Desert Destination: Shelter Joshua Tree

2 mins read

Joshua Tree is still relatively remote for a California desert destination, which is part of what makes it so awesome.

While nearby Palm Springs has endless hotels and home rentals to choose from, Joshua Tree is a little more limited in its accommodations. My favorite Airbnb spot in the area is a property called Shelter.

What you’ll find upon arriving at Shelter

There are actually three different houses on the Shelter property, each with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. They’re far enough apart from one another that they can be rented separately, but close enough that they can be rented all together as well.

Okay spoiler alert, one of these homes is owned by my uncles. My Grandpa bought the land way back in the day and it sat there untouched until they turned it into what Shelter is today.

Each of the homes has its own private hot tub that is accessible from a short pathway walk. Being slightly set apart from the houses (and very set apart from the neighbors) the hot tubs offer prime star watching at night.

Inside Shelter

The warm modern design of the homes includes very cool use of window space. The views outside are carefully framed by the windows, which offer no competition thanks to minimal design features. Shelter One was actually built around a Joshua Tree so as not to disturb the land. There’s an intentionally natural feel to the layout, which makes it feel really peaceful and aligned.

Each of the homes on the property is outfitted with art and goods from artisans that are local to the Joshua Tree area, adding to the authentic vibe of the property.

Personal highs at Shelter Joshua Tree

The outdoor shower at Shelter One, the custom-made shampoo offered in the house, and the absolutely always incredible desert light.

On this particular visit I mostly hung out at the house but did go out for dinner and dancing at nearby Pappy and Harriet’s. The western-style spot is located in Pioneer Town and features awesome live bands most nights.

I'm Kate Ferguson, an L.A.-based Writer, Filmmaker, Photographer, Social Media Strategist, and Blogger at, right here, That's Random Kate! (Previously Divvy Mag.) I love storytelling in its various forms, growth, shooting 35mm film, learning super random facts, building community, and admiring palm trees. Find me on Instagram: @KateFerg. (Where there will definitely be 35mm photos of palm trees.)