Two Day Camping and Hiking in Joshua Tree National Park

2 Days

4-10 Guests

Pick-up 7:30AM

Fall-Spring

per person

$429.00

Scheduling tip

This is one of our top-selling tours, and spaces fill up fast! We recommend making your reservation well in advance to secure your spot. If your preferred date is unavailable, we will do our best to find an alternative for you.

Brief Description

Embark on a thrilling 2-day, all-inclusive weekend getaway to Joshua Tree National Park. This adventure is perfect for those seeking to explore the rugged beauty of the desert, with its iconic Joshua Trees, stunning rock formations, and vast, star-filled skies. Your journey begins on Saturday morning with a comfortable ride to the park, followed by a day of exploration, visiting must-see sites like Keys View, Arch Rock Trail, and the Cholla Cactus Garden. After a day of adventure, unwind at the campsite with a delicious dinner, a cozy campfire, and some unforgettable stargazing.

On Sunday, the adventure continues with a hearty breakfast and more exploration of Joshua Tree’s hidden gems. From the serene Hidden Valley to the historic Barker Dam, you’ll experience the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. With all meals, drinks, and camping essentials provided, this worry-free weekend is designed to let you fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Joshua Tree while connecting with fellow adventurers. Return home Sunday evening, refreshed and inspired by your desert escape.

  • All-inclusive adventure

  • 2 Days, 1 night

  • Camping in Joshua Tree National Park

  • Campsite activities (S'mores, games, campfire)

  • Hike and explore Joshua Tree National Park

  • Restrooms: Available On Site (please bring personal toiletries)

  • Guest age: 21+, no pets are allowed

  • Group size: 4 - 10

  • Accommodation Type: Camping in Tents

Highlights
Departure
  • On the day of the trip, meet us at:

    Scripps Ranch/Poway Park and Ride

    12016 Scripps Highlands Dr, San Diego, CA 92131

  • You can leave your vehicle at the Park & Ride parking lot.

  • Pick up time for this trip is at 7:30AM

What is included
  • All transportation, including from the meetup location, to the trip, around the location, and back

  • Top-of-the-line tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag

  • Camping gear – lantern, headlamp, camping chair, blanket

  • All meals, including snacks and non-alcoholic beverages

  • Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes.

  • Any fees and entrance costs

  • Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device

What is not included
  • Clothes, rain gear, footwear

  • Alcohol - you may bring your own! (BYOB)

  • Gratuities (not expected, but always welcome)

Guide: Kamil K.

Kamil, an enthusiastic tour guide with six years of outdoor experience, loves to educate and inspire. His expertise in hiking, off-roading, and camping, along with his hosting and cooking skills, ensures every adventure is memorable and enriching.

Campsite Location
  • We utilize a variety of public/private camp grounds in or around Joshua Tree National Park. Exact location will depend on availability and date of the trip.

Joshua Tree National Park Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Saturday - Arrival and Exploration

7:30 AM - 8:00 AM: Pickup and Introduction

- Meet at the designated park and ride location.

- Start the day with a light breakfast and introductions to fellow adventurers and guides.

10:30 AM: Arrival at Joshua Tree National Park

- Arrive at the campsite within Joshua Tree National Park. The desert landscape, dotted with iconic Joshua Trees and rock formations, sets the tone for an adventurous weekend.

- Guests will set up their tents while the guides prepare a quick, satisfying lunch.

12:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Exploring Joshua Tree National Park

- After lunch, embark on a guided exploration of JTNP’s most breathtaking sites:

- Keys View: Take in panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, San Andreas Fault, and on clear days, the Salton Sea and Mexico.

- Arch Rock Trail: A short hike to one of the park’s most famous natural rock formations.

- Cholla Cactus Garden: Wander through a dense concentration of cholla cacti, a surreal landscape perfect for photography.

- Cottonwood Springs: Discover the oasis where Native American history and desert beauty meet.

5:30 PM - 7:30 PM: Dinner and Campfire

- Return to the campsite and unwind with a hearty dinner prepared by the guides.

- As night falls, gather around the campfire for a relaxing evening of bonding, storytelling, and s’mores.

- End the night with stargazing in one of the best dark sky locations in California.

Day 2: Sunday - Further Exploration and Return

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Breakfast

- Wake up to a delicious breakfast featuring all your favorite staples, from eggs and bacon to pancakes and fresh coffee.

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM: Continued Exploration of Joshua Tree National Park

- Spend the day exploring more of the park’s hidden gems and trails. The day’s activities may include:

- Hidden Valley: A loop trail that winds through a secluded valley surrounded by towering rock formations.

- Barker Dam: A historic dam with a short trail offering views of water, wildlife, and Native American petroglyphs.

- Skull Rock: A fun stop to see a granite rock naturally eroded to resemble a human skull.

- Break for a quick lunch around noon to recharge.

4:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Sunset and Departure

- Continue exploring until the sun begins to set, capturing the park’s stunning desert hues.

- Begin the journey back to the original pick-up spot, arriving by 7:00-7:30 PM.

What to bring with you
  • Clothing:

    • Weather-Appropriate Clothing (layers, including base layers, insulating layers, and a waterproof jacket)

    • Hiking Boots/Shoes

    • Hat, Gloves, and Scarf (for colder weather)

    • Swimwear (if there's an opportunity to swim or if needed)

    • Socks (extra pairs)

    • Comfortable Daywear (for camp and exploring)

    Personal Items:

    • Sunscreen and Lip Balm with SPF

    • Insect Repellent

    • Personal Hygiene Items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)

    • Towel (quick-dry)

    • First Aid Kit (basic supplies)

    • Medication (if needed)

    Cooking & Eating Gear:

    • Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration System

    • Snacks

    Technology:

    • Smartphone (for navigation, photos, and app usage)

    Fun Outdoor Apps:

    • Stellarium or SkySafari (for stargazing and identifying constellations)

    • iNaturalist or PlantNet (for identifying wildlife, plants, and flora)

    Optional but Useful:

    • Camera (for photos)

    • Notebook and Pen (for journaling or notes)

    • Binoculars (for wildlife watching)

Other Details

New to hiking or camping? Don’t worry! We provide all the essential gear and help you set it up. Worried about the hikes? Our guides will choose trails that match your group’s abilities. Over the weekend, you’ll journey through the land, moving from one trailhead to the next. Marvel at the stunning scenery as you hike or explore many iconic locations.

If you have any questions about this adventure, please reach out to us. For additional adventure options, explore our other options.

Weather Permitting Activities…

Some activities may be unavailable due to extreme weather or road closures. We will do our best to arrange alternative activities if necessary.

Our expertise and care

This is one of our top-selling tours, and spaces fill up fast! We recommend making your reservation well in advance to secure your spot. If your preferred date is unavailable, we will do our best to find an alternative for you.

Guest reviews

Discover what our guests think about our adventures

Brian Moten

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man standing near balcony

I am extremely satisfied with this product! It exceeded my expectations with its quality and performance. The customer service was excellent, and delivery was prompt. I highly recommend this to everyone.

woman wearing black crew-neck shirt
woman wearing black crew-neck shirt

Clarice Turner

★★★★★

I am extremely satisfied with this product! It exceeded my expectations with its quality and performance. The customer service was excellent, and delivery was prompt. I highly recommend this to everyone.

★★★★★
Additional Information

Download a printable copy of the full itinerary

Guide to camping and outdoors

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person writing bucket list on book