Serrano and Cahuilla Nations The land that is now Joshua Tree National Park has been home to the Serrano and Cahuilla peoples for thousands of years. Petroglyphs, bedrock mortars, and plant use sites throughout the park attest to sustained presence. The Oasis of Mara (at the Twentynine Palms Visitor Center) was a Serrano gathering place — the name Twentynine Palms refers to the 29 native palms that marked this oasis.
Twentynine Palms Band of Mission Indians The native Serrano community with federally recognized status, based in Twentynine Palms. Their website and cultural programs offer context.
Desert Institute at Joshua Tree Field institute offering educational programs, natural history classes, night sky programs, and guided experiences inside the park. Proceeds support the park.
Joshua Tree National Park Association The park's official nonprofit partner. Supports conservation, education, and volunteer programs. Volunteer opportunities available for trail maintenance and restoration.
Friends of Joshua Tree Habitat restoration, native plant propagation, trail maintenance, and campground rehabilitation inside the park. Drop-in volunteer days and scheduled group projects throughout the season. The reciprocal version of visiting — instead of taking from the desert, you leave it better than you found it.
Volunteers for Outdoor California Organizes trail restoration and invasive species removal days in and around the park.
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