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Joshua Tree · April

Joshua Tree in April

April is the busiest time to visit Joshua Tree — quieter than March, busier than May.

Crowd score

How busy it gets

9/10
Peak

The park's busiest time. Reservations, early starts, and patience recommended.

About 86% of this park's busiest month.

Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025

Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Jul 2026 · alerts checked Jul 10, 2026. How this is calculated →

Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe

Visitation

Typical April visits vs. the year

April (typical)358,626
Peak — March415,876
Quietest — July135,957

Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.

Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025

Weather

April weather

Avg high
81°F
Avg low
55°F
Precipitation
0.1"
Sunrise
5:12 AM
Sunset
6:15 PM
Daylight
13h

Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, TWENTYNINE PALMS, CA US

What's open

Joshua Tree in April: access

Joshua Tree National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Visitation increases as temperatures moderate in the fall, peaks during the spring wildflower season, and diminishes during the heat of summer. Some areas of the park are designated for day use only. Visitor centers keep separate hours; please see descriptions.

Seasonal closures may apply:

  • Caution

    Oasis of Mara Trail Partial Closure

    Due to a heavy flooding event, the Oasis of Mara Trail is closed past the Oasis.

  • Information

    Annual Summer Closures and Restrictions in Effect

    The 49 Palms trail along with some campgrounds, facilities, and areas have adjusted availability during the summer. For the full list of changes, please visit our Summer Closures page.

    Details on nps.gov →

Source: NPS Data API

Conditions

Current alerts

  • Caution

    Inaccurate Third-Party Apps

    Some third-party hiking apps are providing inaccurate trail and safety information to users. Please use the official NPS app for accurate information.

    Details on nps.gov →
  • Caution

    Oasis of Mara Trail Partial Closure

    Due to a heavy flooding event, the Oasis of Mara Trail is closed past the Oasis.

  • Information

    Annual Summer Closures and Restrictions in Effect

    The 49 Palms trail along with some campgrounds, facilities, and areas have adjusted availability during the summer. For the full list of changes, please visit our Summer Closures page.

    Details on nps.gov →

Source: NPS Data API

Context

Joshua Tree crowds across the year

JanFebMar9AprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Alternatives

Quieter nearby in April

FAQ

Joshua Tree in April

How busy is Joshua Tree in April?

April rates 9/10 for crowds (Peak) at Joshua Tree National Park — about 86% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 358,626.

What is the weather like at Joshua Tree in April?

In April, Joshua Tree averages a high of 81°F and a low of 55°F, with about 0.1 inches of precipitation.