Cottonwood Spring | Joshua Tree National Park
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Review & FAQ:

  • What is Cottonwood Spring Oasis?
    • One of Joshua Tree National Park's best-kept secrets, the Cottonwood Spring Oasis is only seven miles from the park's southern entrance. The spring is an effect of earthquake activity and was used by the Cahuilla Indians for centuries.
  • What artifacts were left behind by the Cahuilla Indians?
    • The Cahuilla Indians left behind clay pots (ollas) and bedrock mortars in the Cottonwood Spring area.
  • Why was Cottonwood Spring important to miners?
    • Cottonwood Spring became a significant water stop for teamsters, miners, and prospectors. Several gold mines were constructed near the oasis due to the necessity of water to process gold.
  • What mining structures can still be seen at Cottonwood Spring?
    • Visitors can see what’s left of an arrastra, a primitive gold mill, near the spring. Concrete ruins of two other gold mills that existed later can also be seen.
  • What hiking trails start at Cottonwood Spring?
    • Several hiking trails begin at Cottonwood Spring. A three-mile loop trail leads to Mastodon Peak, offering fascinating geology and excellent views, as well as the Winona Mill Site and Mastodon Mine.
  • Where does the short hiking trail from Cottonwood Spring lead?
    • A short trail takes hikers to what’s left of Moorten’s Mill, passing through desert willow and palo verde trees.
  • What can be seen along the Cottonwood Wash trail?
    • Another short trail leads to a dry falls and past a second oasis along the easy Cottonwood Wash path. During wet years, red-spotted toads and rushing water can be seen at the falls.
  • What wildlife can be spotted at Cottonwood Spring?
    • Bighorn sheep are often spotted during the early hours as they come for water.
  • What is the Lost Palms Oasis Trail?
    • The Lost Palms Oasis trail is a much longer hike, eight miles total round trip, and offers the park’s largest stand of fan palms.
  • Is Cottonwood Spring a good place for birding?
    • Cottonwood Spring is one of the best spots in Joshua Tree National Park for birding. Visitors should bring binoculars and sit for a while to observe.
  • What facilities are available at the Cottonwood Spring campground?
    • Half a mile along a trail from the spring is a campground with shaded picnic tables, restrooms, and water provided.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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