Ryan Campground
4.45443 reviewsRyan Campground, Park Boulevard, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
Ryan Campground
$5.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$5.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual campsites are $30 per night, horse sites are $30, bicycle sites are $5. Discounts available for Senior/Access Pass holders: $15 for individual and horse sites, $2.50 for bicycle sites.
About this campground
Tucked into the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, Ryan Campground serves as your gateway to an authentic desert adventure. This intimate campground places you within touching distance of the park's legendary rock formations, where generations of climbers have tested their skills and hikers have discovered hidden vistas. While you'll need to bring your own water and won't find hookups here, the trade-off is an unspoiled camping experience that connects you directly with the raw beauty of the Mojave. Families particularly love the accessible trails and the chance to explore massive boulder gardens right from their campsite.
Ryan Campground caters to tent camping, small RVs, and primitive camping. It is one of the smaller campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park, offering a quieter and more intimate experience.
Historical SignificanceYour campsite sits in the shadow of history, with Ryan Mountain and the remnants of Ryan Ranch telling tales of the desert's past just a short distance away. These landmarks stand as monuments to the early settlers who carved out lives in this unforgiving landscape, their stories etched into the very rocks that surround your tent.
Weather and SeasonsThe desert reveals its gentler side from October through May, when daytime temperatures hover between a perfect 70-90°F and nights cool down to a crisp 40-60°F – ideal for campfire conversations under star-filled skies. Summer transforms the landscape into a fierce furnace, making camping a challenge for all but the most heat-tolerant adventurers. Winter occasionally dusts the higher elevations with snow, creating a surreal contrast against the desert's golden palette.
ElevationPerched at 4,400 feet above sea level, Ryan Campground offers a welcome reprieve from the scorching temperatures of the lower desert basins. This elevation creates a microclimate where desert nights bring refreshing coolness and morning air carries a crispness that energizes your day's adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up in a natural sculpture garden where massive boulders create private alcoves and sandy corridors wind between ancient rock formations. The campground's setting showcases nature's artistry – volcanic rocks weathered into fantastical shapes, painted in desert hues that shift from amber to rose with the changing light. Keep your eyes peeled for the desert's secretive residents: sunbathing lizards, elusive bobcats padding through the shadows, coyotes calling at dusk, and yes, the occasional rattlesnake reminding you that this is still wild country.
Geological RegionRyan Campground rests in the dramatic embrace of the Mojave Desert, where millions of years of volcanic activity, wind, and water have sculpted a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. The flat, sandy expanses punctuated by towering rock formations create a natural playground, while the iconic Joshua Trees – those twisted sentinels of the desert – stand guard over this remarkable geological wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityRyan Campground has unpaved roads and no ADA-specific campsites.
Sites SizeThe sites vary in size and can accommodate up to six people and two vehicles, though some sites may be smaller and only fit fewer cars or tents.
Sites PrivacySites are relatively close together with limited natural barriers for privacy. Several user reviews noted that 'some campsites are a little too intimate and close together.'
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose inner-loop sites for wind protection. Sites near vault toilets may have odors during wind shifts.
Best CampsitesSites backing up to large rocks (e.g., Site 9) are considered most private and scenic. Sites 17 and 30 offer flat spaces and proximity to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per visit during October-May. 30-night annual camping limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to six people, three tents, and two vehicles per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout with campsites grouped around rock formations. Parking areas may require shared access between sites.
Open and Closed SeasonRyan Campground operates year-round but is closed during summer (June 1 to September 1).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on www.recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are reservation-only year-round, though bicycle sites are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and may forfeit the first night's use fee. No-shows are charged a $20 fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ryan Campground offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and star-gazing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding rock formations provide opportunities for climbing and exploration.
Hiking
Several trails, including the Ryan Ranch and Ryan Mountain trails, are accessible directly from the campground. "We hiked to the top of Ryan Mountain before sunrise!" exclaimed one user.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
The campground has biking access to the California Riding and Hiking Trail. Electric bikes may navigate the terrain, though it may be challenging in places.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently encounter wildlife such as lizards, squirrels, and sometimes coyotes. 'Coyotes howling at night is amazing,' noted one visitor.Winter Activities
Winter activities are less common due to the campground's closure from June to September and high summer temperatures.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not supported.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Charcoal and wood fires prohibited from June 15 to October 1. Gas or propane stoves allowed.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of bees during warmer months, rattlesnakes, and scorpions. Windy conditions and unshaded campsites may also pose challenges.
Active alertsFire bans for wood and charcoal fires from June 15 to October 1.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate rain showers
Precipitation: 12.6%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 20 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (12.60% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate rain showers
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Hospital: Hi-Desert Medical Center in Joshua Tree (approximately 17 miles); Police station: Twentynine Palms Police Department; Ranger station: Joshua Tree National Park headquarters in Twentynine Palms.
Good to know
Peak season datesOctober through May.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins, including propane recycling, are placed throughout the campground.
Proximity to water featuresNo natural water features nearby.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include squatters occupying reserved sites, overcrowding, and proximity of campsites affecting privacy.
HostCamp hosts are mentioned in some reviews as friendly and helpful, though their presence seems inconsistent.
Campground Map
Ryan Campground, Park Boulevard, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
Driving directionsTake Interstate 10 to State Highway 62. Turn south on Park Blvd. Continue 5 miles to the West Entrance; Ryan is approximately 11 miles from the entrance. If coming from the east, taking Interstate10, take the Desert Center exit north onto State Highway 177. Continue on State Highway 177 turning west onto State Highway 62 to Twentynine Palms. Turn south on Utah Trail. Continue 3.5 miles to the North Entrance. Ryan is approximately 13 miles from the entrance.
Road access is paved and easily manageable year-round. No seasonal closures are mentioned. Accessibility conditions for large RVs or trailers might be challenging due to limited space at some campsites.Nearby places
Joshua Tree (17 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Twentynine Palms (18 miles, approximately 25 minutes), and Palm Springs (50 miles, approximately 60 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Twentynine Palms, which is 18 miles away. There is no camp store on-site.
Camper Reviews
4.5
443 reviews
Ryan Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Ryan Campground is well-regarded for its scenic location, clean facilities, and proximity to popular trails. However, some users expressed concerns about privacy, campsite management, and noise levels during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 443 reviews
What Campers Love
Users often praise the beautiful rock formations, clean vault toilets, and central location in Joshua Tree National Park. Many appreciate the smaller size of the campground, which offers a quieter...
Based on 443 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include lack of camp hosts, occasional overcrowding, noise from neighboring campsites, and ongoing challenges with bees. Some users noted that campers sometimes occupied reserved sites,...
Based on 443 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water as the campground lacks potable water. Reserve well ahead of time to secure a spot, especially in peak months. Arrive early to avoid potential site mix-ups.
Based on 443 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter and spring are the most popular times due to mild temperatures and clear skies for stargazing. Summer is less crowded but extremely hot, and the campground is closed from June to September.
Based on 443 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Ryan Campground is perfect! It is one of the smaller campgrounds, no crowds!!!' 2. 'The vault toilets were clean and lots of trash and recycling facilities.' 3. 'Coyotes howling at night is...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 9 is noted for its privacy and shade. Site 4 is described as 'lucky,' while Site 17 is appreciated for its central location and proximity to trails.
Based on 443 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground lacks ADA-specific sites, but vault toilets are available. Some users found the unpaved roads challenging for mobility.
Based on 443 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted but must remain on a leash. They are not allowed on trails but can be within 100 feet of roads.
Based on 443 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025