April in Joshua Tree - Joshua Tree National Park

Sunset, April, 2000 by Michael Tennesen

FEES: $10 per car for seven days.

Camping

At most park campgrounds, camping is free and available first-come, first-served. Ryan and Hidden Valley campgrounds fill up quickly, but Jumbo Rocks, Belle, and White Tank are less pressured. Cottonwood is a fee site, as are Indian Cove and Black Rock Canyon. You can make reservations at the latter two ($10 to camp; 800/365-2267). Bring your own water, firewood, and food.

Lodging

Hotels and motels are available in the nearby cities of Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms. The Roughly Manor Bed & Breakfast (from $75; 74744 Joe Davis Dr., Twentynine Palms; 367-3238) is a three-story 1920's home on 25 acres. The 29 Palms Inn (from $80; 73950 Inn Ave., Twentynine Palms; 367-3505) is a rustic bungalow surrounded by wood-framed cabins.

Hiking

Boy Scout Trail begins at Park Blvd. and runs downhill to Indian Cove.

DISTANCE: 8 miles one-way.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate one-way difficult round trip.

Ryan Mountain Trail starts off Park Blvd.

DISTANCE: 3 miles round trip.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate.

Cholla Cactus Garden begins at Pinto Basin Rd.

DISTANCE: 1/4 mile.

DIFFICULTY: Easy.

Lost Palms Oasis Trail starts off Pinto Basin Rd. at Cottonwood Spring.

DISTANCE: 8 miles round trip.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate to difficult.

Be sure to bring plenty of water and be cautious of cactus spines, particularly chollas. Pets are allowed-but protect them from coyotes by keeping them on the trail.