California / Riverside County / Joshua Tree National Park

Sheep Pass Group

Open — Open year-round with reservations required through Recreation.gov. Fire restrictions are in effect June 15 through October 1, allowing only gas or propane stoves during that period.

About

Sheep Pass Group Campground is one of three group campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park and the only one dedicated entirely to groups. Located centrally within the park at 4,500 feet elevation, it offers six tent-only group sites that can accommodate between 10 and 60 people depending on the site. The campground is surrounded by the park's signature towering rock formations and distinctive Joshua trees, providing an iconic desert experience. The location provides excellent access to numerous hiking trails and popular rock climbing routes, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiast groups. The campground offers a mix of sun and shade throughout the day. Visitors can expect to see typical desert wildlife including lizards, rattlesnakes, scorpions, ravens, squirrels, coyotes, and occasionally desert tarantulas during cooler months. The distinctive rocks were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and glow with beautiful pastel hues during sunrise and sunset. Sheep Pass operates year-round with reservations required through Recreation.gov up to six months in advance. The campground is tents-only with RVs and habitable trailers prohibited. There is no water available on-site; the nearest potable water is at the Oasis Visitor Center or West Entrance, 13 miles away. Fire restrictions are in effect June 15 through October 1 annually, permitting only gas or propane stoves during that period.

Directions

Take Interstate 10 to Route 62. From the town of Joshua Tree, turn south on Park Boulevard and continue through the West Entrance. The campground is 13 miles from the entrance station and the city of Twentynine Palms.

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