Ryan Campground

California's Best Camping

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

Ryan Campground

Joshua Tree National Park


Ryan Campground

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. 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.

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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: All campsites at Ryan Campground are 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: $20 per night
Bicycle Campsites - $5 per night
Campground Photos and Map: Ryan Campground Photos and 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 Equestrian Camp

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.

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.

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 Natiional Park rock climber

Joshua Tree National Park
Attractions and Activities

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.

  • 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.

Key Ryan Campground Regulations

  1. Campfires are only allowed in existing fire rings or grades in developed campgrounds. Bring your own firewood.
  2. Towed Vehicles are counted as one of the two vehicles permitted per campsite.
  3. Store food and scented items in a secure place that will prevent access by wildlife.
  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. Generators may only be operated from 7 AM to 9 AM, Noon to 2 PM, and 5 PM to 7 PM.

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