Cottonwood Spring is a lush desert oasis located in the southern portion of the Joshua Tree National Park near the Cottonwood Visitor Center off Cottonwood Spring Road. The spring is a short walk down a dirt path from the parking area, providing an opportunity to see a wide range of plant and wildlife. This trailhead also provides access to longer hikes on the Mastodon Peak Loop and Lost Palms Oasis Trail. The Cottonwood Spring Wilderness Backpacking Board is located at the trailhead for backpackers to self register for overnight backpacking trips in the area.