Joshua Tree, Proposed National Park Additions

© Mike Cipra

Size: Approximately 2,873 acres

Management Agency: Bureau of Land Management (current),
National Park Service (proposed)

Location: Parcels are located along the north boundary of Joshua Tree National Park, between Yucca Valley and 29 Palms.

Maps: Joshua Tree National Park

Landscape and History

These remnant parcels of land are contiguous or immediately adjacent to the boundary of Joshua Tree National Park, and the BLM agrees that their proximity to Joshua Tree makes park service management the common‐sense lands policy. The topography of these areas varies greatly, and includes rugged granite mountains with rare cactus gardens, flatlands that provide ideal habitat for the threatened desert tortoise, Joshua tree woodland habitat, and seasonal washes that produce prolific and diverse blooms of spring wildflowers.

Wildlife and Plants

These parcels include prime habitat for the threatened desert tortoise and the burrowing owl, wildlife connectivity corridors for bobcats and bighorn sheep, and excellent habitat for LeConte’s thrasher, which is designated as a species of special concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. South Coast Wildlands recently finished a multi‐species wildlife corridor study for the ecological connections between Joshua Tree National Park and the 29 Palms Marine Base, and several of the parcels recommended for transfer to the National Park Service are directly within these corridors. Permanently protecting these wildlife corridors is critical for the long‐term health and survival of Joshua Tree National Park’s wildlife.

Activity Highlight

Hiking, rock climbing, birdwatching, spring wildflower viewing, and wildlife photography are all highlights in these areas.

For More Information

Mike Cipra, CA Desert Program Manager, National Parks Conservation Association
mcipra@npca.org | (760) 366 7785