California

We crossed the California border at 9:15 this morning.  All vehicles had to stop at the inspection station, but most of the cars and RVs were waved right through.  The speed limit on I-10 for all RVs and trucks is 55mph while cars can still drive 75mph. This is an absolute desolate stretch of highway reminiscent of west Texas.BMT CA

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We drove into Joshua Tree National Park from the south entrance of the park near the Cottonwood Visitor Center on the Pinto Basin Road.  We were  driving the motorhome and towing the car through the park to get to the north end near our campground at Twentynine Palms.  We weren’t able to stop at too many places because there was no where to park.

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We are wearing our matching National Parks shirts that have box beside each park to mark off after we visit.

 One quick stop was Cholla Cactus Garden.  There was a warning to take care around theses cacti.  They are commonly referred to as “jumping” cholla as segments can beak off and attach to people and animals as a way to reproduce.

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We drove to Twentynine Palms and parked the motorhome at the 29 Palms RV Campground.  Ben unhitched the car and after we ate lunch, we headed back into the park with our car.

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Joshua Tree

Keys View

Our first stop was at Keys View where we saw a panoramic view of the southern side of the park. On a clear day, it is possible to see Signal Mountain in Mexico 90 miles to the south.  We were also able to see the Andreas Fault which runs roughly 800 miles through California where the Pacific Plate and North American Plate meet.

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I can’t believe I am now the short one at 5’7”

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We walked the 1.7 mile trail to see Skull Rock

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We drove back into the park in the evening and hiked to Arch Rock and then stayed there for sunset.

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Sunset in the park with a Joshua tree in the foreground

Twentynine Palms

The City of Twentynine Palms is where the US Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center is located.  It’s the world’s largest Marine Corps training base.  According to the city’s website, “The city is known for its world class murals and artists, supportive business climate, pristine air, beautiful natural surroundings, desert and mountain vistas, and friendly family lifestyle.”

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When we walked up to this mural, we thought the guy was actually asleep on the scaffolding, but it’s just part of the painting.

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The roadsigns are hot pink

Trip Statistics 

  • Miles driven in motorhome today 146; Total on trip: 1583
  • Gasoline Cost: $2.729 per gallon or $121.38 ; Total on trip:  $651
  • 29 Palms RV - 39.75; Total for campgrounds $173.18