These are just a few tips for beginners that will help you get started. There are many different ways to photograph the stars and Milky Way. You can pay upon exiting if the fee stations are open. If entrance fee stations are closed when you arrive, proceed and enjoy your visit. Watch your step in the darkness (use a red light flashlight or headlamp wear closed-toed shoes). Pets must be leashed at all times and are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry. Overnight camping is not allowed along roadsides or in parking lots.ĭay Use Only areas are closed from dusk to dawn in order to protect wildlife. The Pinto Basin Road between Cholla Cactus Garden and Cottonwood has the least traffic and darkest skies. Stay awake and alert within 20 feet (6 meters) of your vehicle. Park at any of the roadside pullouts and set up chairs to watch the stars overhead. For more information, check out our backpacking webpage. Backpacking should only be done by those with the skills and knowledge for an overnight backcountry trip.

Get away from roads, cars, and people, and camp out under the stars in Joshua Tree's vast wilderness. Cottonwood Campground has the darkest skies. Pitch a tent, roast some marshmallows, and spend the night under the stars in one of Joshua Tree's nine campgrounds (additional camping fees apply). Stay awake and within 20 feet (6 meters) of your vehicle, and enjoy the show. They are the parking lots of Quail Springs, Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, and Ryan Mountain. There are four designated stargazing areas. However, light pollution from surrounding communities does impact Joshua Tree's night skies, so some areas of the park are darker than others. On a clear night and moonless, you should have no problem viewing the stars from anywhere in the park. Check the moon's phase and rise and set times to find the best time to stargaze. Avoid the Moonīright moonlight reduces the number of stars you'll see. Use a red light to check your viewing are for hazards. Watch Your StepĬacti, nocturnal animals, and uneven surfaces may be difficult to see at night.

Do no trample vegetation and be aware of cacti in your area. A lightweight folding chair will help keep each person in your group comfortable and reduce strain. You may be on your feet and looking up for long periods of time. Temperatures drop quickly in the evening. There is no running water in most areas of the park. You can turn a regular flashlight into a red light by covering it with red cellophane, tape, fabric, paper, or similar materials. It takes 20-30 minutes for the human eye to fully adjust to very low light conditions. Do not use bright white flashlights, headlamps, or cell phones.

November starfall calendar