Joshua Tree Festival

The campground at Joshua Tree can be generously described as ‘cozy,’ so be prepared to get to know your neighbors. It’s also first-come, first-served, and there aren’t a lot of rules regarding the size of sites, so even if you’ve reserved an RV site, it’s best to get there early to make sure you and your fellow festival goers have room to move. Hot showers are free, and there’s a cool-down shower in case you get too hot (it is the desert, after all). There are generally a few vault toilets on site, so lines don’t get too long. While the concert bowl at Joshua Tree is well shaded, not all of the campground is, so you may want to bring some sort of shade structure with you.

The area around Joshua Tree is one of the hottest spots for camping in Southern California, so you should have no trouble finding an alternative staying spot. There are several RV parks with full hookups right in town. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can get some peace and quiet and stay under the stars in a national park or wilderness area.

Though Joshua Tree doesn’t have any official policies on bikes or golf carts, most people get around the festival grounds on foot. The area is pretty compact, and both the parking lot and campground are right next to the action. In terms of accessibility, there are several ADA-accessible parking spots available; it’s best to get in contact beforehand to make sure you get your spot. The grounds are relatively flat, and it should not be difficult to maneuver a wheelchair or mobility scooter in most areas.

Spring and fall bring the most clement weather to this part of California, but you’re still in a desert; dress for the heat, and bring something to wrap up warm in once the sun goes down. The concert bowl is mercifully shaded, but you’ll want a broad-brimmed hat and some sunglasses for the walk to and from the campground. Bring sturdy, comfortable shoes and moisture-wicking socks, and remember that inventive festival fashion is a huge part of the Joshua Tree festival experience, so get creative!

It’s hard to overstate the importance of having a shade structure for the campground if you’re hanging out during the day. That desert sun can burn. You can bring chairs and blankets to concerts, but the festival is very particular about having a clear space in front of the stage so people can dance.

Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! Apply it liberally and often. There are free water stations dotted around the festival grounds, so bring a refillable bottle. Although there is a first aid tent, it never hurts to have your own kit. Joshua Tree is one of the most kid-friendly festivals out there, but it still gets pretty loud, so bring ear protection for smaller children.

You’re free to cook at the campsite, as long as any fires stay within the designated rings or you’re using a camp stove. You can also bring outside food and drink into the festival. The small general store at the campground stocks some food along with various camping essentials, but it’s a limited, expensive selection. You’ll find a decent selection of grocery stores in Joshua Tree.

A four-day wristband allows festival-goers to come and go as they please, so you can check out some of the restaurants in Joshua Tree at any time. The town is home to a delightful array of family-owned eateries, with cuisine ranging from woodfired pizza to authentic Mexican and quick Thai bites. You won’t find it difficult to get your hands on something gluten-free or vegan.

The food vendors in the gorgeous World Market area may be few in number, but they’re generally rich in quality, and there’s usually a decent variety of grub on offer. You can expect plenty of healthy options made with fresh fruit and vegetables, but you’ll also find some pretty good burgers and pizza. Most vendors at Joshua Tree take both card and cash, and there’s also an ATM on site. Outside of the food, the crafts on offer at the market are well worth a look.