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Cottonwood Visitor Center

Mecca, California · Riverside County · Facility

Located on Pinto Basin Road, approximately 7 miles north of Interstate 10 (exit 168), the Cottonwood Visitor Center is a convenient stop for those entering and exiting the park from the south. It has educational exhibits, a bookstore, visitor resources, and restroom facilities. You can grab a park map, buy an entrance …

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33.74851, -115.82408
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Cottonwood Visitor Center

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High89°F
Avg Low67°F
Peak Rain Chance0%
Humidity29%
UV (avg)7
Air Quality57 · Moderate
Today
☀️
Clear
85°/61°
🌬 12mph
↑ 6:37 AM ↓ 6:28 PM
Thu
☀️
Clear
90°/66°
🌬 9mph
↑ 6:37 AM ↓ 6:27 PM
Fri
☀️
Clear
91°/68°
🌬 9mph
↑ 6:38 AM ↓ 6:25 PM
Sat
☀️
Clear
89°/70°
🌬 10mph
↑ 6:39 AM ↓ 6:24 PM
Sun
☀️
Clear
89°/71°
🌬 11mph
↑ 6:40 AM ↓ 6:23 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Cottonwood Visitor Center

Located on Pinto Basin Road, approximately 7 miles north of Interstate 10 (exit 168), the Cottonwood Visitor Center is a convenient stop for those entering and exiting the park from the south. It has educational exhibits, a bookstore, visitor resources, and restroom facilities. You can grab a park map, buy an entrance pass, fill up your water bottle, and chat with a park ranger to get all your questions answered.

Photos

How to Get There

From I-10, take exit 168 for the Cottonwood Springs Rd. Enter Joshua Tree National Park at the South Entrance. Continue Cottonwood Springs Rd. for about 6 miles. Cottonwood Visitor Center will be on your right.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Cottonwood Visitor Center

Heading to Cottonwood Visitor Center? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Cottonwood Visitor Center?

No central reservation system listed for Cottonwood Visitor Center. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/258945) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Cottonwood Visitor Center?

From I-10, take exit 168 for the Cottonwood Springs Rd. Enter Joshua Tree National Park at the South Entrance. Continue Cottonwood Springs Rd. for about 6 miles. Cottonwood Visitor Center will be on your right.

How do I contact Cottonwood Visitor Center?

You can reach the park at phone: (760) 367-5500 or email: [email protected].