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, stargazing is magnificent. Beautiful spring wildflowers (best February - March) attract many campers.
Ryan Campground features 31 standard campsites, all first come, first served. Ryan Campground has 3 bicycle campsites for up to 3 people and 3 tents each. 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 |
| Camping Season: | The main campground is open year-round.
The equestrian camp is open from October through May. |
| 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 |
| Ryan Campground Reservations | |
|---|---|
| No Reservations: | Ryan Campground campsites are all 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: | $30 per night
Bicycle Campsites - $5 per night |
| Campground Photos and Map: | Ryan Campground Photos and Map |
| Check-in, check-out: | Check-in: Noon Check-out: 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. |
| Updates | Last Updated January 2025 |
Ryan Campground's Equestrian camp is available for those with horses or mules 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. Fees - $30 per night
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.
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.
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.
Check Joshua Tree National Park Camping for any park and campground updates.
Reviews from Previous Campers
2022 - 2024