Indian Cove

Indian Cove in Joshua Tree National Park is located on the west end of Twentynine Palms city limits and is accessible by turning south off of Twentynine Palms Highway (Highway 62) on Indian Cove Road, which dead-ends at this secluded area. A sprawling campground is enclosed by towering rock formations, making the area a popular place for rock climbing. Many campsites are tucked around the rocks, providing naturalistic tent camping. Other sites offer space for RVs. There is a separate camping area for groups. On the west side of the campground, the half-mile Indian Cove Nature Trail highlights the plants, animals, and seasonal Indian occupation of the area — a loop hike that's great for beginners. A picnic area is located on the far eastern side of the campground. For backcountry campers, the Indian Cove Wilderness Backpacking Board provides parking and access to the Boy Scout Trail. Indian Cove also features an amphitheater.

IndianCove_JoshuaTreeNationalPark_NPSPhotoWhen you turn south off the highway on Indian Cove Road, drive to the ranger station, where parking is available. The Boy Scout Trail starts a short distance away. To access the Indian Cove campground, amphitheater, picnic, and climbing areas, continue on the road.

Indian Cove has 101 campsites, including 13 group campsites. There are vault toilets, but no showers and no water in the campground. Campers register at the ranger station located at the entrance. Water is available there. Reservations are available at Indian Cove Campground during the busy season from October through May. Book a site online at recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777 up to six months in advance of your visit. Group campsites are available by reservation only.

Campgrounds are open 24 hours a day. Check in and check out are at noon. Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Note: Cell phone service is spotty and unreliable, and there is no internet connectivity.

IndianCove_JoshuaTreeNationalPark_NPS_Hannah Schwalbe

Individual campsites at Indian Cove: Camping fees must be paid within one hour of selecting a campsite. A maximum of six people, three tents, and two cars may occupy an individual campsite, but only if there is space available. Some sites only have enough parking for one vehicle. Cost: $20.

Group campsites at Indian Cove: There are 13 group campsites available at Indian Cove Campground. These group sites can accommodate RVs or trailers, but maximum combined length can be no more than 25 feet. Cost: $35-50 depending on site capacity.

Alert: Because of the park’s very dry climate, fire danger in Joshua Tree is almost always very high. Be cautious. Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings or grills that are found in park campgrounds or picnic areas. Keep fires small. Bring your own firewood. You may not gather park vegetation, whether living or dead, to fuel your campfire. If you plan to have a campfire, bring extra water to douse it thoroughly.

For reservation information, click here.