When I dropped off my permit in the designated backpacking permit box during a January overnight backpacking trip in Joshua Tree National Park, I noticed that Joshua Tree National Park is introducing new backpacking permit rules, effective March 1st, 2023! Below is a list of the new rules, and keep scrolling to see the actual announcement.

About Joshua Tree National Park

Nestled in Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is a surreal desert wonderland filled with iconic Joshua trees, massive rock formations, and endless stretches of rugged terrain. The park’s unique blend of the high Mojave Desert and low Colorado Desert creates a stunningly diverse ecosystem, making it a dream destination for outdoor lovers.

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

Ways to Save Money on Backpacking in National Parks

1. The America the Beautiful Pass

If you visit three or more national parks yearly, the America the Beautiful Pass is a must-have!

For $80 per year, this pass grants access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges. Here’s why it’s a great investment:

✅ Unlimited Entry: Skip entrance fees at national parks and federal lands.
✅ Cost-Effective: Saves money if you visit multiple parks annually.
✅ Supports Conservation: Pass fees contribute to maintaining parks.
✅ Convenience: No need to buy individual park passes.

Pro tip: If you qualify, discounted or free passes are available for seniors, military members, fourth-grade students, and people with permanent disabilities.

2. Renting Backpacking Gear from REI

Traveling light or just getting started with backpacking? REI’s rental gear program is a game-changer.

• High-quality gear available for rent, from backpacks to tents and sleeping bags.
• Affordable pricing—rent only what you need.
• Perfect for first-timers who want to try backpacking without investing in expensive equipment.

Bonus: Become an REI lifetime member for just $30, and enjoy rental discounts, exclusive deals, and dividends on purchases!

📍 Check out REI rental gear pricing and locations to plan your next trip.

Backpacking in Joshua Tree National Park

Backpacking isn’t just a physical adventure—it’s a transformative experience for the body and soul. The simplicity of carrying only the essentials, disconnecting from daily life, and immersing yourself in the raw beauty of nature is unmatched.

For me, Joshua Tree is the ultimate backpacking destination. It’s just 2.5 hours from home, and after my first overnight trip, I was completely hooked! The solitude, the silence, and the vast desert wilderness keep calling me back.

Seasonal Backpacking Tips

🌞 Summer: Start hiking later in the evening to avoid the heat. Camp close to the trailhead for a shorter hike back.
❄️ Winter: Pack extra layers, as desert nights get freezing!

Backpacking The California Riding & Hiking Trail (JTNP)

Backpacking The California Riding & Hiking Trail (JTNP)

Backpacking the California Riding & Hiking Trail in Joshua Tree National Park had been a dream of mine. I finally…

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

Here’s a breakdown of Joshua Tree’s new backpacking permit system:

How to Get a Permit

✔️ Advance reservations are now required and can be booked at Recreation.gov.
✔️ Limited same-day permits may be available online, by phone (760-367-5554), or at the park’s headquarters in Twentynine Palms.
✔️ The permit costs $6 (non-refundable) and covers 1-12 people for 1-14 nights.
✔️ Backpackers must watch an informational video and acknowledge park guidelines before completing their reservation. The video can be accessed through the reservation system or the confirmation email received after checkout on Recreation.gov.

Camping Rules

🏕️ New wilderness backpacking zones now include designated campsites along the Boy Scout Trail.
🏕️ All other zones:

• 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.

🚨 Important: The old yellow self-registration permits will no longer be valid after March 1!

Why These Changes?

The new permit system aims to:
✔️ Enhance visitor experience by reducing overcrowding.
✔️ Protect wilderness resources by ensuring sustainable backpacking practices.
✔️ Reinforce Leave No Trace principles through required educational materials.

With this system, Joshua Tree’s backcountry will remain pristine for future generations!

Final Thoughts on JT’s new backpacking permit rules

I personally think these new backpacking rules are a great step forward. While I’ll miss the flexibility of the old system, I appreciate that the changes will:

✅ Help protect the fragile desert ecosystem.
✅ Ensure all backpackers are educated on best practices.
✅ Encourage better trip planning (which I probably needed anyway!).

💡 Pro Tip: The new reservation system is already live, so if you’re planning a trip, book your permit now! And don’t forget, you still need to pay the national park entrance fee unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass.