Joshua Tree National Park Feb 13-15, 2009

First trip to Joshua Tree National Park. Place that looks like it's not of this earth. Lots to see and do from hiking, rock climbing, camping, wandering the desert, 4x4 roads and just soaking in the unusual scenery. We entered through what the map I'm looking at is calling the West Entrance right out of the town of Joshua Tree. Joshua trees of every shape and size as far as the eye could see along with huge rock formations. Plenty of places to pull over and park, get out and go for a walk or take off on an overnight hike. I was still recovering from being sick so we really didn't get to hike too far but still saw a great deal of the park.
Skull rock was cool to climb around, cholla cacti garden. We drove through two of the campgrounds. Not really the type of place I'd like to camp but if you're going to be rock climbing all day I'm sure it's cool. Saw quail and a coyote and a couple rabbits which was cool. On the second day we entered through a different area, The Black Rock Nature center. I kind of liked this area more, nice campground for family style camping, closer to hills with snow on them. There's also a big ranger station/interpretive center. A colder day by far and I started feeling pretty sick again so we didn't get very far on our hike. Interesting area though.
I'd say the park is a must see at least once. Wouldn't mind going back to see the wild flowers but other than that I think I've had my Joshua tree fill for awhile.
Joshua Tree National Park http://www.nps.gov/jotr/