Camp at Joshua Tree's White Tank Campground

Riverside County, California

5.0/5
based on 3 reviews

Description

Added by Tiffany Nguyen

This is an amazing place to use as a basecamp to explore and find really cool angles to shoot. Group camping sites are great for larger groups. Added bonus: the trailhead for Arch Rock is located at the campsite. 

White Tank Campground is in the perfect spot to get a taste of all that Joshua Tree has to offer. As a central location to nearby hiking and climbing, it is easy to access the various parts of the park. Removed from the border of the park, White Tank doesn't attract as many visitors as the more popular campsites, so it never gets too crowded. Since one site can accommodate up to 6 people, 3 tents, and 2 cars, White Tank is great for group camping trips.

It's important to note that there is no running water or showers, so be sure to be prepared and bring plenty of water as it can get very hot and dry out there during the summertime. Each campsite has a fire pit with a grate and a separate stand-up grill, so also be sure to bring your own firewood and charcoal.

The highlight of camping at White Tank is that it’s right next to Arch Rock—a unique geological formation stretching 30 feet across. The trail over is a 0.3 mile loop located just minutes away from the campsite, which makes for a nice stroll during sunrise and sunset. Since Arch Rock is a premier Joshua Tree location, you’ll come across many photographers there during all hours of the day. Bring your camera and snap some shots yourself!

Don't hesitate to explore the area further—you'll find other cool rock formations and many an iconic Joshua Tree peppered across the landscape surrounding the campground.

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Features

Photography
Camping
Chillin
Hiking
Bathrooms
Family Friendly
Groups
Picnic Area

Camp at Joshua Tree's White Tank Campground Reviews

I love this spot to campout! It seems to be a lot less crowded than all of the other campsites. Photo ops here are amazing. The night sky at Joshua Tree is always an amazing view to see!

Great, small camp ground. Supposed to be tents only. Awesome for kids, like a huge playground! We actually ended up sharing site 9 with another family and it was plenty big. Room for two cars, grill & fire pit with grill. Very central to all the attractions at 29 palms (northish). We did the Arch hike (took about 25 mins with our 8 year old), Barker Dam (1 mile loop, took us 45 mins) and Hidden Valley (1 mile loop, 45 mins). Even if the signs say "full" always check around to see if you can share a site!

I love this spot because it is so much less crowded then all of others. The way the rocks are arranged adds to a sense of seclusion, it really felt like we were the only humans for miles and it was wonderful. Add that it is within walking distance of the arch rock and an extremely short drive to the Cholla Garden- which is my favorite sunrise spot. Aim to camp here next time you visit!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Arch Rock

Arch Rock Nature Trail

Backcountry Camp in Joshua Tree

Skull Rock Trail at Joshua Tree National Park

Camp at Joshua Tree's Jumbo Rocks

Split Rock Loop