Special Events

Examples of special event activities include (but aren't limited to) ceremonies, celebrations, public spectator attractions, sporting events, entertainment, historical reenactments, festivals, and large group activities or meet-ups. Depending on the size and complexity of the planned event, the park may require you obtain a special park use permit. If issued, the permit will include terms and conditions that protect park resources while allowing you to enjoy the park without interfering with other park visitors.

Special use permits may be issued to an individual or group of people including meet-ups, clubs, non-profits organizations, friends & family, and more.

 

Event Information

Site use is on a first-requested, first-served basis. If the location requested has already been booked or is unavailable, permittee will be contacted to discuss an alternative location or preferred date.

The special event permit does not allow your event to prohibit other park visitors from using your chosen location nor does it guarantee you a specific site.

The special event permit does not override current closures. If there are closures due to wildlife, weather, or other causes, please contact our office immediately to revise the permitted special event location. If we know about the closure in advance, we will contact the permit holder.

Visitor use may impact your special event; we recommend morning or evening event times in areas with high visitation and will advise you on this throughout the permitting process.

Entrance fees into the park are not waived for special event participants or guests.

Car-pooling is recommended as parking may be limited.

Please respect park resources and tread lightly.

 

Locations

Joshua Tree National Park does not permit exclusive use of any area and there will be normal visitor activity during your special event. Joshua Tree National Park will only permit one activity at a time per location. Group size, season, and time of day will determine the approval of your requested location. There are designated locations to avoid congestion in these busy locations. A map will be provided by the park with the approved locations.

Indian Cove Amphitheater No more than 100 people total and only 1 vehicle. You must hire a shuttle for your guest to this location. The park does not provide transportation. (Location not available June 1-August 31)
Hidden Valley Picnic Area No more than 35 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
Turkey Flats No more than 35 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
Cap Rock No more than 25 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
Rattlesnake Picnic Area No more than 20 people and 8 vehicles.
Quail Springs Picnic Area No more than 15 people and 8 vehicles.
Split Rock No more than 15 people and 5 vehicles.
Porcupine Wash No more than 12 people and 4 vehicles.
Queen Valley Mine Intersection No more than 10 people and 5 vehicles.
Lost Horse Parking Lot No more than 10 people and 5 vehicles.
Live Oak Picnic Area No more than 5 people and 3 vehicles.

Prohibited Items/Activities

Please review our park regulations. In addition, the following items/activities often associated with weddings are prohibited:

• The use of amplified music, microphones, or speakers.
• The release/dispersal of living or inanimate objects (e.g. butterflies, bird seed, rice, or flower petals).
• Unattended food items.
• Decorations (e.g. balloons, directional signage).
• The use of furniture at the ceremony site (consideration is given to those with special needs). Use existing picnic tables and benches where available.
• Restricting visitor use or blocking the flow of traffic.
• Pets are not allowed on trails, or paths. If you plan on having a pet at the ceremony this will need to be approved by the Special Park Uses Office.
• Drones
• All dried flowers (e.g. Pampas Grass and other dried florals)
• Non-battery powered candles
• Bubbles
• Smoke Bombs
• Sparklers and Fireworks

 

How to Apply

To apply for a permit, please complete this Special Use Permit Application and email it to [e-mail].

Permit Office

The permit office is open Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm (PST). We are closed on federal holidays. Permits may still be granted in advance for a Saturday or Sunday. Permits are not issued on federal holidays and NPS free entrance days.

Contact us

Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Address:
74485 National Park Drive
Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
*We are located in office building 100 near the flag pole.