Tips for Planning the Perfect Summer Vacation at Joshua Tree National Park
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According to USA Today , this desert oasis brings in 3 million visitors each year.
People arrive at Joshua Tree National Park to hike, climb, and explore the vast landscape, bizarre reaching trees, and everything it has to offer in recreation.
Its name comes from the oddly shaped, slow-growing Joshua tree which was named by Mormon settlers that were traveling through the Mojave Desert in the 1800s. They envisioned the biblical story of Joshua in which he reaches toward the sky as he prays.
In October of 2019, the park celebrated its 25th year in existence and remains a mecca of sorts for outdoor enthusiasts.
Located in southern California just outside Palm Springs, Joshua Tree makes for a beautiful vacation spot whether you are outdoorsy or not, because there is so much more to do than just spend the day in the park.
Where to Stay
Best Western Joshua Tree Hotel & Suites, Yucca Valley
Set “in the middle of it all”, this casual hotel is 1 mile from Desert Christ Park sculpture garden and 12 miles from Joshua Tree National Park.
The Best Western Joshua Tree Hotel & Suites offer simple, clean rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi. Some have kitchenettes and pull-out sofas so be sure to ask if these are important to you.
Kids age 12 and under stay at no charge and you can bring Fido too.
Guests give the complimentary hot breakfast high marks and appreciate the seasonal heated outdoor pool/hot tub, and coin-operated laundry facilities.
Pioneertown Motel
If camping isn’t your thing, and you prefer a nice bed to rest your weary body after a day outside, the Pioneertown Motel is an off-the-beaten path place to stay.