Barker Dam: A Scenic Oasis in Joshua Tree National Park
Discover the beauty and history of Barker Dam, a stunning oasis in Joshua Tree National Park, perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and relaxation.
Barker Dam is a stunning and historic site nestled within Joshua Tree National Park, offering breathtaking views, captivating wildlife, and unique hiking opportunities that attract tourists from around the globe. Explore the rich history, diverse ecosystems, and picturesque landscapes that make this destination unforgettable.
A brief summary to Barker Dam
- Joshua Tree Parkway, Twentynine Palms, California, 92277, US
- +1760-367-5500
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning light for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby.
- Look for the petroglyphs along the trail, which offer insight into the area's Native American history.
- Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
- Consider visiting during the winter months for milder weather and fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Walking
Start at the Joshua Tree Visitor Center located at 6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252. From the Visitor Center, head north on Park Blvd for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Highway 62. Cross Highway 62 safely at the crosswalk. Continue walking north on Park Blvd for another 0.2 miles until you reach the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. Once inside the park, follow the signs to Barker Dam, which is approximately 1.5 miles from the entrance. The trailhead is located near the Barker Dam parking area, where you will find a well-marked trail leading to the dam itself.
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Public Transport (Bus)
Take the SunLine Bus Route 1 from downtown Joshua Tree. The nearest bus stop is located at the corner of Park Blvd and Highway 62. Board the bus heading towards Twentynine Palms. Get off at the Twentynine Palms Post Office stop. From there, you will need to walk approximately 1.5 miles to the Barker Dam trailhead. Head northwest on Adobe Road until you reach the intersection with Joshua Tree Parkway. Turn left onto Joshua Tree Parkway and continue for about 0.5 miles until you see signs for the Barker Dam trailhead. The trailhead is well-marked, and you can follow the signs to the dam.
Discover more about Barker Dam
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ryan Ranch
5.2 km
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Sacred Sands
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Key's Ranch
14.8 km
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The Invisible House
15.2 km
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The Desert Lily Vacation Home
16.8 km
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A-Z West House
17.1 km
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Planar Pavillions at A-Z West
17.4 km
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North Joshua Tree BLM
17.4 km
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The Castle House - Estate
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Mojave Sands
18.8 km
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AutoCamp Joshua Tree
19.0 km
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Casa Luisa Joshua Tree
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Joshua Tree Park & Recreation District
19.1 km
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SAFARI MOTOR INN - JOSHUA TREE
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The Station Joshua Tree
19.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wonderland Ranch Ruins
0.7 km
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Wall Street Mill
1.3 km
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Hidden Valley Campground
2.1 km
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Intersection Rock
2.3 km
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Keys Ranch
2.7 km
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Hidden Valley Nature Trail Trailhead
2.9 km
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Hall of Horrors Area
3.4 km
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Boy Scout Trail
3.8 km
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Quail Springs Picnic Area
4.8 km
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Cap Rock
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Quail Springs Trail
4.9 km
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Cap Rock Nature Trail
5.0 km
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Ryan Mountain
5.1 km
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Desert Queen Mine
6.9 km
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Maze Loop Trail
8.6 km
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Essential places to dine
The Rib Co
12.8 km
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John's Place
12.8 km
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Más o Menos
13.5 km
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29 Palms Inn
14.2 km
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Kitchen in the Desert
14.7 km
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Desert Hideaway Food, Snack, and Drink Bar
15.3 km
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Swordfish Pub
19.2 km
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Roadrunner Grab+Go
19.4 km
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JT Country Kitchen
19.5 km
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Crossroads Cafe
19.5 km
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Joshua Tree Coffee Company
19.5 km
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The DEZ fine food - takeaway - espresso
19.5 km
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Royal Siam Cuisine Thai Restaurant
19.7 km
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Elive Food - Vegan Food Delivery
20.0 km
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Food for Thought Café
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tribal traditions
15.0 km
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el duende
19.0 km
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Soul Connection
19.2 km
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The Shops at Zanny's
19.2 km
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SharkBite Desert Emporium
19.2 km
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Lost Horse Goods
19.2 km
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Joshua Tree Street Market
19.3 km
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Realm of Crystal
19.3 km
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Promised Land
19.3 km
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Joshua Tree Shop n' Craft
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.
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Sun Alley Shops
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Joshua Tree Blanket Co.
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Shop
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Totally Blown
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Virginian Cocktails
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Out There Bar
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Spin and Margies Desert Hideaway
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The Cactus bar
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Z Club
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Joshua Tree Bottle Shop
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Brewja Elixir
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Nick's Bar and Billiards
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Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails
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The 19th Hole
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La Quinta Cliffhouse
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Paul Bar/Food
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Sand To Snow Monument Bar
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Yard House
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BaBaLoo Lounge
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