Getting to Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park sits in CA, United States, with Coachella the nearest town of any size — about 17.5 mi (28.1 km) out, or roughly 42 min of driving.
Joshua Tree National Park does not gate the entrance itself. Specific roads, hikes, or tours still need a permit or timed ticket.
Drive times from Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park sits close enough to Constitución 1857 National Park, Death Valley National Park, Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park, and Channel Islands National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Constitución 1857 National Park | 123 mi (198 km) | 3 hr 22 min |
| Death Valley National Park | 177 mi (285 km) | 4 hr 39 min |
| Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park | 201 mi (323 km) | 5 hr 12 min |
| Channel Islands National Park | 202 mi (326 km) | 5 hr 14 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Coachella | 17.5 mi (28.1 km) | 42 min |
| Indio | 18.8 mi (30.3 km) | 44 min |
| La Quinta | 25.1 mi (40.4 km) | 55 min |
| Twentynine Palms | 25.5 mi (41 km) | 56 min |
| Palm Desert | 27.8 mi (44.7 km) | 1 hr |
| Cathedral City | 32.5 mi (52.3 km) | 1 hr 8 min |
| Salton City | 34.1 mi (54.9 km) | 1 hr 11 min |
| Desert Hot Springs | 36.6 mi (58.9 km) | 1 hr 15 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Joshua Tree National Park?
Coachella, about 17.5 mi (28.1 km) away — roughly 42 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Joshua Tree National Park?
The practical bases are Coachella, Indio, and La Quinta — all within a reasonable drive of the park.