Joshua Tree - FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions:

What will the weather be like?

JT-011

Date: 05/02/2007 Views: 32

Good question. There seems to be no such thing as typical in Joshua Tree. We have seen cold and windy weather this time of year and we have also wondered when it will ever cool down. Average highs in late March are in the 70's with the average low being in the mid 40's at night. If you stick to the equipment list you will not be disapointed!

Do I really need everything on the equipment list?

You can probably guess the answer to this one. Please try to follow the equipment list as closely as you can. If you want to stray from our suggestions at least contact us or someone at the school who is involved with the trip to see what they think.

What if I need to contact my parents/child if there is an emergency?

Other than an emergency you should not plan on being able to make contact. But... It is fairly easy to make contact should the need arise. For emergencies: Parents may call Todd Vogel's cell phone at 760-920-0774 but please note that this will only work in the mornings and evenings when we are in camp. Please DO NOT call just to find out how things are going. If you need to contact us at other times and if it is a true emergency you can call the Park (760-367-5502) and, using the itinerary, they will be able to find us and help us make contact with you. For TRUE EMERGENCIES the park 24 hour dispatch number is 909-383-5651 and we will be staying in Sheep Pass Group Camp. If your child needs to contact you then they will be able to use the cell phone in camp.

What are the emergency services in the Park?

There is a regular hospital in the town of Joshua Tree and emergency services such as ambulance are available in the Park.

Can I send special food along?

Please do not send any food unless arrangments have been made ahead of time. We will not have extra space in our food storage and food may not be left in tents, packs, or in vehicles. We can accomodate any special dietary need IF WE FIND OUT AHEAD OF TIME. The medical information form is the place to tell us about any special needs.

Are there showers?

Nope, no showers. And all our water is hauled in. There's enough for drinking, dishes, and cleaning hands and faces and no extra.

What is the bathroom situation?

The bathrooms are now the nice, National Park standard issue "SSTs"; roomy, clean pit toilets.

What are the instructor Qualifications?

Todd Vogel is the lead instructor for this program. He has worked with similar programs in outdoor education since the mid 1980's and has lead some 300 programs for schools and organizations to Joshua Tree National Park. He is a Nationally certified mountain guide and is a trainer and certifier for the Professional Climbing Instructors Association. He is a certified Wilderness First Responder (WFR) which is considered to be the standard emergency medical training for outdoor leaders.

What if I have other questions?

Please contact Todd Vogel at 760-920-0774