A dog-friendly Joshua Tree stay: Desert Ace welcomes up to two pets

Desert Ace, a five-bedroom Joshua Tree vacation rental with a heated pool and spa, welcomes up to two pets for a fee. Here is what to know about the park rules and where dogs are welcome nearby.

Gas fire pit lounge at Desert Ace at dusk

Pet policy

Desert Ace welcomes up to two pets. A pet fee applies, so confirm the details with AvantStay when you book.

Joshua Tree National Park rules for dogs

Per the National Park Service, pets are not allowed on hiking trails or in the backcountry, so Hidden Valley and Barker Dam are off limits to dogs. Pets are allowed within 100 feet of roads, parking areas, picnic areas and campgrounds on a leash of 6 feet or less, and on the paved Oasis of Mara and Keys View trails. Never leave a pet in a vehicle, and watch hot pavement. Rules can change; check NPS pet rules before you go.

Where dogs are welcome nearby

Mojave Desert Land Trust trails: public trails about 1.4 miles (4 minutes) away; dogs welcome on leash. There is no street address, so use a map pin (the Guest Guide has one).
Keys View: leashed pets are permitted on the short paved trail; about 41 minutes away.
Oasis of Mara, Twentynine Palms: a short paved trail where leashed pets are permitted.
Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum: free and self-guided; leashed dogs are welcome.
Joshua Tree Coffee: dogs are welcome on the patio.
Joshua Tree Saloon: pets are allowed inside and out, with a shaded patio.
ZZIEE Ceramics: a small pottery studio and shop; dogs are welcome.

Policies at businesses change, so call ahead if it matters.

Keeping dogs comfortable in the desert

Summer highs run about 95 to 104°F, and the National Park Service advises never leaving pets in cars. Pavement and rock can burn paws, so walk early or after sundown, and carry water. Rattlesnakes become more active as it warms in spring.

At the house

Wood-burning fires are not allowed, but the gas fire pit is fine to use. The pool, spa and covered cabanas are in the backyard; confirm with AvantStay any rules about pets and the pool area.