Skull Rock — Attraction in Twentynine Palms

A great location in Joshua Tree National Park to Scramble around and climb the interesting rocks. There is one rock that is named Skull Rock, however, I personally feel there are several rocks at this location that look “skullish.” Some people complain about crowds, but we didn’t have a problem finding a parking spot nearby for our large truck and we only ran into 6 people the entire time we were there.

A great stop for families and with things to do for all ages. Joshua Trees, Cactus, flowering cactus, lizards. Lots of slots, holes, and caves to find hidden in the rocks. Be very careful because the rock may look like sandstone from afar, but this isn’t Zion National Park, this rock is weathered granite. If you fall or slide these rocks are like a human cheese grader. My 13-year-old fell and slid off a rock and had serious abrasions/cuts to his leg, knee, elbow, wrist, and ankle. But don’t let that scare you - just be careful.

As a precaution, I would research the Mojave Rattlesnake. This is an excerpt from Wikipedia about it. Crotalus scutulatus (common names: Mojave rattlesnake, Mojave green), is a highly venomous pit viper species found in the deserts of the southwestern United States and central Mexico. It is perhaps best known for its potent neurotoxic-hemotoxic venom, which is considered the world's most potent rattlesnake venom. Also, many people think that when a rattlesnake starts “rattling” that it will sound like a rattle. This isn’t always true: A small sized rattle snake will sound more like a buzz. I’ve never encountered a Mojave Rattlesnake, but I ya e encountered several Diamondback Rattlesnakes of various sizes.

Our family loves areas like this where you can scramble around and explore. It reminds me of the feeling I got exploring in Goblin Valley, Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park, and many areas in the San Rafael Swell, Utah. If you haven’t experienced these locations you’re missing out; I highly recommend Zion National Park, Bruce Canyon, and Goblin Valley, which is close to Capital Reef National Park. These are some of my favorite places in the Western...

Skull Rock is one of the better-known landmarks within Joshua Tree National Park. It's very easy to visit and is just off the road as you drive through the park. There are some places to park along the side of the road, but that's about it. There are also no facilities present, but you probably won't be spending a lot of time here. It's a neat-looking rock formed from the weathering of the granite -- and people seem to love things that resemble faces. Either way, check it out and...

Nice rock formations at this place. Good place for kids and families to climb some easy rocks. Plenty of parking on the road. Don’t forget to take a walk behind the rock formation. There is a small trail opposite to this rock on the other side of the road. About 0.7 miles not visible on the map. Built by kids in partnership with the park. Not crowded as most don’t...