Camping at Indian Cove Campground
Location and Access
Indian Cove Campground is located in the Joshua Tree National Park, near the town of Twentynine Palms, California. It's off of Highway 62, about 13 miles east of Joshua Tree Village. To access the campground, one must take Indian Cove Road north from the highway. Notably, it is situated outside the main park boundaries, thus you don't have to pass through the main entrance gates to access it.
Campsite Details
This campground features 101 individual campsites which are available for tents and RVs, though there are no hookups for RVs. Sites can accommodate up to six people and three tents. Each campsite typically includes a picnic table, fire pit, and grill. The camp sites are nestled among towering boulders, making for fantastic views and offering a unique camping experience. The individual sites are available for reservation up to six months in advance during the reservation season, which is typically from October through May. The rest of the year, these sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Group Camping
Indian Cove also has 13 group campsites which can accommodate 10 to 60 people. These sites are perfect for organized groups like scouts or family reunions. Group campsites must be reserved in advance, and reservations can be made up to a year in advance.
Amenities
While Indian Cove offers stunning desert views and unique rock formations, it is a relatively primitive campground. You will not find any water sources at the campground, so you must bring all the water you will need. There are pit toilets available, but no showers. The campground does not offer an RV dump station.
Activities
Indian Cove is renowned for its rock climbing opportunities due to the surrounding monzogranite rock formations. There are numerous climbing routes that cater to a range of skill levels. A nature trail starts from the campground, and there are many additional hiking trails that can be accessed within a short drive.
Wildlife and Vegetation
The campground is located in the Mojave Desert, and the vegetation primarily consists of Joshua Trees, yucca plants, and various cacti. Wildlife in the area includes birds, lizards, and the occasional bighorn sheep. It is important to be mindful of the fragile desert ecosystem and to follow the Leave No Trace principles.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
The area experiences extreme temperatures, with very hot summers and cool winters. The best time to visit Indian Cove Campground is during the cooler months, from October to April. Nights can be cold, even in summer, so it’s important to pack appropriate clothing. Always check the weather forecast before your trip and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.
Reservations and Fees
Reservations for Indian Cove Campground can be made via the Recreation.gov website or by calling their toll-free number. Camping fees vary depending on the type of site and are subject to change, so visitors should check the latest rates when planning their camping trip.
Important Rules and Regulations
- Campfires are only allowed within the provided fire rings or grills.
- Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times.
- The collection of rocks, plants, or animals is not permitted.
- Quiet hours are typically from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Park entrance fees must be paid in addition to camping fees, even though the campground is outside the park boundaries.
It’s always recommended to visit the National Park Service website for Joshua Tree National Park to get the most current information before planning your trip to Indian Cove Campground.
