Joshua Tree National Park seeks public comment on fee increases
Joshua Tree National Park strives to make overnight camping and interpretive tours memorable and enjoyable experiences. The Federal Lands and Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA) authorizes the NPS to collect and retain revenue, in the form of entrance and amenity fees, and requires these funds to be used to enhance visitor experiences like camping and interpretive programs. This act also dictates that amenity fees at National Park Service (NPS) units must be comparable to fees charged by other nearby service providers.
Joshua Tree National Park proposes to increase camping and Key’s Ranch Tour fees. These proposed updates are based on the prices of comparable public and private service providers within the vicinity of the park.
| Camping Fees | Current | Proposed |
| Belle Campground | $15 | $25 |
| White Tank Campground | $15 | $25 |
| Jumbo Rocks Campground | $20 | $30 |
| Ryan Campground | $20 | $30 |
| Hidden Valley Campground | $15 | $25 |
| Black Rock Campground | $25 | $35 |
| Black Rock Equestrian Campground | $20 | $35 |
| Indian Cove Campground | $25 | $35 |
| Indian Cove Group Campground | $35-$55 | $55 |
| Cottonwood Campground | $25 | $35 |
| Cottonwood Group Campground | $35-$45 | $55 |
| Sheep Pass Group Camp | $40-$50 | $55 |
| Wilderness Backpacking Permit | $6 Rec.gov fee (no NPS fee) | $6 Rec.gov fee (no NPS fee) |
*Camping fees reflect the availability of amenities at specific campgrounds.
| Current Key’s Ranch Tour Fees | Proposed Key’s Ranch Tour Fees | ||
| 6 years and younger | Free | “Child” 3 years and younger | $1 |
| 6 – 11 years | $5 | “Youth” 4 – 11 years | $10 |
| 12 years and above | $10 | “General Admission” 12 years and above | $20 |
| Senior & Access Pass Holders | $5 | Senior and Access Pass Holders | $10 |
The 30-day public comment period will be until June 30. Public comments can be made online through the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website or written submission through the mail to:
Attn: Nathan Rhyne
Revenue and Fee Manager
Joshua Tree National Park
74485 National Park Drive
Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
The proposed fee increases are expected to take effect in January 2025.
Photo by Thomas Melville
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