This Bureau of Land Management dispersed camping area provides free overnight stays just off Interstate 10, accessible by front-wheel drive vehicles on established dirt roads. Campers can drive directly to individual sites scattered across the desert landscape, with rock fire rings marking established spots throughout the area.
Sites spread far enough apart to offer privacy even when the area draws multiple visitors. "Easy to find a spot on a Saturday late December," reports Scott S., noting good distance between neighbors. The open terrain allows campers to position their rigs with views across the desert toward distant mountain ranges, though wind exposure can be significant with gusts exceeding 20 mph during certain weather patterns.
Road noise from Interstate 10 carries across the area, though experiences vary by campsite location and individual tolerance. Some campers report minimal highway sound, while others note the constant hum of traffic. Cell service reaches most sites reliably, allowing remote work and communication. Established fire rings support campfires, and the area accommodates large RVs alongside smaller camping setups.
Access requires attention to soft sand areas that can catch unprepared vehicles. Trash accumulation along access roads and at some sites presents an ongoing challenge, with campers frequently noting cleanup efforts during their stays. Jeffery K. describes "easy access to the park and some nice views" from the sites overlooking the interstate corridor.
For a different desert camping experience, Joshua Tree South Entrance sits less than half a mile west with a more sheltered setting.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingJoshua tree BLM by entrance is located in California
Coordinates
33.67176476143621 N
115.79506550008068 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 63 usersLast on 4/3/26
VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 103 usersLast on 4/3/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 63 usersLast on 4/3/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 103 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Phone Service
- Electric Hookups
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Joshua tree BLM by entrance needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 32 min from El Centro, CA
- 2 hrs 23 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ
- 2 hrs 27 min from Yuma, AZ
- 2 hrs 36 min from San Diego, CA
