Directions & Transportation Joshua Tree National Park lies within a few hours' drive of several major metropolitan areas. The park is located about 140 miles east of Los Angeles. Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together inJoshua Tree National Park. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land sculpted by strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California. Come explore for yourself.