Desert Dwelling in Joshua Tree

Camping is no longer limited to tents and RV’s. The desire to be connected with nature is as prevalent as ever, and now there are ways to satisfy this craving for those to whom the idea of pitching a tent is less than ideal. Want to get the best of both worlds by combining the comfort of a home with the scenery and experience of camping? Meet “glamping”: camping for those travelers who wish to be grounded with Mother Earth but don’t want to sacrifice their favorite amenities.

It’s no surprise Joshua Tree National Park, with far-reaching views and photo ops galore, is a hub for glamping. According to National Geographic, the national park receives 2.8 million visitors annually. The park straddles the Mojave and Colorado deserts with views of Coachella Valley in the distance. Joshua Tree allows visitors to truly soak up the night sky, glittering with stars, because of the lack of light pollution, being that the park is far removed from any large metropolises. On the Eastern side, the closest major city is Phoenix, which is about 300 miles away. If you plan a summer trip under the stars, you’ll be able to see the Milky Way!

Now that we’ve enticed you with the scenery of vast deserts overlooking beautiful valleys, it’s time to look into accommodations… glamping style, of course.

28 Palms Ranch Stargazing Yurt

There are five authentic Mongolian yurts on this property, each of which houses four travelers. Situated about 20 minutes from the northern entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, Palms Ranch Yurts are the perfect place to unplug. In terms of “glam,” this option falls somewhere in the middle of primitive camping and renting an Airbnb. While the yurts are all on the same property, each one encompasses its own private area to sleep, camp, cook, clean, and enjoy. The yurts are also supplied with electricity and A/C, but lanterns are placed throughout to maintain that traditional camping feel. 

Yurts just became our new favorite mode of accommodation. Photo found on Airbnb listing here.

Geodesic Dome House

Perfectly suited for intimate group vacations, Dome House sleeps eight guests and has four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. It’s uniquely elevated and situated on two and a half acres, all of which is available for guests to frolic around on. Like many homes in a national park, the main focus is always on what the earth has to offer, which is why this abode’s architect included 360-degree views from every window of this spectacular space. The jacuzzi and porch make for perfect places to relax with a glass of wine after a long day of hiking among the cacti!

Domes in the desert? Major yes. Photo found on Airbnb listing here.

Stylish Vintage Airstream

While this Airstream may qualify as vintage, in terms of appliances and finishes, it’s anything but vintage. It’s surprisingly larger than you might think, with one double bed accompanied by two twin beds. It’s appropriately equipped for colder nights in the desert, having electricity, hot water, and heat. The host provides linens and towels because it also has a private bathroom with a toilet and shower. Outside, you can find a wooden deck, which makes the whole experience! Right outside the Airstream, you are also provided with private, endless views of the arid desert in the daytime and uninterrupted views of the Milky Way at night. 

Photos found on GlampingHub listing here.

Earth House

This serene oasis was renovated using natural materials such as clay and sand from the surrounding areas. Sustainability was a must for this organic retreat huddled within boulders. Because it is near the junction of traditional Serrano, Vanyume, and Cahuilla territory, the Airbnb host will respectfully donate a portion of the revenue to indigenous groups nearby. Earth House is centrally located 10 minutes from downtown Joshua Tree and 20 minutes from the park’s nearest entrance. Palm Springs and Coachella Valley are a quick half-hour drive down the hill. 

Photos found on Airbnb listing here.

There are so many more creative spaces in Joshua Tree National Park ranging from yurts to luxury tents to full-on abodes. Architects have chosen to express their individuality in the architectural and interior designs of all these spaces, and we are blown away. Pick whichever degree of “camping” works for you and, remember, pack layers to keep you warm while stargazing.

Featured image found on Airbnb listing here.

We do not own any of the images in this article.