Joshua Tree Corporate Retreats

What do you think of when you hear the word “desert”? A dry, barren waste (without the taste of water)? If you’ve ever read many of Louis L’Amour’s popular Western books, you know he had a love affair with the desert. “Desert Death Song,” “Law of the Desert Born” and Mojave Crossing” all pay homage to the wonders and challenges of the American desert.

In that vein, Joshua Tree National Park doesn’t disappoint. Located east of L.A. and San Bernadino in Southern California, the park is larger than Rhode Island—more than 1,242 square miles, comprised of the Colorado and Mojave Desert ecosystems. About half of that area is designated wilderness.

Joshua Tree earned national monument status in 1936 and became a national park in 1994 with the passage of the California Desert Protection Act. More than 2 million people visit the park annually to gaze at the unique rock formations sculpted over centuries by the desert winds and the austere Joshua trees. Other attractions include Berdoo Canyon, Cottonwood Spring, Cap Rock Nature Trail, Cholla Cactus Garden and Ryan Mountain. Think hiking, rock climbing and birdwatching. Even amateur astronomers flock to Joshua Tree.

Two of the nine campgrounds in the park have flush toilets and provide water. Several of the campgrounds, including Cottonwood Campground and Black Rock Campground, take reservations October through May and others operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. With a few stipulations, backpackers are permitted to camp in the backcountry.

Ready for a hike like no other you’ve taken? Just one mile through Hidden Valley showcases the beauty of Joshua Tree. A portion of the California Riding and Hiking Trail, on the western side of the popular national park offers even more magnificent views. Stop at the Visitor Center in the town of Joshua Tree for more information on sights to see.

After your visit to Joshua Tree National Park on a corporate retreat, we guarantee you’ll have a different vision when you hear the word “desert.”