Joshua Tree with kids

Question

We are planning a trip to Joshua Tree at the end of March with 2 kids (age 8 & almost 6). We’re looking at flights that arrive at LAX on Saturday at 4:30, renting a car and driving to an Airbnb in Desert Hot Springs. Then spending 3 days exploring JT and a day hanging at the rental with a fabulous pool. Then driving back (and probably spending a couple days at Disney). Any advice for the time spent at JTNP and area is appreciated

Answer

Your plan for Joshua Tree National Park with kids sounds wonderful! Late March is a great time to visit as the weather is usually mild—warm days and cool nights—which is perfect for outdoor activities and hiking with children.

Here are some suggestions to make the most of your 3 days exploring JTNP and the surrounding area:

Day 1 (Arrival): Since you’ll arrive in the late afternoon at LAX, plan for a relaxed evening drive to Desert Hot Springs. Depending on traffic, it could take 2.5–3 hours. Check into your Airbnb, grab dinner locally, and settle in.
Day 2 (Joshua Tree Exploration):
- Morning: Start at the Visitor Center to pick up maps, check ranger recommendations, and get Junior Ranger booklets for the kids.
- Late morning: Explore Hidden Valley Nature Trail—a 1-mile loop with easy hiking and fun rock formations for kids to climb.
- Afternoon: Head to Barker Dam Trail, another short loop with opportunities to see small wildlife and the historic dam.
- Optional stop: Keys View for panoramic desert views. It’s accessible by car and great for family photos.
Day 3:
- Morning: Visit Cholla Cactus Garden—fascinating for kids to see and take photos.
- Midday: Stop at Skull Rock for an easy hike and fun photo ops with the rock formations.
- Afternoon: Consider Jumbo Rocks Campground area for short rock scrambling and climbing suitable for young kids.
- Evening: Return to Desert Hot Springs for a relaxed dinner and perhaps an early night after a full day of exploration.
Day 4: Pool day at your Airbnb. This is great for resting little legs, enjoying the sunshine, and letting the kids play.

Additional Tips:

Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen—desert sun can be intense, even in March.
Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are recommended, especially for the rock areas.
Consider packing hats and layers as mornings and evenings can be cool.
Allow extra time for kids to explore rocks and cacti safely; many trails offer climbing opportunities which kids love.
Check the National Park website for any temporary road closures or seasonal events.

If you plan to continue to Disney after Joshua Tree, Desert Hot Springs is well-positioned for an easy drive to Anaheim or Los Angeles for your next leg of the trip.

This plan balances exploration, easy hikes for kids, and relaxation, making your Joshua Tree visit both enjoyable and manageable for the family.