Black Rock Campground

California's Best Camping

Joshua Tree National Park, CA
Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Black Rock Campground

Joshua Tree National Park


Black Rock Campground

Black Rock Campground is in the northwest corner of Joshua Tree National Park. The campground is amid one of the thickest groves of Joshua Trees. Winter temperatures range between 70 and 90 degrees. Campers at Black Rock Campground may be fortunate enough to catch a view of the elusive desert tortoise. Birders enjoy a variety of species in the area. Rock climbers are within a half-hour drive of popular routes.

Black Rock Campground features 51 campsites designated as tent-only. The remaining 38 sites can accommodate RVs, trailer, and tents. Black Rock Campground includes a Horse Camp.

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Black Rock Campground Basics
Black Rock Campground Location: northwest corner of Joshua Tree National Park, near west entrance station
Elevation: 4,000 feet
Mileage/Driving Time: Yucca Valley - 6 miles, 12 minutes
Riverside - 77 miles, 1:32
Number of Sites: 89
Camping Season: Open year-round
Max. People per Site: 6 (including children)
Vehicles/tents per Site: 2 vehicles (if space permits), 3 tents
Pets: On leash, always attended
Operated by Joshua Tree National Park
Park information: (760) 367-5500

Reservations for Black Rock Campground
Reservations recommended: Black Rock Campground reservations can be made for camping dates from September through May. During that time, all sites are available by reservation only.
Sites 40-60 and 66-99 are closed June 10 through August 29. All other sites then are first-come, first served.
Booking Window: From 1 day up to 6 months in advance of arrival.
Camping Limit: 14 nights from October through May with 30 days total per year
Maximum RV/Trailer Length: 25 - 35 feet, varies by site
Accessible Sites: #61
Fees: $25 per night
Campground Photos and Map: Black Rock Campground Photos and Map
Reservations: Black Rock Campground Reservations
Check-in, check-out: Noon, Noon

Black Rock Campground Amenities
Campsites: Picnic table, fire grate
Campground: restrooms with flush toilets, tap water, amphitheater
Showers and laundry: In Yucca Valley, 5 miles
Dump station: Yes
Attractions near Black Rock Campground:
  • Tour the Black Rock Nature Center.
  • Stop at Hi View.
  • Spend some time in the Joshua Tree Visitor Center.
  • Explore the California Riding and Hiking Trail.
  • Attend ranger-led interpretive programs.





Black Rock Equestrian Camp

Black Rock Campground has 20 equestrian sites aside from the main campground. Only campers with horses may camp there. Restrooms are available in the adjacent family campground. There are now four 12x12 corrals available first-come, first-served. Equestrians should come prepared with their own portable corrals in case the four provided corals are full. The campground has shared hitching posts, fire pits and picnic tables.

Reservations are non-site-specific. A site will be assigned upon arrival. For more details, call the park. Equestrians should familiarize themselves with park rules regarding horses: Joshua Tree Horseback Riding.
Reservations: Black Rock Equestrian Camp
Fee: $20 per night

General Camping Information for
Joshua Tree National Park

Opening and closing dates of campgrounds are only estimates, usually dependent on weather 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.

Accessible Sites

Designated Accessible sites are usually reserved for people with disabilities who have a vehicle displaying an accessible parking placard or license plate.




Joshua Tree National Park

Reviews from Previous Campers

- 2023 - 2024 -

  • Everything was clean.
  • Campground roads in terrible condition.
  • Not too cold at night.
  • Quiet at night except for little critters scurrying in the bushes.
  • Short drive back to stores to get supplies.

Joshua Tree National Park
Attractions and Activities

Visitors to Joshua Tree National Park have many interesting places to explore and scenic vistas to enjoy. Campers at Black Rock Campground are near some of the best examples of the famous Joshua Trees. Other park attractions are nearby.

  • Stroll through Black Rock Canyon with its magnificent Joshua Tree forest.
  • Visit Cottonwood Springs and discover its cultural history. Find good hiking and birding there.
  • Indian Cove has enjoyable nature trails featuring the Wonderland of Rocks.
  • Keys View offers panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault, and the high peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio.
  • Skull Rock is certain to make you pull out your camera.
  • Wildflower viewing is best from February through June.
  • Ranger-led Programs include nature walks and campfire programs. See the- Joshua Tree Calendar of Events.
  • Enjoy the 18-mile geology motor tour.
  • Take a guided ranger tour of historic Keys Ranch.

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Important Black Rock Campground Regulations

  1. Store food and scented items in a secure place that will prevent access by wildlife.
  2. Generators may only be operated from 7 AM to 9 AM, Noon to 2 PM, and 5 PM to 7 PM.
  3. Campfires are only allowed in existing fire rings or grades in developed campgrounds. Bring your own firewood.
  4. All tents, tarps, and other camping equipment must be set up within 25 feet (7.6 m) of the picnic table or fire grate.
  5. Towed Vehicles are counted as one of the two vehicles permitted per campsite.

    Check Joshua Tree National Park Camping for any park and campground updates.

General Camping Information

Not all campsites can accommodate trailers or RVs of all lengths. Check carefully on the reservation site when you make your reservation to be sure your vehicle will fit your campsite. Purchase firewood locally to avoid spreading pests.

Accessible Sites

Designated Accessible sites are usually reserved for people with disabilities who have a vehicle displaying an accessible parking placard or license plate.