Joshua Tree National Park is moving forward with a significant infrastructure upgrade: the construction of a brand-new entrance station at the park’s western boundary in the community of Joshua Tree. This modern facility will replace the current west entrance station. It will improve traffic flow, enhance the visitor experience, and support park operations well into the future.
What’s Coming
Located just under half a mile south of the existing entrance and positioned further inside the park, the new station will feature:
- Two inbound lanes
- One outbound lane
- A bypass lane in each direction
This new configuration aims to reduce congestion, streamline entry and exit, and better accommodate the millions of visitors the park welcomes annually. The construction team expects to complete the project by early 2026.
Funding and Project Team
This $5 million capital improvement project is funded entirely by entrance fee dollars—money collected directly from visitors at the park’s entrance stations. These funds are reinvested into the park to maintain and improve facilities and services.
The construction contract was awarded to L&J Building Co. LLC, a Missouri-based company selected to bring the project to life.
What to Expect During Construction
While the new entrance is under construction, vehicles will continue to use the current west entrance station. Visitors may experience minor traffic delays, but park staff are working to minimize disruption as much as possible. Once the new station becomes operational, crews will demolish the old entrance and rehabilitate the surrounding area.
Important Construction Notice: Temporary West Entrance Closure
As part of ongoing construction, a temporary full closure of the west entrance station is scheduled for:
6 a.m. Monday, April 7 through 6 p.m. Thursday, April 10
No inbound or outbound traffic will be allowed during this closure through the west entrance. Visitors must instead access the park through either:
- The North Entrance Station in Twentynine Palms (25 miles east of the west entrance)
- The Cottonwood Entrance at the park’s southern boundary
Travelers using Highway 62 should plan for approximately 17 additional minutes of driving time when using the north entrance.
Note: No entry will be permitted via Park Boulevard through the town of Joshua Tree during this closure.
To assist visitors, park staff will install signage along Highway 62, Park Boulevard, and throughout the park to direct traffic and alert drivers to this temporary change. Though turnaround points will be available at Quail Springs Picnic Area (for outbound traffic) and the current west entrance (for inbound traffic), these points are discouraged due to expected traffic congestion.
This closure is necessary for crews to perform essential work, including utility trenching and road grading, to prepare the site for paving and infrastructure connections to the new entrance station.
Plan for a Smooth Visit
Joshua Tree National Park rangers encourage all visitors to recreate responsibly by following posted speed limits, driving only on designated roads, and being prepared for changes in traffic patterns during construction.
To make your visit easier:
- Buy your entrance pass in advance at Recreation.gov.
- Download the official NPS App for trip planning tools, alerts, and up-to-date park information at NPS.gov.
Check out the park’s official news release and follow Joshua Tree National Park on social media for the most current updates.