Summary:
The Moondance brings a little music and old-ranch soul to a Joshua Tree getaway. This reimagined 1961 horse ranch house sits on 2.5 acres near the national park, with bright, vintage-inspired interiors and sweeping desert views. Play a few records, challenge your friends to horseshoes, and spend the evening around the fire pit before slipping into the hot tub beneath the desert sky.
The Space:
The Moondance has the relaxed, collected character of a home that's been loved and thoughtfully reinvented. White-beamed ceilings, warm wood cabinetry, rattan pendants, and woven Southwest textiles bring texture to the bright, open interiors. Vintage furnishings, desert artwork, and a guitar hanging on the wall give a nod to the area's creative and musical history. At approximately 2,000 square feet, the house feels spacious without losing its intimacy, with comfortable places to gather and quieter corners to enjoy on your own.
Designed for families and groups of up to nine, the home makes spending time together feel effortless. The open kitchen welcomes everyone into the conversation, the living room invites long afternoons with a good record, and the outdoor spaces offer plenty of reasons to stay home for the evening. Beyond the house, Joshua trees, cholla, and wide mountain horizons create a distinctly Mojave backdrop.
-Highlights-
► Hot tub with lounge chairs and panoramic, 360-degree desert views
► 2.5 private acres near Joshua Tree National Park
► Propane fire pit with Adirondack seating
► Covered patio, outdoor dining, and propane BBQ
► Outdoor shower, horseshoe pit, and XL Jenga
► Record player, Bluetooth sound system, TV, and books
► Reimagined 1961 ranch house with approximately 2,000 square feet
► Fully equipped kitchen with Chemex pour-over and Capresso burr grinder
► Dining and bar tables with seating for up to 10
► Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and flexible sleeping arrangements for up to nine guests
► Dedicated workspace and Wi-Fi
► Mini-split heating and air conditioning
► Crib, travel crib on request, and high chair
-Outdoor Amenities-
Outside, the Moondance feels like your own little stretch of the high desert. Start on the covered patio, where rattan armchairs, a hanging chair, and an overhead fan make a comfortable spot to read or enjoy the breeze. The surrounding 2.5 acres are dotted with Joshua trees, cholla, beavertail cactus, and creosote, with expansive views of the mountains and open Mojave landscape.
There's plenty of room for a little friendly competition. Set up a game of horseshoes or XL Jenga, then fire up the propane BBQ and bring everyone together around the picnic tables. An outdoor shower offers a refreshing rinse after a day exploring the desert.
As the light begins to change, the fire pit becomes the natural gathering place. Adirondack chairs surround the flames, with views stretching toward the boulder-covered mountains and San Gorgonio to the west. Later, head to the hot tub, where lounge chairs and unobstructed desert panoramas make it easy to linger outside long after dinner.
The property offers generous outdoor space, but the acreage is not fully fenced.
-Living Area-
The living room has a playful, vintage personality, with a comfortable sofa, colorful Southwest pillows, woven wall hangings, and an eclectic collection of artwork. A leather lounge chair beneath the wall-mounted guitar makes an inviting reading spot, while the open layout keeps everyone connected to the kitchen and dining area.
Music is part of the home's character. Browse the records, put something on the turntable, or connect to the Bluetooth sound system while you relax. There's also a TV and books for quieter evenings.
A daybed with a pull-out trundle provides sleeping space for two additional guests, and a dedicated workspace offers a convenient place to catch up on anything that can't wait until after the trip.
-Kitchen and Dining-
The bright, open kitchen is made for cooking without missing out on the company. Natural wood cabinetry, white countertops, open shelving, and an island with stools create a welcoming space where everyone can join in, whether they're preparing dinner or simply keeping the cook entertained.
The kitchen comes fully equipped with an electric stove, oven, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, microwave, blender, toaster, kettle, and the cookware and tableware needed for meals at home.
Coffee gets some special attention here, with a Chemex pour-over setup and Capresso burr grinder alongside a regular coffee maker. Take your time with the first cup of the morning before heading out to explore.
A large wood dining table beneath a woven pendant light anchors the dining area, while additional bar seating brings the total dining capacity to 10. It's an easy place for leisurely breakfasts, shared dinners, and one more conversation before calling it a night.
-Bedrooms and Bathrooms-
The Moondance has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with flexible arrangements that work especially well for families or groups of friends.
The primary bedroom features a king-size Casper bed that can be converted into two twin beds, allowing the sleeping arrangement to suit your group. A rattan daybed provides an additional sleeping option best suited to a child or someone under 5'6".
The second and third bedrooms each feature a queen-size bed, accented by striped Southwest blankets and woven wall hangings that carry the home's warm, desert-inspired style into the sleeping spaces.
For additional flexibility, a twin rollaway bed with a soft foam mattress can be placed in any bedroom. The living room daybed and pull-out trundle can accommodate two more guests. The home's maximum occupancy is nine.
Families traveling with little ones will also appreciate the available crib, high chair, and travel crib upon request.
Guest Access:
The entire house and property are yours to enjoy! Please note that a few supply closets stay locked to store rental supplies.
No more than 10 people may spend the night on the property without written permission.
The Neighborhood:
The Moondance is in a quiet, secluded part of Joshua Tree near the national park boundary, surrounded by Joshua trees and desert plants. The boundary of Joshua Tree National Park is about half a mile from the home.
Below are travel times to nearby shops, bars, eateries and attractions:
► 5 minutes ➔ Downtown Joshua Tree shops, bars & restaurants
Getting Around:
A personal vehicle is necessary to get around in this area - rideshare apps are not guaranteed.
Other Things to Note:
-House-Specific Rules-
► Please keep music at a reasonable volume and turn it off by the start of quiet hours.
► Please avoid using the hot tub right after it has been serviced, while chemical levels are temporarily higher.
► Weddings and events are by inquiry only and are subject to permits and applicable law.
-Pool and Hot Tub Service-
The hot tub is serviced Tuesdays and Fridays, approximately between 9am and 4pm. Please note that these times are estimates and may change slightly due to our technician's busy schedule. He will not approach the house but will go directly through to the backyard.
-Pet Policy-
We welcome your dogs! There is a $100 per dog per stay fee, limit of 2 dogs maximum. Please note on your reservation how many dogs you are bringing. There is an unauthorized pet fee of $500. Please use the provided dog sheets before allowing your dogs on any furniture. Cats and other pets are not allowed due to the owner's severe allergy.
-Local Experiences-
We've handpicked an incredible selection of local vendors to enhance your Joshua Tree stay, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and everything in between. Whether you're seeking relaxation with sound baths, yoga sessions, meditation guides, in-home massages, facials, aromatherapy or the convenience of a personal chef or caterer, you'll find options to elevate your experience. For thrill-seekers, explore rock climbing adventures, dune buggy rides, or horseback riding. Other unique experiences include guided stargazing tours under the breathtaking desert sky or guided hikes accompanied by mini donkeys!
All vendor details are available in our guidebook upon booking, making it easy to craft your ideal getaway. Many services can come directly to the house, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable stay!
-Wildlife & Safety-
The desert landscape is teeming with wildlife and natural beauty, offering a unique connection to nature, but it's important to be mindful of the creatures and plants that call this area home. Guests may encounter a variety of wildlife during their stay, and while direct encounters with dangerous animals like coyotes, snakes, scorpions, bobcats, mountain lions and other desert dwellers are rare, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to keep a safe distance from these creatures when spotted. Additionally, the desert is dotted with sharp cacti and other spiky plants. For your safety, always supervise children, pets, ESAs, and service animals while outdoors. Dogs should remain on a leash at all times and be watched closely while outdoors, as they can wander into potentially unsafe situations with wildlife or plants. By booking this property, guests acknowledge the potential for wildlife encounters and assume responsibility for their safety and the safety of their group. By respecting the local environment and staying aware, you can fully enjoy the magic of the desert.
-Security Camera-
For your security, there are three exterior Ring cameras at the front of the house. They do not see into any private areas or the back of the property.
-Cell Service-
Cell phone coverage in the area may be limited or unavailable depending on your carrier. Wi-Fi is available at the property.
-Damage Waiver Policy-
Each reservation requires either a refundable security deposit or a non-refundable damage waiver.