Joshua Tree Backpacking Permit: Do You Need One?

When I first posted this in January 2023, Joshua Tree National Park had just announced a new Joshua Tree Backpacking Permit system that went into effect on March 1, 2023. These permit rules remain in effect today (2025). In this post, I break down the current Joshua Tree Backpacking Permit requirements, explain how to get one, and share tips on saving money while backpacking in National Parks.

About Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is in Southern California. It is a desert full of iconic Joshua trees and large rock formations. The park covers rugged, wide-open terrain. It lies where the high Mojave Desert meets the low Colorado Desert. This creates a unique ecosystem. Outdoor lovers come from all over to explore it.

During the day, golden sunlight casts dramatic shadows across the rocky landscape. At night, the park turns into a true billion-star hotel, one of the best places for stargazing. For me, Joshua Tree is more than a national park; it’s a place of peace, adventure, and breathtaking solitude.

Ways to Save Money on Backpacking in National Parks

1. Get the America the Beautiful Pass

If you visit three or more national parks each year, this $80 pass is totally worth it. It gives you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges.

Why it’s a smart buy:

• Unlimited Entry: No more paying individual park fees.
• Cost-Effective: Saves money fast if you visit often.
• Supports Parks: Your fee helps maintain public lands.
• Simple Access: No need to buy separate entry passes.

Pro tip: Seniors, military members, fourth graders, and people with permanent disabilities may qualify for a discounted or free version.

2. Renting Backpacking Gear from REI

If you’re traveling light or just testing the waters with backpacking, REI’s rental gear program can save you a ton.

What makes it great:

• Rent only what you need—backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and more.
• Affordable rates and high-quality gear.
• Ideal for beginners who don’t want to commit to buying everything.

Bonus: A one-time $30 REI lifetime membership gets you discounts on rentals, member-only deals, and an annual dividend on purchases.

📍 Tip: Browse REI rental prices and locations ahead of your trip to see what’s available near you.

Backpacking in Joshua Tree National Park

Backpacking in Joshua Tree National Park is more than just a physical adventure; it’s a transformative experience. Carrying only the essentials, disconnecting from daily life, and immersing yourself in Joshua Tree’s raw desert beauty is unmatched.

Joshua Tree backpacking is accessible, with the park just 2.5 hours away from many Southern California locations. After my first overnight trip, I was hooked by the solitude, silence, and vast wilderness that Joshua Tree offers.

Seasonal Backpacking Tips for Joshua Tree:

• Summer: Start hiking late afternoon or early evening to avoid extreme heat. Camp near trailheads to shorten your return hike.
• Winter: Bring warm layers, as desert nights can get freezing cold despite mild days.

Joshua Tree Backpacking Permit Rules (Effective March 1, 2023)

Important: These rules are only for backcountry camping, camping in the wilderness away from developed sites. If you want to camp at a Joshua Tree campground (car camping), these permit rules don’t apply. Some campgrounds are first-come, first-served. Others need reservations.

Joshua Tree Backpacking Permit Rules

Joshua Tree National Park introduced a new backpacking permit system starting March 1, 2023. Here’s what you need to know about the updated rules:

How to Get a Joshua Tree Backpacking Permit

• Reservations are required and can easily be made online at Recreation.gov.
• A limited number of same-day permits may be available online, by phone at (760) 367-5554, or in person at the park headquarters in Twentynine Palms.
• The permit costs $6 (non-refundable) and covers groups of 1 to 12 people for stays ranging from 1 to 14 nights.
• Before completing your reservation, backpackers must watch an informational video and acknowledge park guidelines. The video is available through the reservation system or in the confirmation email after booking.

Backcountry Camping Rules

• New designated wilderness backpacking zones now include 14 specific campsites along the Boy Scout Trail.
• In all other wilderness zones:
  • Camp at least 1 mile (1.6 km) away from backcountry trailheads.
  • Camp at least ½ mile (0.8 km) away from roads.
  • Set up camp at least 200 feet (61 meters) from trails.
• Note: The old yellow self-registration permits are no longer valid as of March 1, 2023.

Why These Changes Were Made

The updated backpacking permit system aims to:

• Reduce overcrowding and improve visitor experience.
• Protect Joshua Tree’s wilderness by encouraging sustainable backpacking practices.
• Reinforce Leave No Trace principles through mandatory educational materials.

These new rules will help keep Joshua Tree’s backcountry pristine and enjoyable for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joshua Tree Backpacking Permits

Do I need a permit to backpack in Joshua Tree National Park?

Yes. Since March 1, 2023, Joshua Tree requires all overnight backpackers in the backcountry to have a backpacking permit. This helps manage visitor numbers and protect the park’s wilderness.

How do I get a Joshua Tree backpacking permit?

You can reserve a permit online at Recreation.gov. Limited same-day permits may also be available online, by phone at (760) 367-5554, or in person at the park headquarters in Twentynine Palms.

How much does a Joshua Tree backpacking permit cost?

The permit costs $6 per trip (non-refundable) and covers 1 to 12 people for 1 to 14 nights.

Are these permits required for campground camping in Joshua Tree?

No. These new permit rules apply only to backcountry camping (wilderness camping away from developed campgrounds). For car camping at established campgrounds, you need a separate reservation if required. Some campgrounds are first-come, first-served.

Can I camp anywhere along the Boy Scout Trail?

No. Previously, camping anywhere along the Boy Scout Trail was allowed. Now, you must reserve one of the 14 designated campsites on the trail.

What are the camping rules for backcountry camping?

• Camp at least 1 mile (1.6 km) from backcountry trailheads.
• Camp at least ½ mile (0.8 km) from roads.
• Set up camp at least 200 feet (61 meters) from trails.

What happens if I don’t watch the required informational video?

Watching the video is mandatory to complete your reservation. Your permit isn’t valid until you’ve watched it, and park staff may follow up by phone or email if you skip it.

Can I still get a same-day permit for Joshua Tree backpacking?

Yes. A limited number of same-day permits are available, but they are not guaranteed. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy seasons.

Why did Joshua Tree National Park change the backpacking permit system?

The changes aim to reduce overcrowding, protect sensitive desert ecosystems, and ensure all backpackers are informed about Leave No Trace principles through required education.

Do I need to pay an entrance fee in addition to the Joshua Tree Backpacking Permit?

Yes. The $6 backpacking permit does not cover the park entrance fee. You must pay the entrance fee unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass, which grants access to Joshua Tree and other federal recreation sites.

Final Thoughts on Joshua Tree Backpacking Permit

The new permit system changed some things. But for me, the impact is small. I can still get same-day permits. This lets me stay spontaneous.

Before, we could camp anywhere along the Boy Scout Trail. Now, you must reserve a specific campsite. My favorite spot wasn’t chosen, so I can’t camp there anymore. I pay $6 for each night I camp. I also watch the same video every time. It can get repetitive. If I skip it, they call and email me to remind me.

These rules help protect Joshua Tree’s fragile desert. They also encourage better planning and education. If you plan a trip, book your permit early or try for a same-day permit. And remember, you still need to pay the park entrance fee, unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass.

Post originally published on January 31, 2023, and last updated on October 3, 2025.