Education
Expanding education in Joshua Tree National Park and the surrounding areas is one of the core purposes of JTNPA as an organization. We work to create community events, tours, classes, and programs that give park lovers access to the rich history, science, and arts of this incredible park.
Desert Institute
Desert Institute is the educational branch of JTNPA. Founded in 1999 to expand educational programming in the park, Desert Institute offers field classes, workshops, adventures, and social events that span a wide variety of topics. Desert Institute (DI) was established by Joe Zarki, a former Chief of Interpretation at Joshua Tree National Park and current JTNPA Board Vice President.
Desert Institute works to provide a rich learning environment to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds, from citizen scientists to elementary school students. We offer seasonal programming, as well as private tours within the park.
You can help support this important work! Desert Institute is funded both through donations and grants. Make a difference when you:
- Attend a class or book a tour!
- Donate to education!
- Sponsor a class or season!
DiscoverJTREE
DiscoverJTREE brings transformative outdoor educational opportunities to thousands of students in the Morongo Basin. These residential youth programs are carefully designed to go beyond classroom learning. By engaging directly with the desert environment, students build a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of natural systems and human history.
- You can be a part of this exciting new venture when you:
- Donate to education!
- Attend the annual Night Sky Festival fundraiser!
$25,000
Keys Ranch Tours & Research
JTNPA fully funds the ranger-led tours at Keys Ranch, as well as research and preservation efforts on this historic homestead. This unique homestead was developed by Bill and Frances Keys for over 60 years.
Ranger-led tours bring Keys Ranch’s history to life for park visitors, allowing for firsthand experience of the preserved ranch house and other historical objects.
Joshua Tree National Park Library
JTNPA contributed funds toward the completion of the Joshua Tree National Park Library. Located at park headquarters, the library preserves books, scientific research, maps, photographs, government publications, and archival materials.
The library is open by appointment only. To learn more and request an appointment, visit the
$50,000
Junior Ranger Program
Explore, learn, and protect with the Junior Ranger Program! Junior Ranger is a cornerstone of the National Park Service’s mission to inspire the next generation of public lands stewards.
In Joshua Tree National Park, these young park lovers explore the unforgettable desert landscape, learn about the plants and wildlife living here, and begin to understand how they can work to protect it.
Publishing is the largest single expense of maintaining the Junior Ranger Program in Joshua Tree National Park, with over 70,000 booklets printed annually. Contributions ensure that aspiring rangers, both young and old, can experience this life-changing program.
How Can You Support Joshua Tree National Park?
Donate
Make a one-time or monthly contribution to conservation, education, science, and infrastructure efforts in Joshua Tree National Park.
Get Involved!
Conservation requires the time and talents. Complete the volunteer interest form to be notified when volunteer opportunities open.
Get some gear!
Get your Joshua Tree merchandise at visitor centers or online. These retail sales help support Joshua Tree National Park.
Become an Official Park Lover
Park Lover memberships are one of the primary ways JTNPA raises funds for the park. Memberships also come with exclusive perks, like discounts on merch and classes.
Attend a class or event!
JTNPA holds fundraising events throughout the year, as well as classes that directly benefit specific programs. Check out the calendar to see what’s coming up.
JTNPA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations made by Park Partners are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law (EIN #95-2312513).
Learn more about our commitment to financial transparency and accountability.
