Thank you for purchasing your ticket!

BE PREPARED

There is no cell service in the park, please plan accordingly.

Please allow ample time to arrive and park at the meeting location. For classes meeting inside the park, it can take up to 45 minutes to go through an entrance gate on weekends after 9:00 AM (though 15 - 20 minutes is typical).

Check weather conditions and dress accordingly
Anytime you venture outdoors, please make sure to communicate with someone where you are going and when you plan to return

RUNNING LATE? PLEASE CONTACT:

Desert Institute Manager - Benny Erdahl: 949-241-9693

Education Director - Dr. Justin Lenzi: 760-819-4714

or call the Desert Institute Office: 760-820-1103

Please contact us if you have questions about your ability to participate in a Desert Institute activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?

Desert Institute will provide a full refund if we are notified more than 14 days in advance. We are unable to process refunds for any cancellations less than 14 days in advance.

DOES DESERT INSTITUTE CANCEL ACTIVITIES FOR WEATHER OR LOW ENROLLMENT?

If we do not meet our minimum of 6 registered participants for any given activity, we will likely cancel the activity with at least 48+ hours’ notice.

Desert Institute runs classes rain or shine, with the exception of astrophotography classes, which require mostly clear skies in order to be successful.

We recommend that you purchase travel insurance, as we are unable to reimburse for expenses you incur due to a canceled class, such as airfare and hotel.

WHAT IF I FORGOT SOMETHING I NEED?

Our visitor centers and park stores are stocked with amazing essentials for your adventure. Preview or purchase items from our online shop; we carry hats, shirts, bandanas, water bottles, notebooks, maps, books, and more!

CAN I BRING MY KIDS? MY SPOUSE? PETS?

Only registered participants may attend Desert Institute activities (unless noted in the activity description). If this is a kid-friendly activity, please make sure your child/ren is/are registered and meet the age requirements.

As much as we love pets, we don’t allow them in the field with any of our activities.

You'll receive an email confirmation with more details about your event!

-Desert Institute Team

Contact the host of Joshua Tree Writers Festival (presented by Desert Institute)