Joshua Tree National Park on Points: Our Family Long Weekend
My boys Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree National Park has been on our list for years — those Dr. Seuss‑looking trees, the giant boulders, the desert sunsets. And the best part? You can do this entire trip using points and miles without blowing your budget. Here’s exactly how we did Joshua Tree on points, from Nashville to LAX to Palm Springs and back. My family enjoyed this trip so much, and I love that I was able to do it so affordably.
This blog contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thanks for supporting NO POINT LEFT BEHIND — it helps me keep sharing savvy travel hacks and family adventures.
Flying to California Using Southwest Points + Companion Passes
We started the trip the way we start most of our national park adventures: Southwest Rapid Rewards. From Nashville, Southwest has tons of nonstop and one‑stop options into LAX, and with two Companion Passes, our flights were basically unbeatable. We only paid the small taxes and fees — the rest was covered with points.
If you’re a family or traveling with kids, the Companion Pass is one of the easiest ways to cut flight costs in half. This trip was a perfect example of why we love it.
Night 1: Hyatt Regency LAX (Booked on Points)
We arrived late, so instead of driving two hours to Palm Springs in the dark, we kept it simple and stayed at the Hyatt Regency LAX. It’s clean, convenient, and bookable with Hyatt points — exactly what you want after a long travel day.
We grabbed a quick bite, crashed, and woke up ready for sunshine and palm trees.
Palm Springs: Our Home Base at La Quinta Resort & Club (Hilton Points)
The next morning, we picked up our rental car and headed to Palm Springs — one of the easiest and most relaxing bases for a Joshua Tree trip.
We stayed at the La Quinta Resort & Club, Curio Collection by Hilton, and let me tell you… this place is a dream. So. Many. Pools. It’s the kind of resort where you can wander for hours, find a quiet corner, and feel like you’re on a completely different vacation.
Because it’s part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, you can book it with Hilton Honors points, which makes the stay even sweeter. It’s a fantastic redemption for families, couples, or anyone who wants a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Our family loved our stay here. A fabulous resort!
What to Pack for Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree is stunning, but the desert is dry, hot, and unforgiving if you’re not prepared. Here are the essentials you actually need for a smooth, safe trip.
Sun + Heat Protection
Wide‑brim hat
Mineral sunscreen
SPF lip balm
Lightweight long‑sleeve sun shirt
Polarized sunglasses
Find these essentials on my Joshua Tree Essentials list on Amazon
A Day Trip to Joshua Tree National Park
Tanner at Joshus Tree National Park
Joshua Tree is an easy drive from Palm Springs — about 45 minutes to an hour depending on where you enter. We packed snacks, water, and sunscreen and headed out for a full day in the park.
Some highlights:
Hidden Valley — short, fun, and perfect for all ages
Skull Rock — a quick stop and a great photo spot
Keys View — sweeping desert views that feel unreal
Barker Dam — another easy, family‑friendly loop
Joshua Tree is one of those parks where you can do a lot without complicated planning. Drive, stop, explore, repeat. It’s simple, beautiful, and incredibly beginner‑friendly. There are lots of rocks to climb on at Joshua Tree. We have always said my son Tanner is powered by rocks, and he absolutely loved this National Park.
Exploring Palm Springs
After our day in the park, we spent the rest of the trip enjoying Palm Springs — pools, sunshine, great food, and that classic desert vibe. It’s the perfect pairing with Joshua Tree because you get adventure and relaxation in one trip.
Some of our favorites:
Pool‑hopping at La Quinta
Dinner in downtown Palm Springs
Wandering the resort grounds at sunset
Coffee runs and mountain views
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back every year. Our visit was in January and it was fun to pretend it was summer with the beautiful weather.
Best Things to Do in Palm Springs
1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Ticket
Ride the world’s largest rotating tramcar up to 8,500 feet for incredible views and cooler temps.
2. San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour
A guided off‑road adventure through one of California’s most fascinating geological zones.
3. Joshua Tree National Park Half‑Day Guided Tour
If your readers want a guided experience, this is the easiest, most popular option.
4. Palm Springs Celebrity Homes Tour
A fun, easy sightseeing tour through iconic mid‑century neighborhoods.
5. Indian Canyons Hiking Tour
A guided hike through palm oases, waterfalls, and canyon trails — great for families.
Why Joshua Tree Is Perfect for a Points Trip
This trip checked all the boxes:
Southwest points + Companion Pass made flights incredibly affordable
Hyatt points covered our airport hotel
Hilton points gave us a luxury stay at La Quinta Resort
Rental car was easy to book with points or travel credits
Joshua Tree is a low‑stress, high‑reward national park
If you’re looking for a national park trip that’s easy to plan, beginner‑friendly, and perfect for families, Joshua Tree is a fantastic choice.
Ready to Plan Your Own Trip?
Check out my guides for:
Travel doesn’t have to be expensive — and Joshua Tree is proof.
