Hike to Cottonwood Spring Oasis, Joshua Tree National Park, California

Add to My List Check Off

Cottonwood Spring Oasis is one of the best kept secrets in Joshua Tree National Park. It's located 7 miles from the southern entrance to the park. The spring, the result of earthquake activity, was used for centuries by the Cahuilla Indians, who left bedrock mortars and clay pots, or ollas, in the area. A short, easy walk down Cottonwood Wash leads past a second oasis to a dry falls. In wet years, the falls can become a scene of rushing water and red-spotted toads Cottonwood Spring is one of five native fan palm oases in Joshua Tree National Park. Washingtonia filifera, with the common names, Desert Fan Palm, Cotton palm, Arizona Fan Palm and California Fan Palm. It is a palm native to southwestern North America between an elevation range of 100–1,200 metres (330–3,900 ft), at seeps, desert bajadas, and springs where underground water is continuously available. Backcountry camping is permitted in areas that are: 1 mile (1.6 km) from roads, 500 feet from trails and water sources, not day-use only areas. Before setting out into the backcountry, you must first register at one of the backcountry boards.

Write a Review

No Ratings Yet

Flag as inappropriate ›