Black Rock Campground
The Quick Take
Black Rock is the civilized outpost of Joshua Tree -- the campground that actually wants you to be comfortable. Unlike the park's more spartan interior campgrounds, Black Rock has running water, a dump station, and enough cell service to settle an argument about whether that's a coyote or someone's dog. Tucked into the northwest corner near Yucca Valley, it trades the iconic jumbled boulder landscapes of Hidden Valley or Jumbo Rocks for higher-elevation pinyon and juniper terrain with solid views of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. The proximity to town means you can grab forgotten supplies in minutes, which makes this feel less like roughing it and more like car camping with a national park address. Choose Black Rock if you're traveling with kids, hauling an RV, or want a base camp where the basics are covered so you can spend your energy on the trails instead of logistics.
Booking
Reserve Your Campsite
All 99 sites are reservable.
Book at Joshua Tree LodgesWhat You Get
Sites & Setup
RV Information
RVs allowed. No electrical hookups.
Accessibility
61 ADA-accessible campsites. Accessible restrooms available. Most campsites have uneven terrain. Many roads are unpaved. The paved roads are crumbling and uneven. The Black Rock Nature Center has ADA access and the parking lot is well paved and flat. There is a wheelchair accessible restroom. Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Rules to Know
- Bear Safety:Food must be stored securely where wildlife cannot get to it.
- Checkout:Check in and check out are at noon.
Pro Tips
Black Rock sits at the trailhead for the 35-mile California Riding and Hiking Trail and has direct access to several moderate day hikes, including the rewarding climb to Warren Peak. Start early -- afternoon heat in the desert is no joke, and these trails offer minimal shade.
The equestrian staging area is a genuine asset if you're traveling with horses, but it also means the sites nearest that section can get dusty and noisy during busy weekends. Request a site on the eastern loop for more buffer from stock traffic.
Yucca Valley is five miles away with full grocery stores, gas, and restaurants. Stock up on firewood there -- Black Rock does not sell it on-site, and gathering wood in the park is prohibited. Bring more than you think you need; desert nights get cold fast, even in spring.
Photos
NPS/Hannah Schwalbe
NPS/Hannah Schwalbe
NPS/Hannah SchwalbeGetting There
Directions
Black Rock is just south of Yucca Valley. From Yucca Valley, turn south onto Palomar Ave. Palomar turns left onto Joshua Lane. Turn left onto San Marino Dr and continue onto Black Rock Canyon Road. Follow park signs.
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