If you’re looking for the most Instagrammable photo spots in Joshua Tree, you’ve come to the right place! This spot in California has beauty around every corner and is just begging to be photographed. In this blog, we’ll share all the best spots we found during our amazing day trip to Joshua Tree National Park so that you can get the best Insta shots when you visit.
1. With a Joshua Tree
Of course, the most iconic Joshua Tree photo spot is by the famous Joshua Tree. There are tons and tons of these trees lining the main road of the park (I mean, let’s be real – it wasn’t named after this tree for nothing!). However, we found our favorite trees along the main road between the West Entrance Station and Jumbo Rocks. No two Joshua Trees are the same, though, so as you drive along, just look for one you think looks photogenic.
2. Along the main road in the park
There’s no denying that Joshua Tree is the perfect place to grab that perfect road Instagram shot. Almost anywhere along the main road in the park is a great place to try this shot, but we took ours around here.
Do note, though, to be extremely cautious while attempting this shot. We went on a weekday and shot this late in the day, so there were very few cars. Even then, we had two other people helping us look both ways while we were shooting.
3. Along the Hidden Valley trail
The Hidden Valley loop trail is not only one of the best hikes in the park, but it’s also one of the best photo spots in Joshua Tree. Along the hike, there are plenty of Joshua Trees to take photos by, as well as insane rock formations that serve as the perfect backdrop!
Even the entrance of the hike is a perfect place to snap a picture because of the dramatic golden rocks surrounding it! This hike is all-around super photogenic and doesn’t require much effort. It is a 1-mile loop, and including all of our photo stops, it took less than 1 hour.
4. Keys View
At an elevation of 5,185 feet, Keys View is an amazing Joshua Tree photo spot. From this point, you can see the San Andreas Fault, the Salton Sea, and even as far as the US-Mexico border!
You can drive to this viewpoint, and it’s the perfect place for both portrait and landscape photography.
5. Joshua Tree welcome sign
Did you even go if you didn’t get a picture by the welcome sign? While we didn’t see a “Welcome to Joshua Tree National Park”, the “Welcome to Joshua Tree” sign is certainly worth a stop. The sign is right along Highway 62 after going through Yucca Valley. The GPS coordinates for the sign are 34.134750, -116.366589.
6. Cholla Cactus Garden
Before this trip, I’m not sure I would’ve put cacti on a “most Instagrammable” list, but boy did this place change my mind! The Cholla Cactus Garden has more cacti than I’ve ever seen in my life and is certainly one of the best Joshua Tree photo spots. While it’s probably beautiful at all times of day, at sunset, this place is breathtaking!
7. Skull Rock
There are hundreds (maybe thousands!) of impressive rock formations through the park, and we loved playing the game where you come up with what you think the rock looks like. However, Skull Rock leaves very little to the imagination! This rock that resembles a human skull is definitely a park favorite and one of the most Instagrammable spots in Joshua Tree!
Also read: Death Valley’s Most Instagrammable Places!
8. Arch Rock
While we didn’t have time to photograph #8-10 during our day trip to the park, they are still some of the best photo spots in Joshua Tree! Arch Rock is such an iconic photo spot in the park, and we were so bummed to miss it. This place looks stunning to photograph at any time of day and is definitely worth prioritizing during your trip.
9. Barker Dam
Barker Dam is a 1-mile loop trail in the park that is similar to the Hidden Valley loop trail. The reflections here look insane, and it’s definitely one of the most picturesque places in Joshua Tree. According to the park rangers, this is also one of the best spots in the park to spot wildlife, which would be super neat to catch on camera.
Tip: Before you enter the park, check with a park ranger at the visitor center to see if there is still water in the dam. Apparently, at certain times of year, it is dried up, and that could be a bummer.
10. Under the stars
Joshua Tree is the perfect place for nighttime photography. On a clear night, you can capture the most beautiful silhouettes and stars from the park. Plus, good news, even if you aren’t camping, you can still photograph the stars since the park gates are open 24/7!
Where to stay in Joshua Tree
If you want to stay the night in the area, here are a few places to stay that caught our eye!
- Affordable modern hotel: Field Station Joshua Tree
- Unique mid-range vacation home: Starfire Relaxation Retreat
- Fun glamping under the stars: 28 Palms Ranch
- Luxury getaway: Sacred Sands
- Or check out all the hotels in Joshua Tree!
If you want to stay in Palm Springs after your day trip, here are some hotels we recommend!
- Quirky mid-range: Ace Hotel and Swim Club, Palm Springs
- Luxury with perfect location: Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel
- Or check out all the hotels in Palm Springs!
Make sure to read our Joshua Tree Day Trip blog before you go! It’s jam-packed with everything you need to know before visiting and the best 1-day park itinerary.
