Joshua Tree National Park - Visitor Information

Joshua Tree Weather

The best time of the year to attend a workshop in Joshua Tree National Park depends on what you're looking for - and your tolerance for temperature.

Average High and Low Temperature in Joshua Tree

Seasons

March, April, and May (Busiest)

Spring is one of the best times to visit Joshua Tree National Park as temperatures are mild, with average daytime highs of 60°-80°F (15°- 26°C) and crisp at night. It's also the best time of year to see beautiful wildflowers. The only downside at this time of year is the crowds, but by visiting mid-week, the crowds aren't bad.

June, July, and August (Quietest)

Summer in Joshua Tree National Park is the least popular season due to the hot daytime temperatures. With average daytime highs of 90°-105°F (32°-40˚C), outdoor activities like hiking are uncomfortable. However, limiting physical activity to the early morning or late afternoon and drinking plenty of water allows you to enjoy Joshua Tree with only limited crowds. Summer is also a great time for stargazing, as temperatures are delightful at night.

September, October, and November

Autumn (Fall) is another great time to visit Joshua Tree National Park. While temperatures are still hot in September, they start to cool off in October, with average daytime highs of 60°-85°F (15°-29°C). October and November are two of the best months to visit Joshua Tree, as not only are the temperatures pleasant, but the crowds are lower than in the spring.

December, January, and February

The relatively chilly temperatures of winter, with average daytime highs of 50°-75°F (10°-24°C) in Joshua Tree National Park, tend to keep many visitors away. Perfect weather is frequent; however, high winds can make even sunny days seem cold, and nighttime temperatures can fall below zero. Snowfall is rare in Joshua Tree, but it sometimes happens - and when it does, it's beautiful!

Joshua Tree Map and Directions

Joshua Tree National Park Hours

The park is open 24 hours a day.

Joshua Tree National Park Entrances

The park has three entrances, with the Joshua Tree West entrance (approximately 5 miles south of State Route 62 from downtown Joshua Tree) being the busiest, so you may have an extended queue to get in.

If possible, I suggest using the Joshua Tree North entrance (approximately 4 miles south of State Route 62 from Twentynine Palms) as there are typically either no or very short queues. This entrance also allows you to stop and enjoy the Oasis of Mara, a spring-fed oasis, a nature trail, and the site of a Serrano settlement.

Alternatively, you can use the Joshua Tree South Entrance (approximately 1 mile north of the I-10); however, that entrance is 37 miles from Park Blvd, along which most of the popular locations are located. The South entrance is the closest entrance to the Cottonwood Campground in Joshua Tree.