Our Favorite Activities To Do While Stargazing At Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is most known for its beautiful abstract rock formations, striking views and of course its infamous Joshua Trees. What many visitors may not realize is its nighttime sky is not to be missed. The darkness found in the desert offers visitors the opportunity to view shooting stars, constellations and even the Milky Way and gives a whole new appreciation for the world that exists beyond this one. For those who are interested in stargazing while visiting Joshua Tree National Park here are three ways to further elevate your experience to truly make it feel out of this world.

1. Stargazing From The Hot Tub

For us, there is no better way to take in the stars that fill the sky above Joshua Tree National Park than while soaking in a hot tub or swinging in hammocks. Both of these options are available for visitors who stay at the WKNDR at Joshua Tree National Park. At the getaway guests will find a cedar firewood hot tub which is the perfect place for two to take in the night sky. If soaking and stargazing are not your thing, at the property there are also hammocks that offer views of both the night sky but also the 29 Palms city skyline. The getaway is also less than one mile from the Sky’s The Limit Observatory and Nature Center (which is practically in the WKNDR Starside’s backyard) so guests always have the option of effortlessly traveling there for a guided stargazing experience.

2. Making S’Mores Around A Campfire

Who doesn’t love a good s’more with a great view? That’s why this is another way we love elevating our Joshua Tree National Park stargazing experience. Gather up some blankets, binoculars and s’mores supplies and head out to the fire pit at sunset. At the WKNDR Starside at Joshua Tree National Park guests can find a fire pit, one bundle of complimentary wood as well as a complete dining space with unparalleled views to create an entire magical evening dining experience with desert being s’mores and stars.

3. Experience Sky’s The Limit Observatory and Nature Center

For those who are looking for a more guided stargazing experience we highly recommend visiting Sky’s The Limit Observatory and Nature Center. There you will find a tremendous amount of information, education, and tools, like solar telescopes, that will help further illuminate your stargazing experience. At the Observatory, which is just beyond the North entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, you will also be able to benefit from the knowledge of their onsite docents. The center also holds unpromoted monthly events that you have to be an insider to know about. If you’re interested in attending one of these events reach out to us and we’ll provide the next date.

Check It Out: @stl29palms

Hours of Operation: Monday - Sunday: Open 24 Hours (with limited services and no overnight stays are permitted on the property)

Address: 9697 Utah Trail, Twentynine Palms. CA 92277

Let us know in the comments of any other ways to elevate the Joshua Tree National Park stargazing experience.

Click Here To Discover The Best Airbnb For Joshua Tree Stargazing (And A Map Of Where & Where Not To Stay To See Stars).

Hilary Victoria

Hilary is co-founder of WKNDR. She’s hiked every official (and many unofficial) trails in Joshua Tree National Park, including the entire California Riding and Hiking Trail. She’s our resident expert on all things outdoors, things to do, and places to see in the high desert.

Previous
Previous

3 Must Haves For Your Joshua Tree Stargazing Adventure

Next
Next

Hungry For Lunch? Check Out These 3 Delicious Spots Around Joshua Tree National Park