How To Visit Joshua Tree National Park

Above, The Beast at Cottonwood Campgrouna in Joshua Tree National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Four years ago (it's hard to believe it's already that long ago), I took a trip to the General Patton Memorial Museum at Chiriaco Summit, California.

After visiting the museum, I headed to nearby Joshua Tree National Park and entered through the South Entrance off Interstate 10. I spent the night at the Cottonwood Campground. Since it was late autumn, I had no problem in getting a campsite. This was the first time I've stepped foot inside the park since it was changed to a national park. I had been there a few other times when it was a national monument.

It is the closest national park to the Los Angeles metropolitan area and it sees about 3 million visitors annually.

Travel Awaits blog has posted an article on how to visit Joshua Tree National Park.

It begins with:

The open desert skies, the abundant wildlife, and, of course, the namesake Joshua tree all inspire wonderment and admiration in those who visit Joshua Tree National Park. 

The Joshua tree, part of the Agave family, is found in a certain part of the Mojave Desert. Its unique, twisted shape makes it a distinct part of the landscape -- and makes Joshua Tree one of the most spectacular national parks in the United States. Almost 3 million people visit Joshua Tree National Park each year to see these unique plants, camp under the stars, and hike through massive boulders. 

Here's everything you need to know before planning a visit to this wonderful place.

To read more, go here.