Sheep Pass is a small group campground centrally located along Park Boulevard. There are only 6 site available, all of which can be reserved 12 month ahead of time. Sites #1 and #2 hold up to 50 people, while sites #3 - #6 only hold 30. Pit toilets, garbage, and recycling bins are located throughout the campground. This is a popular spot to stay during peak months (fall and spring), so make sure to get your site reserved as soon as you can, especially for weekend dates.
I love Sheep Pass. It sits at the base of Ryan Mountain, which you can hike up via the Sheep Pass Connector Trail. The campground is sheltered by the eastern aspect of the mountain, which means it gets dark and cold here about an hour earlier than sundown. However, in the mornings you get the first sunlight that hits the desert. Each campsite is nicely nestled into its own private rock canyon, which helps it feel private and secluded.
For $25 - $40 per night depending on the site. This can be an economical way to get a bunch of friends together for a weekend out at Joshua Tree.
