Best Time To Visit Joshua Tree National Park

If you’re thinking about visiting Joshua Tree National Park, then when to go is one of the first questions you’ll want to work out the answer to.  

When to visit Joshua Tree National Park will depend on when you can travel, what you want to see and do there, and the weather at Joshua Tree National Park.  

Let’s take a look at when is the best time to go to Joshua Tree so you can make the right decision.

While this is my choice for the best time to go to Joshua Tree National Park, the park is great throughout the year.  I have provided a detailed breakdown by season and every month so you can easily see what to expect and then make your own choice.

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The Best Time To Visit Joshua Tree National Park In a Nutshell

Joshua Tree National Park weather is at its best during spring and fall. In April, May, October and November in particular, you can expect mild temperatures and little to no rainfall. You should also see wildflowers or fall colors at these times.

Due to the hot weather at Joshua Tree in summer, this is not the best time to visit. Beating the heat can be a real problem in the California desert during June, July and August. September can also still be almost as hot as June. 

If you want to pay less and explore more, the park can be very peaceful in winter, especially in January, February and March. December is also good, but it can be busier during the festive season. The weather is mild by day during winter, though low overnight temperatures can be expected.

When is the best time of year to visit Joshua Tree National Park (for different interests?

The best temperatures

The mildest and most pleasant months in Joshua Tree National Park are April, May, September and October. Winter is cool, while summer sees searing heat that even seasoned travelers can struggle to beat. 

The best time to see wildlife

Spring is the best time to spot local wildlife, as the animals come out to play following the winter season. 

The best time for hiking in Joshua Tree National Park

Spring and fall are the best times to hike at Joshua Tree, but if you don’t mind colder conditions, the trails can be very peaceful in winter.

The best time to avoid the crowds

Head to Joshua Tree during fall to avoid the spring crowds while benefiting from equally pleasant weather. For solitude, though, winter cannot be beaten.

The best time to travel in summer

June is a little cooler than July and August, with temperatures that are slightly lower, especially earlier in the month. 

The best time to travel on a budget

Winter and in particular the post-Christmas and New Year period is the best time to head to Joshua Tree when you want to save money.

The best time to beat the heat in Joshua Tree National Park

Beat the heat at Joshua Tree by timing your visit for early spring, late fall or even winter.

The worst time to visit Joshua Tree National Park

Summer is the worst time to visit Joshua Tree, as the hot weather and resulting discomfort will seriously limit how long you can spend exploring each day.

Check my detailed breakdown of what to expect every month in the year for much more detailed information.

Travel Insurance for Joshua Tree National Park

No matter when you go to Joshua Tree National Park, you should definitely get travel insurance.  This can protect you not only against medical and emergency repatriation, but can also cover things like trip cancellation, loss and/ or theft of property, etc.

A great insurance option is Travelex.  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can compare Travel Insurance plans here or get a quote right now:

Enjoy Joshua Tree National Park!

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Joshua Tree National Park Guide
The 10 Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park
The Closest Airports To Joshua Tree National Park
The 20 Best Vacation Rentals near Joshua Tree
Fun Facts about Joshua Tree National Park
How to Get to Joshua Tree National Park

What do you think is the best time of day to visit Joshua Tree National Park?  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).

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About the Author

James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.

He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks. 

Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.

As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.

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