't just camp! Climb, scramble, and explore the unique rock formations surrounding the campground.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Indian Cove Campground is praised for its stunning rock formations, excellent rock climbing, and incredible stargazing opportunities. Campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the feeling of isolation despite being close to town. However, the lack of amenities like water and cell service, along with hard ground for tent stakes and potential for insects, are noted drawbacks.
"I recently had an excellent experience staying at an Indian campground near Joshua Tree, and it ended up being one of the highlights of my trip. The area was peaceful, beautifully maintained, and surrounded by the kind of desert scenery that makes you slow down and appreciate the moment. The staff and hosts were incredibly warm and welcoming. They took the time to explain the layout of the grounds, share local history, and point out the best spots to explore both inside the campground and out in Joshua Tree National Park.
The campsite itself was clean, quiet, and thoughtfully arranged. Each site had enough space for privacy while still feeling like part of a friendly community. The amenities—restrooms, fire pits, and shaded areas—were well kept and made the stay very comfortable. Even at night, the campground felt safe and serene. The absence of city lights created a stunning view of the stars that I won’t forget anytime soon.
This campground offered exactly what I was hoping for: a calm, welcoming place to unwind while still being close to all the natural beauty of Joshua Tree. I would absolutely return and recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful desert getaway."
OC Photography
"One of the best campgrounds in the desert that I have enjoyed. No water or dump stations. Has vault bathrooms that are kept well stocked and clean. All campsites come with a picnic table, fire ring and grill. Beautiful place to stargaze or go hiking and rock climbing. Peaceful and pleasant 🫡"
George Morales
"This campground is located outside of Joshua Tree, not inside the national park. It’s quite large and can accommodate many people, but the sites aren’t very well separated. When we visited, there weren’t many other campers, but the light pollution was fairly strong, so it wasn’t dark enough to see the Milky Way. There were lots of insects, and the ground was very hard, making it difficult to drive in tent stakes. The weather was extremely hot, even at night."
冯熹涛
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Indian Cove Campground is located about 20-30 minutes northeast of Joshua Tree town. Take Highway 62 East and turn left onto Indian Cove Road. The drive offers scenic desert views.
No, Indian Cove Campground is located outside the main entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, but it is managed by the National Park Service. It's a separate area accessible via Indian Cove Road.
Indian Cove Campground can accommodate RVs, but be aware that there are no hookups or dump stations. The roads within the campground are generally accessible for RVs.
There are no public shuttle services directly to Indian Cove Campground. You will need your own vehicle to access the campground.
The roads leading to and within Indian Cove are paved and well-maintained. However, be mindful of potential wildlife on the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations for Indian Cove Campground are exclusively made through Recreation.gov. It's highly recommended to book as far in advance as possible, as sites are popular.
Camping fees at Indian Cove Campground are typically around $35 per night per campsite. Prices can vary, so check Recreation.gov for the most current rates.
It is extremely difficult to get a campsite at Indian Cove without a reservation, especially during peak season. It's best to secure your spot online in advance.
Indian Cove Campground is open year-round. Check-in and check-out times are typically around noon, but confirm with your reservation details.
While Indian Cove Campground is managed by the NPS, you will need to pay the standard Joshua Tree National Park entrance fee if you plan to explore other areas of the park. The campground fee covers your stay.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Indian Cove offers vault toilets and picnic tables at each site. There are no showers, potable water, or electrical hookups. Fire rings with grills are also provided. +1
No, there is generally no cell phone reception or Wi-Fi available at Indian Cove Campground. Be prepared to disconnect.
You might encounter desert tortoises, lizards, various birds, and small mammals. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Yes, campfires are allowed in the provided fire rings, but always check for current fire restrictions with the park service before your visit.
Indian Cove is famous for rock climbing and bouldering. Hiking trails, stargazing, and exploring the unique rock formations are also popular activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Indian Cove Campground is a primitive camping area with no food services. The nearest towns, Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree, have restaurants and grocery stores.
Yes, each campsite has a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking meals. Remember to bring all your own food and cooking supplies.
Pack non-perishable food items and plenty of water. Consider easy-to-prepare meals and snacks suitable for camping.
Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient spot for outdoor dining.
Stock up on groceries in towns like Yucca Valley, Twentynine Palms, or Joshua Tree before you arrive at the campground.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers dramatic lighting for the rock formations. Nighttime is ideal for astrophotography due to minimal light pollution.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast desert landscapes and rock formations. A tripod is essential for night photography.
The entire campground is photogenic! Explore the base of the rock formations and higher vantage points for unique perspectives.
Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance. Early mornings and late afternoons are often best for spotting wildlife.
Harsh midday sun can be challenging. Be prepared for dust and wind, and protect your gear accordingly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that there's no running water or cell service, so be extra prepared with plenty of water and snacks. Downloading offline games or books can be helpful for downtime. The stargazing opportunities are also a magical experience for children, offering a chance to connect with nature and the cosmos.
+1🧗♀️ Rock Climbers & Hikers
Hikers will also find plenty to explore. While there aren't extensive marked trails directly from the campground, the surrounding rock formations offer incredible opportunities for scrambling and exploration. The unique desert flora and fauna add to the hiking experience. Remember to carry ample water and wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.
🌌 Stargazers & Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will be captivated by the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert. The unique Joshua trees, the sculpted rock formations, and the resilient desert wildlife create a serene and awe-inspiring environment. It's a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural world.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Rock Climbing at Indian Cove
Many visitors come specifically for the climbing opportunities. Professional guides and climbing groups often host events and workshops in the area, making it a vibrant hub for the climbing community. It's advisable for climbers to bring their own gear or arrange rentals in advance, as services are limited at the campground. Always prioritize safety, check route conditions, and be aware of your surroundings.
Beyond the technical climbs, the sheer scale and beauty of the rock formations make them a photographer's dream and a fantastic playground for exploration. Even if you're not a climber, scrambling around the base of these giants is an unforgettable experience.
+1The Joshua Tree Desert Experience
Visitors often describe the feeling of being in a place that is both ancient and alive. The clear desert air makes for incredible stargazing, with the Milky Way often visible on clear nights. The silence, broken only by the wind or the call of desert wildlife, is a significant part of the allure.
It's important to respect the fragile desert ecosystem. Stay on marked trails, pack out everything you pack in, and be mindful of the extreme temperatures, especially during summer. The desert can be unforgiving, but with proper preparation, it offers a profoundly rewarding and memorable adventure.
Camping Essentials for Indian Cove
Beyond water, consider bringing sturdy tent stakes as the ground can be very hard and rocky, making it difficult to secure a tent with standard stakes. Sun protection is also vital, including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, as the desert sun can be intense even outside of summer. Don't forget a first-aid kit for minor injuries.
Given the lack of cell service, downloading offline maps and informing someone of your itinerary is crucial for safety. A headlamp or flashlight is essential for navigating the campground after dark, especially for stargazing or visiting the vault toilets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit