Joshua Tree National Park closed all roads and campgrounds in the park as of noon Saturday, March 21. Park Superintendent David Smith said visitors can still hike or bicycle in and use the park’s trails, but the gates into the park are closed. Wilderness access using the Covington Flats Road as well as the entrances to Berdoo Canyon, Pinkham Canyon, Thermal Canyon, and Long Canyon remain open. Backcountry permits will not be required for the use of these areas and overnight backcountry camping is permitted.
Additionally, urban trail access at the Oasis of Mara, the California Riding and Hiking Trail, Rattlesnake Canyon, Eureka Peak and the High View Nature Trail as accessed via Black Rock campground will remain open.
Displaced car campers can take advantage of open camping areas on public lands adjacent to the park and managed by the Bureau of Land Management as well as local private RV parks.
It’s not known how long the park closure will last.
