Visitors to Joshua Tree National Park appreciate the stark beauty of the desert and the wonderful flora and fauna of the region. Campers at Ryan Campground are close to challenging rock climbing and excellent horseback riding trails.
Ryan Campground is in the central part of Joshua Tree National Park, not far from 5,461-foot Ryan Mountain. Visitors to Ryan Campground find nearby bouldering and rock climbing. A nearby trail leads to the summit of Ryan Mountain. At night, star-gazing is magnificent. Beautiful spring wildflowers (best February - March) attract many campers.
All the 31 standard campsites at Ryan Campground are first come, first served. Only the Equestrian Camp accepts reservations. The campground can be windy at times, however some sites are shielded by boulders. There is no water at the campground.
| Ryan Campground Basics | |
|---|---|
| Ryan Campground Location: | off Park Boulevard., central Joshua Tree National Park |
| Elevation: | 4,300 feet |
| Mileage/Driving Time: | Joshua Tree - 19 miles, 40 minutes
Riverside - 96 miles, 2;00 |
| Number of Sites: | 31 |
| Open - Closed: | The main campground is open year-round.
The equestrian camp is open October - May. |
| Max. People per Site: | 6 (including children) |
| Vehicles/tents per Site: | 2 vehicles (if space permits), 3 tents |
| Pets: | On leash, always attended |
| Park information: | (760) 367-5500 |
| Reservations | |
|---|---|
| No Reservations: | first come, first served |
| Camping Limit: | 14 nights from October through May with 30 days total per year |
| Maximum RV/Trailer Length: | 25 feet total length |
| Accessible Sites: | None designated |
| Fees: | $15 |
| Campground Map: | Ryan Campground Map |
| Check-in, check-out: | Noon, Noon |
| Ryan Campground Amenities | |
|---|---|
| Campsites: | Picnic table, fire grate |
| Campground: | Vault toilets, no water |
| Showers and laundry: | No |
| Dump station: | No |
| Attractions near Ryan Campground: | Hike up the Ryan Mountain Trail. Hike or ride on the nearby California Riding and Hiking Trail. Enjoy the informative Cap Rock Nature Trail. |
Ryan Campground's Equestrian camp is available for those with horses for $15 per night. Four campsites each have a picnic table and fire ring. There is no water available at the campground. Call 760-367-5545, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm, to make reservations for Ryan Campground's equestrian campsites.
Opening and closing dates of campgrounds are only estimates, usually dependent on snow conditions. Not all campsites can accommodate trailers or RVs of all lengths. Check carefully on the website when you make your reservation to be sure your vehicle will fit your campsite.
Water is not available at all campgrounds. Plan ahead and carry plenty of water.
Designated Accessible sites are usually reserved for people with disabilities who have a vehicle displaying an accessible parking placard or license plate.