1

It takes about 45 min. to get from PS to Joshua Tree (either north or south entrances.) I'd be inclined to stay in PS because in October the days will be short enough that you'll be spending more hours outside the park than inside, and the range of accommodations, restaurants, etc. is infinitely greater in PS than in Twentynine Palms.

2

Are you up to camping in the park? Coldish at night but doable. As to hotel choices.. If you want help you need to give a budget. In dollars, not adjectives.

3

Thanks very much for your responses, both.

To be honest, camping is not an option, it's just not something I fancy on my own and in October. With regard to hotel choices, it's not so much about budget (hotel rates don't really vary much between the two), but about convenience of getting to the park and making the best use of my time in exploring both the park and the surrounding area.

I think I'll book a couple of nights in Palm Springs and see how I go once I'm there. At that time of the year and midweek I should be able to pick up a room fairly easily.

Thanks again!

4

Certainly, the poster is correct that staying in PSP is the better option, both in availability of accommodations and food/supplies. However, be aware that October is High Season in Palm Springs and hotel prices tend to shoot up dramatically. And budget hotels in the city leave a lot to be desired. Personally, if it were my decision, I would be staying in a motel/hotel outside of the main city and commuting by car. There isn't much to do in PSP anyway, so it's not like you don't have the time to commute. DO consider a trip to Death Valley, too! It's not nearby, but the weather is perfect for a visit and Death Valley is incredible. It defies description as to what makes it so enchanting, but few people are disappointed when they make the effort to get there. I've also camped there and it's magical ... and I'm no camper.

5

Hicksville in the town of Joshua Tree sounds interesting, or at least different. I have not stayed there. You can use Hotwire or Priceline to find deals in Palm Springs, and adjacent towns like Palm Desert.

Edited by: BubbaK

6

Thanks very much BubbaK, Hicksville does look very interesting. I will check it out when I'm there and maybe stay if they have availability (and a reasonable rate). I will report back if I decide to stay there. Otherwise, I am still drawn towards Palm Spring at least for the first couple of nights.