Joshua Tree Station Field Review

It’s rare to find a hotel or chain that truly finds a new way to hotel, but that’s exactly what I found at Field Station Joshua Tree during a recent visit.

Field Station is the new brand from the creators of the Airstream resort chain and Glamping AutoCamp (which has properties in places like Yosemite, Russian River Valley in Sonoma, and Zion). Field Station is the affordable arm of the brand that targets outdoor enthusiasts looking for “a hotel for everyday adventures.”

This goal translates into more affordable rates, spacious but minimalist rooms with plenty of space for gear and people (this place was designed with families and groups in mind), and plenty of shared relaxation areas like fire pits. and a swimming pool where guests can meet and mingle. . It’s nicer than an inn or motel, but less upscale than a typical hotel, making it a good choice for the Joshua Tree crowd.

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This is the second Field station (the first is in Moab), and part of the brand’s way of keeping things affordable is by renovating existing motels. In a previous life, Field Station Joshua Tree was a Travelodge, and the multiple outbuildings, drive-up parking, and exterior hallways allude to its motel past. But from its in-room shopping details, including Nomadix quilted blankets, Snowpeak camping sofas, Slowtide towels and Public Goods toiletries, to its plentiful gear and bike storage in every room , it is a brand clearly designed for and by outdoor enthusiasts.

Things to know about Field Station Joshua Tree

• Field Station is not actually in Joshua Tree, but about 20 minutes west of the town of Yucca Valley. It is also a 20-minute drive from Joshua Tree National Park.
• The lobby is part registration office, part gear store, part cafe, and part lounge (with area-focused maps and books). There is also a filtered water tap and an area with snacks to take away.
• The rooms are designed to be functional – with plenty of storage for gear and big, comfortable beds – but not very comfortable, which supports the idea that the reason people come to Joshua Tree is to get out.
• Since this is a reinvented motel, you can park your car near the room; ideal if you have bikes, climbing gear or coolers.

Joshua Tree Station Field reviews

Because it’s new, Field Station doesn’t have a huge number of reviews, but the available reviews and ratings definitely trend positively. Tripadvisor users give it a five out of five, and Kayak gives it a 9.4 out of 10 (a Wonderful rating).

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Important details about Field Station Joshua Tree

Location

Field Station is located in Yucca Valley, approximately 40 minutes from the Palm Springs Airport and 20 minutes from the town of Joshua Tree and the national park. It takes less than 10 minutes from Field Station to Pioneertown. It’s a short drive to grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, but not really walkable. And although it’s right along the busy 29 Palms Highway, it backs onto neighborhoods, so it’s generally pretty quiet. And yes, there are Joshua trees on the property.

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The property

From the front, Field Station doesn’t look like much. But once you arrive at the hotel, its charms begin to unfold. Desert landscaping weaves rocks and cacti into the outdoor spaces, Adirondack chairs and picnic tables keep the ambiance friendly, the pool and hot tub attract people in the afternoons while people start filtering in after their hikes and climbs, and bocce ball and other outdoor play areas tend to be popular in the late afternoon and early evening. Every morning and evening there is a campfire in the courtyard behind the hall.

Rooms

The rooms are simple but have everything needed for a comfortable stay. The beds are large, new and comfortable, and many rooms have double or queen bunk beds to make it easier to accommodate more people in a single room. There are a wide variety of room configurations and rooms can accommodate between two and seven people. Furniture is minimal, with pieces like camping chairs and couches. The walls are white and mostly bare, with only a few framed photographs and prints. There is tons of storage including pegboards, cubbies and benches. Do you like the material? There is a shopping QR code in the room near the sink where you can pick up items.

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