The park and the city of Joshua Tree are named for the unique trees that grow in the area. Also called Yucca brevifolia, the Joshua tree is native to the southwestern arid parts of the country. It has a bare trunk with tufty growths that come out of the tops of multiple branches. The name of the Joshua tree is believed to have come from a group of religious settlers who crossed the Mojave Desert and likened the tree to a biblical story of Joshua. The national park is one of the most popular among visitors to the state of California, thanks to the unique natural formations and trees that are prevalent across the land.
When should I visit Joshua Tree, CA?
Due to its location in the desert, the climate in Joshua Tree is hot throughout much of the year. Visitors often flock to the park when the weather is a bit cooler, which is generally between October and March. Average high temperatures during this time of the year are between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. In the summer months, the highs are often in the 90-degree range. It rarely dips below freezing in the area, with average low temperatures in the mid-30s and high 40s between October and April. To score the best hotel rates, it's recommended that you plan your visit during the middle of the week.
The national park doesn't host any major events, although it does host some smaller events that can draw more visitors. These include special tours, entertainment programs, and chats hosted by park rangers. Some of these events can impact hotel rates in the area. Major events in the neighboring cities, including San Bernardino and Palm Springs, may also cause hotel rates to increase near the park.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Joshua Tree, CA:
Joshua Tree by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean rate trends by star rating class in Joshua Tree, CA. You can use these line graphs to evaluate the cheapest seasons to stay in Joshua Tree for upcoming travels.
Where can I enjoy a luxurious stay in Joshua Tree, CA?
4 Star Average Prices: $209.56
For a truly luxurious experience, book a room at L'Horizon Resort & Spa, a five-star option located about 27 miles from Joshua Tree in Palm Springs. Each of the 25 guest rooms is individually decorated and features a bed with Frette Italian sheets and a down comforter, a private furnished balcony, an iPod docking station, a minibar, an LED TV with premium digital programming, designer toiletries, and rainfall showerheads. Enjoy a pampering treatment at the hotel spa or take advantage of the outdoor pool, spa tub, concierge services, and gift shop. The hotel restaurant serves American cuisine and cocktails, while room service is available during select hours.
Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage also provides upscale amenities for guests. This hotel is in nearby Rancho Mirage and has a casino, a full-service spa offering body treatments, facials and massages, concierge services, free Wi-Fi, and a gift shop. You can dine at any of the nine restaurants, order room service, grab a drink at one of the six bars, or enjoy a snack at one of the two coffee shops. Within the rooms, you'll find 42-inch flat-screen TVs, pillowtop beds with premium bedding, private bathrooms with separate showers and soaking tubs, refrigerators, and minibars.
Enjoy a relaxing stay at Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel. This four-star hotel is close to the Palm Springs Art Museum and several other local attractions. During your stay, you'll have access to the outdoor pool, concierge services, 24-hour fitness center, business center, and dry cleaning and laundry services. The property has three restaurants and two lounges for all your food and beverage needs. In your room, you'll find a minibar, a laptop-compatible safe, designer toiletries, free wireless internet access, and a separate workspace.
What are some budget hotels in Joshua Tree, CA?
3 Star Average Prices: $122.36
High Desert Motel Joshua Tree National Park is a budget-friendly place to stay near the Hi-Desert Cultural Center. This cozy property has 21 rooms, each of which comes equipped with a microwave, a refrigerator, free wired and wireless internet access, a TV with cable programming, complimentary toiletries, a tea and coffee maker, and a phone with free local calls. Amenities for guests include a picnic area, a private garden, a seasonal outdoor pool, free parking, and a TV in the lobby. The front desk staff members speak multiple languages to accommodate guests and are available 24 hours a day to provide assistance.
Enjoy a cost-effective stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Yucca Val/Joshua Tree Nat Pk Area. This property boasts an outdoor swimming pool, fresh tea and coffee in the lobby, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can also enjoy the free continental breakfast each morning before heading out sightseeing or exploring. The rooms come equipped with desks, free wireless internet access, TVs with cable programming, and irons.