Visting Joshua Tree Nation Park with Pets

Most National Parks are not very pet friendly, and unfortunately Joshua Tree National Park is no exception. With the park spanning almost 800,000 acres, which is slightly larger than Rhode Island, there are surprisingly not too many options on where you can adventure with your pet. But don’t fret I’ve put together a small list of some of my favorite pet friendly activities at Joshua Tree National Park, so you don’t have to leave your best bud at home.

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Keys Ranch Dirt Road

Dogs are allowed on roads and not all roads in Joshua Tree National Park are paved. The key is finding those dirt roads to take a stroll with your pal. A lot of these dirt roads are less concentrated with cars and people which is an added bonus.

When we entered the park, I pointed Lemon out to the park ranger and asked if he had any suggestions on what I could explore with my pet. Keys Ranch Road was his suggestion, and he did not let us down.

To navigate to this dirt road just park in the Echo T lot. You’ll see a small dirt road by the parking lot. The dirt road is about a mile long before you reach a restricted area of the park. You can turn around there and head on back for a quiet and peaceful two mile walk with Fido!

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Geology Tour Road

Geology Tour Road is a favorite for adventurers and their pets. This road is known for its 18-mile “driving” tour. Four-wheel drive is recommended for part of the tour as well. Since this is a dirt road you are allowed to bring your pet. And it makes for a fun place to walk your dog.

The times I have explored I have only seen a couple cars and you can pick up a guide for the tour and walk through different geological sites. Also, since it is 18 miles you can walk as little or far as you want to.

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Other Options

So those are two of my favorite places to bring Lemon when I’m visiting JTNP. I have also read that Oasis of Mara is pet friendly. A 0.5 mile loop where you explore a desert oasis. It is located at the Oasis Visitor Center. However I have never been here so I can’t give my opinion on the walk.

And remember…anywhere your car can go, your dog can go.  There are tons of unpaved roads throughout the park, so if you find one feel free to take a stroll with your dog!

Tios for Bringing Your Pet

• Water! It’s hot out here, make sure you have extra water for your pet.
• Follow the rules, there are a lot of things that can harm your dog. Like cacti, rattle snakes, historical mines…just to name a few!
• You aren’t allowed to leave your pet unattended or tied up to anything.
• Dogs are not allowed on any trails!
• Pets must be leashed.
• Pets are also not allowed more than 100 feet from campgrounds, roads, or picnic areas.
  

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More Pet Friendly Resouces

• Go Pet Friendly is a great resource on where you can travel with your pet.
• Be very careful! Remember it’s hot, read this.
• Joshua Tree National Park Pet Rules and Where Fido can go!
• Visit another California National Park with you pet.

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Now grab Fido and head outside. Adventure awaits!