Ryan Campground
Inside the park · central, near Ryan Mountain
31 sites in the middle of the park, walking distance to Ryan Mountain and the Cap Rock formation. Reservable in cool months, first-come in summer.
Price
$20
per night
Booking
Seasonal
Type
Campground
You'll book on Recreation.gov. We don't handle reservations.
Score breakdown
Weighted from seven categories.
Why it scores this way
Ryan is Jumbo Rocks' quieter cousin — smaller, less iconic, but walking distance to one of the park's best summit trails.
See methodology →Best for
- Ryan Mountain day hikers
- Small groups
- Photographers
- Dark sky viewing
Good to know before booking
- Ryan Mountain trailhead is a short walk
- No water
- Sites are exposed — bring shade if you can
- Reservations only Sep–May; first-come in summer
Best time to camp here
- Best months
- October – April
- Higher demand
- March – April weekends
- Weather note
- Wind can pick up strongly in spring.
Amenities
Essentials
- Toilets
Site features
- Firepits
- Picnic tables
Access & activities
- Trailhead access
Rules & extras
- Dark sky area
Tags
Location
Joshua Tree NP, CA
Inside the park · central, near Ryan Mountain
33.983° N, 116.137° W
Open in Google MapsNearby alternatives
Three campgrounds close by, each with a different trade-off.
Data note. Scores are editorial estimates from published park data, amenity lists and seasonal booking patterns — not live availability. Booking availability shown on partner sites is authoritative.
Disclosure. CampingPoints may earn a commission when you book through some partner links. This never affects a campground's score or ranking.
Last reviewed: January 2026
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