Stop here at the Cottonwood Visitor Center to start your adventure into Joshua Tree National Park. The staff here is very knowledgeable about the entire park and can recommend hiking trails based on the dynamics of your party. Get a free map here and check out the small store of souvenirs.
Down the road from this visitor center is the Cottonwood Springs campground and a few additional hiking trails. Older kids should have no problem hiking the Mastodon Peak Loop Trail. At 2.6 miles, it is not too long and has some fun geology. There is even a small gold mine, the Mastodon Mine.
Very helpful rangers at Cottonwood Visitor Center off Interstate 10. The Cottonwood Visitor Center is located 9 miles inside the South Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park which is just north of Interstate 10 and about 25 miles east of Indio. This visitor center is actually located 32 miles south of the North Entrance near Twentynine Palms.
If looking for a perfect stay while visiting this place check out our Twentynine Palms Hotel – Harmony Motel and book your stay on the Hotel’s Website for the lowest possible rates.