About SHEEP PASS GROUP
Overview Download the NPS app prior to visiting the park – trail maps and more! Sheep Pass Group Campground is centrally located within Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California and is easily accessible to hiking trails and rock climbing routes. It is one of three group campgrounds in the park. Towering rock formations and uniquely-shaped Joshua trees surround the facility. To get the most out of your visit Plan Like a Park Ranger Travelers who enjoy warm, dry winters flock to Joshua Tree from October through May, when temperatures hover in the 70 to 90-degree range during the day and drop to a 40 to 60-degree range at night. Summer is the park's off-season due to the uncomfortably-high desert heat. Sheep Pass is at an elevation of 4,500 feet and has a mix of both sun and shade. Recreation Sheep Pass is very close to many hiking trails, popular rock climbing routes and a central location for sightseeing within the park.Facilities There are six group sites within the campground. Electrical hookups and drinking water are not provided.Natural Features The distinctive shape of Joshua trees and the huge rocks that surround them draw tourists and scientists alike to the national park. Joshua trees are a member of the yucca family that have long evergreen leaves, shaggy bark and bunches of white flowers that bloom in spring. The rocks were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and have been exposed and shaped by wind and water over time. They brighten with soft pastel hues in the morning and evening sunlight and glow with campfire light at night. Visitors may want to keep their eyes out for typical desert inhabitants such as lizards, rattlesnakes, scorpions, ravens, squirrels, coyotes and desert tarantulas during the cooler months of the year. Bobcats and mountain lions do live in the park, however they are rarely seen near humans.Charges & Cancellations Reservation Cancellations & Changes Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation
How to Get There
Take Interstate 10 to Route 62. From the town of Joshua Tree turn south on Park Blvd. and continue through the West Entrance. The campground is 13 miles from the entrance station and the city of Twentynine Palms.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SHEEP PASS GROUP
Heading to SHEEP PASS GROUP? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SHEEP PASS GROUP?
No central reservation system listed for SHEEP PASS GROUP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232470) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SHEEP PASS GROUP?
Take Interstate 10 to Route 62. From the town of Joshua Tree turn south on Park Blvd. and continue through the West Entrance. The campground is 13 miles from the entrance station and the city of Twentynine Palms.
How do I contact SHEEP PASS GROUP?
You can reach the park at phone: 760-367-5554 or email: cynthia_lasala@nps.gov.
References & Official Resources
