Rancho Rockotillo - Breakfast in the Boulders next-door to National Park !

Joshua Tree, California
$278 avg/night
Minimum Stay 2 Nights
Bed 1

Bed

Bath 1

Bath

Home Cabin

Property Type

Sleep 3

Max Sleeps

Night 2 nights

Min Stay

Whether you’re a rock scrambler, a trail rambler, or just want to soak up the vibes of our peaceful desert paradise, Rancho Rockotillo will soothe your soul. Original Joshua Tree homesteaders believed that the more giant rocks and boulders, the greater the desireability of their property – and our newly restored 1950’s homestead cabin sits steps away from some of the most towering, beautiful boulders bordering the park.
Perfect for writer/musician/artist retreat, or romantic getaway - sleeps 1 - 3 in clean, light-filled, airy space with full view windows and doors. Newly refreshed comfortable cabin with open bedroom/common area includes all of which can be seen from the comfort of our latest, brand new, super comfortable Nectar premium memory foam mattress/queen-sized bed, perfect for guests of all sizes and sleeping positions. There's also a cozy full-size convertible sofa in the same common cabin area right next to this platform bed, so please note that these are not in private bedrooms. Fully-equipped open kitchen features breakfast bar seating and all new appliances, along with all the cookware, spices and tools needed to whip up a meal, separate dining area/work station, wi-fi and both French press and pour over coffee makers. We provide the coffee and tea, you bring the food! Soak, chill and stargaze in the large, well-maintained Jacuzzi hot tub with powerful jets and amazing view, enjoy the rainfall showerhead and boulder seating in the cabin's cool open shower bathroom, and play your favorite music from your smartphone or CDs on the in-house Bluetooth stereo.
Rancho Rockotillo offers acres to roam, private hiking trails, and of course stunning visuals including ocotillo, pine, eucalyptus, juniper, fruit and Joshua Trees as well as jackrabbits, tortoises, chuckwallas, coyotes, bobcats, bighorn sheep and yes, even the occasional glimpse of a mountain lion. The Rancho sits less than 3/4 mile from the national park's west entrance, and 7 minutes from the vibrant Joshua Tree Village cafe, art gallery, farmers market and nightlife scene. The music of the wind playing through the canyons, along with our living soundtrack provided by doves, quail, owls, ravens, hawks, hummingbirds and singing coyotes, will relax and inspire, making Rancho Rockotillo the perfect short or long term artist, musician or writer's retreat, as well as a couple's oasis. And the starry night sky must be seen to be believed – the Milky Way in all its majesty, and if you time it right, spectacular all night meteor showers to take your breath away!

Redesigning and refurbishing the simple cabin where a family of four adventurous homesteaders once lived has truly been a labor of love for us, from my husband Curt’s custom door-mount coat hooks made from antique railroad spikes to his handcast concrete bathroom counter. And we’re proud to have created unique furniture and cool desert decor from recycled cabin features and local Sky Village swapmeet finds, too! The cabin's rear wall now has the perfect huge picture window for wildlife watching, stargazing and desert dreaming, plus the new soaring ceilings with clerestory window accents allow passage of light and a cooling breeze throughout. Fully draped sliding glass doors to the east also open the central cabin space to spectacular sunrises, an outdoor seating and propane BBQ grill area with comfy full-size hammock, and even more amazing scenic vistas to enjoy with pillars of weather-worn rocks sculpted by time. There’s also a fun, cool story behind the 900 pound boulder conveniently placed in the bathroom's open shower as well – just one more one-of-a-kind aspect of Rancho Rockotillo!

We’ve waited almost 20 years from when we first settled in to renew the original homestead cabin on our property and to invite you, our very special guests, to come share and enjoy your own memorable time in rural Joshua Tree. Curt and I also have a house on the property and enjoy visiting as often as we possibly can, but there will only be as much interaction as you desire. Whether we are onsite or off, we look forward to instantly responding to any questions you may have. And for your security and protection, we now have a Ring Video Doorbell, but rest assured this is our ONLY camera on the property, and we only confirm front of door activity upon arrival. Also please note – due to liability issues and as stated in our house rules, we are unable to welcome any non-registered guests or extra vehicles onto the property without prior consent. Also, this is the SoCal desert, and local wildlife you may encounter on and off the Rancho property can possibly include bobcats, coyotes, rattlesnakes, mountain lions and various insects. Please stay aware when out and about! Thanks for understanding.
We hope you’ll visit our Joshua Tree haven soon, and make it your high desert homestead away from home!
Thank you,
Laurie & Curt

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  • Feature Features
  • Map Map
  • School District Availability
  • Review Review

Feature Features

  • PETS

    No Pets Allowed
  • SAFETY

    Carbon Monoxide Detector Installed (host Has Indicated There Is A Carbon Monoxide Detector On The Property) Deadbolt Lock Fire Extinguisher First Aid Kit Smoke Detector Installed (host Has Indicated There Is A Smoke Detector On The Property)
  • BEDROOM

    1 Bedroom Bed Sheets Provided Memory Foam Mattress Sofa Bed
  • KITCHEN

    Coffee Grinder Coffee/tea Maker Cookware/dishes/utensils Electric Kettle Microwave Oven Paper Towels Refrigerator Stovetop
  • LAUNDRY

    Near Laundromat
  • PARKING

    Car Required Onsite Parking
  • INTERNET

    WiFi Available
  • OUTDOORS

    Barbecue Grill Garden Outdoor Furniture Patio
  • POOL/SPA

    Hot Tub
  • BATHROOMS

    1 Bathroom Hair Dryer Rainfall Showerhead Shampoo Shower Soap Toilet Paper Towels Provided
  • LANGS SPOKEN

    English
  • THINGS TO DO

    Bicycle On Site Birdwatching Nearby Cycling Nearby Hiking Nearby Hiking/biking Trails Nearby Horse Riding Nearby Mountain Biking Nearby Mountain Climbing Nearby Rock Climbing Nearby Wildlife And Game Walks Nearby
  • ENTERTAINMENT

    Books Games Stereo
  • LIVING SPACES

    Dining Room
  • CLIMATE CONTROL

    Air Conditioning Heating
  • LOCATION HIGHLIGHTS

    In A Rural Location Near A Hospital
  • SERVICES AND CONVENIENCES

    Iron/ironing Board
  • SUITABILITY/ACCESSIBILITY

    Designated Smoking Areas If You Have Requests For Specific Accessibility Needs, Please Contact The Property Using The Information On The Reservation Confirmation Received After Booking. Wheelchair Accessible

CheckIn Check-in : 03:00 PM CheckOut Check-out : 11:00 AM
No Wheelchair No smoking No pets Children allowed
Occupancy Max occupancy : 3

Map Map

School District Availability

Review Review

  • Sarah

    Submitted Nov 24, 2024

    Stayed Nov 22, 2024

    It was a great experience especially if you love the peace and quiet and being away from it all. The hot tub was the best part to relax and enjoy the stars at night. The host was very helpful and made sure we had evening we needed! Great hiking trails right outside your door!

  • Daniel S

    Submitted Nov 11, 2024

    Stayed Nov 2, 2024

    We enjoyed the remoteness of the property with its open access to a wide swath of high desert near Joshua Tree Park. The kitchen was fully stocked with lots of food and drink and utensils. It was nice to have a hot tub on the property but if you want to use it the night you arrive, be sure to crank up the temperature right away as it takes a long time to heat up from the 80 deg it was at when we got there. The one nit we had to pick was the nosiness of the fridge and mini-split which took awhile to get used.

  • Imola

    Submitted Oct 1, 2022

    Stayed Sep 26, 2022

    It was the most magnificent place I have ever been The stars the silence The place was amazing and Laurie is the friendliest host I have ever met

  • Jun

    Submitted Jul 22, 2022

    Stayed Jul 3, 2022

    Absolutely beautiful backyard. Its right next to Joshua Tree National Park. Its serene. Host Laurie is very thoughtful and provide all info for the stay. Late evening walking in the backyard was a unique experience for us. Stargazing while sitting in the Jacuzzi was so nice. It was so peaceful at night. We saw quail, kit fox, desert rabbit with big ears. My wife and i really enjoy our 3 nights stay at Rancho Rockotillo. Highly recommended. We will revisit next time. Thanks Laurie.

  • Matt

    Submitted Jun 23, 2022

    Stayed Jun 13, 2022

    Beautiful scenery, peaceful atmosphere... overall a lovely experience. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a desert getaway.

  • Susie

    Submitted Nov 28, 2020

    Stayed Nov 10, 2020

    We absolutely loved our stay here. It was peaceful beautiful and comfortable

  • Susie

    Submitted Nov 28, 2020

    Stayed Nov 10, 2020

    The tranquility, the care given to the property and the great locationwere all amazing We enjoyed the rocks surrounding us,the hot tub and stars at night. The covey's of quail that greeted us each morning were so cute. We loved being only minutes from Joshua Tree national Park and town.I wished we could have stayed longer and definitely plan to come back.

  • Molly V.

    Submitted Apr 16, 2026

    Stayed Apr 10, 2026

    The hosts went above expected to help set up a proposal. They were responsive and provided all details. The location/surrounding area is beautiful. What a great place, thank-you!

  • Maddy A.

    Submitted Apr 3, 2026

    Stayed Mar 29, 2026

    Amazing place. The pictures don’t do it justice. If you want to disconnect, enjoy nature and relax…this is it!! Hands down will be back!

  • Ryan K.

    Submitted Mar 19, 2026

    Stayed Mar 13, 2026

    We loved our stay at Rancho Rockotillo! The location was absolutely perfect and the check in process was a breeze. Clear direction and communication. Would definitely stay again when visiting Joshua Tree!

  • Joshua H.

    Submitted Mar 9, 2026

    Stayed Mar 6, 2026

    Everything was great. Nice sound system, fridge had snacks and left over beers. Excellent all around!

  • Kristina F.

    Submitted Feb 26, 2026

    Stayed Feb 23, 2026

    What a lovely spot in the world! The cabin was perfect for our mini retreat from reality. You are accommodating hosts who have thought of all the little details needed for an easy stay. Thank you!

  • Nadine and Andy L.

    Submitted Feb 23, 2026

    Stayed Feb 20, 2026

    Amazing panoramic desert views from this remodeled cabin situated amidst the boulders. So private, quiet and peaceful

  • Robin W.

    Submitted Feb 17, 2026

    Stayed Feb 15, 2026

    Magical landscape and setting. Beautiful home. Super fully stocked. Easy check-in and check-out instructions. Thank you for a lovely time!

  • floyd k.

    Submitted Feb 4, 2026

    Stayed Jan 31, 2026

    Host was quick to respond for everything. Very very very relaxing location. Really easy to get to the park, just do it before 8:00! Lines get long! Hot tub was lovely in the evening and in the morning the view over the valley was wonderful.

  • Holly N.

    Submitted Dec 31, 2025

    Stayed Dec 26, 2025

    Our 2nd stay at Rancho Rockotillo was just as amazing as our 1st stay last year. The host provides detailed instructions, making the drive in and stay effortless. The cabin is spacious, well stocked, and set in the most beautiful landscape. We enjoyed many bird visitors, as well as a coyote. While we did brave the National Park, we mostly hiked in the backyard, which had no crowds and we encountered no other hikers. The hot tub was amazing for hike recovery. We have fallen in love with this magical little cabin and can't imagine staying anywhere else in Joshua Tree, We'll see you next year!

  • KayDee K.

    Submitted Nov 30, 2025

    Stayed Nov 23, 2025

    Great host, great house, and incredible location.

  • Marlon K.

    Submitted Nov 20, 2025

    Stayed Nov 14, 2025

    Set the tub to 99 which was nice but would have liked it hotter. The tub experience under the stars was awesome.A great thing about the place is its proximity to the park and it has features that mimic what one sees in the park.

  • HeatherLee F.

    Submitted Nov 12, 2025

    Stayed Nov 2, 2025

    Yes, the host was exceptionally welcoming. I appreciated the host answering all of my questions. Mostly, I so loved the location and the beautiful Joshua Tree desert-scape directly behind the house!

  • Michelle J.

    Submitted Oct 29, 2025

    Stayed Oct 24, 2025

    It was a wonderful location beautiful views very quiet and nice! Definitely would stay here again on our trip back to Joshua Tree National Park.

  • Taylor P.

    Submitted May 29, 2025

    Stayed May 24, 2025

    The property was so peaceful and quiet it really felt like you were in the middle of nowhere while being 10 minutes from town and the national park. From grilling to lounging in the hamock star gazing everything was great. The mattress was also very comfortable to sleep on as someone with back problems.

  • Edith H.

    Submitted May 20, 2025

    Stayed May 16, 2025

    This cozy cabin was perfect with its calming views. We went boulder climbing, hiking, read books on the hammock, stargazed, and relaxed in the hot tub. The cabin was very clean and stocked with necessities. We had a romantic and amazing time. We will be back for our anniversary - thank you Laurie and Curt!!!

  • Lydia O.

    Submitted Apr 23, 2025

    Stayed Apr 21, 2025

    The place was exactly like it listed. We were within a mile of the west entrance to the national park and got going early so totally beat the heat and a lot of other people. The owner was super friendly and checked in regularly. I would definitely recommend this place.

  • Daniella H.

    Submitted Apr 9, 2025

    Stayed Apr 4, 2025

    Absolutely beautiful stay! Felt at home and had a beautiful view. Will book again im sure!

  • Mark T.

    Submitted Mar 17, 2025

    Stayed Mar 9, 2025

    Perfect spot for a couple that loves the desert! It's right on a trail that winds into J-Tree park through an area known as section 6 that has good mountain biking.

  • Shawn C.

    Submitted Mar 14, 2025

    Stayed Mar 5, 2025

    Rancho Rockotillo offered the perfect accommodations for our anniversary adventure in Joshua Tree NP. The space was inviting and comfortable. The kitchen amenities made it easy to prepare breakfasts and the grill was well cared for to make a steak dinner. The hot tub was delightful at the end of the day and even the morning we departed. The surroundings provided great photo opportunities. Thank you Laurie and Curt for thinking of your guests needs.

  • Mark C.

    Submitted Mar 3, 2025

    Stayed Feb 26, 2025

    Laurie was so timely in her communication and accommodating. Highly recommend her property

  • Sarah S.

    Submitted Feb 28, 2025

    Stayed Feb 20, 2025

    Gorgeous property with lovely views, perfect clean hot tub, clear directions to the place and good communication from host. Super close to the national park entrance. We loved it here.

  • David K.

    Submitted Feb 9, 2025

    Stayed Jan 31, 2025

    The home, property, location, and communications with the host combined to be the best travel experience we’ve ever had. We highly recommend and hope to be lucky enough to return.

  • Sheldon S.

    Submitted Jan 23, 2025

    Stayed Jan 18, 2025

    I think the location is the very best part of this listing! Really great spot for stargazing and super convenient to park entrance. Had a great stay!

  • Patrick H.

    Submitted Dec 30, 2024

    Stayed Dec 24, 2024

    Great place! Easy to access Joshua Tree National Park with just a 5 minute drive. Hotub was great at night for star gazing.

  • Holly N.

    Submitted Dec 29, 2024

    Stayed Dec 26, 2024

    You will not be disappointed if you stay here. We just returned from 3 nights here and were sad to leave. Just as described-kitchen very well stocked, spa perfect for post-hike muscles, and miles to explore in the backyard. Just a mile or so from the north entrance of the National Park, we were able to get in early and back to homebase quickly. Host very helpful and responsive. Can't wait for our next trip to Joshua Tree so we can enjoy this cabin again!

  • Karen W.

    Submitted Nov 17, 2024

    Stayed Nov 7, 2024

    We loved staying at Rancho Rockotillo, from the views to the cute cabin and comfy bed to soaking in the hot tub after a day of hiking in the park. Highly recommended!

  • Steven S.

    Submitted Oct 28, 2024

    Stayed Oct 10, 2024

    Sweet and simple - awesome location/surroudings. A great studio get away.

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Total

Includes taxes and fees
$339+
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