California / San Bernardino County / Joshua Tree National Park

Indian Cove Campground

Open — Open year-round. Reservations are required and can be made same-day or up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov. Fire restrictions prohibit charcoal and wood fires June 15 through October 1; only gas or propane stoves permitted during that period.

About

Indian Cove Campground lies amid the huge, steep rock formations for which Joshua Tree National Park is known. Because of its proximity to many rock climbing routes, it is a popular camping location for climbers. The campground features 101 individual campsites and 13 tent-only group sites, all nestled on flat, sandy surfaces between large boulders that tower in unique shapes over the campground. The rocks were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and have been exposed and shaped by wind and water over time. They brighten with soft pastel hues during the morning and evening sunlight and glow with campfire light by night. Located at an elevation of 3,200 feet, Indian Cove is situated on the north side of the park and is accessible via Indian Cove Road off Highway 62. The campground offers several hiking trails, including a short interpretive nature trail, and countless rock formations to explore. Clear desert skies are perfect for star-gazing and night photography. Visitors may encounter typical desert inhabitants such as lizards, rattlesnakes, scorpions, ravens, squirrels and desert tarantulas during the cooler months. Note that there is no direct vehicle access to the main park from Indian Cove; the $30 park entrance fee is separate from the camping fee.

Directions

Take Interstate 10 to State Highway 62. Go past the West Entrance at Park Boulevard and continue east another 9.3 miles. Turn south on Indian Cove Road. Follow the road into the campground. If coming from the east, follow Highway 62 approximately seven miles west of Twentynine Palms and turn south onto Indian Cove Road.

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