Registration
You may register by phone, fax, mail, or on-line at www.joshuatree.org/dihome.html. Please register early, our classes have limited class sizes. You may also register using the registration form found on page 17.
Course Information Packet
Upon receipt of your registration, we will send you a course itinerary, map, enrollment confirmation/entrance fee waiver, and information on clothing and equipment needs. Local lodging and camping information is available upon request.
Safety, Insurance, and Physical Fitness
Every effort is made to ensure safety on Desert Institute courses. However, participants are responsible for their own safety and accident insurance. JTNPA does not accept responsibility for lost, stolen, or damaged property or any bodily injury incurred during the course. You must sign a liability waiver in order to participate in the course. Participants must be in good physical condition for courses/activities in a desert that may be hot, dry, windy, and sometimes surprisingly cold.
Health Questionnaire and Waiver of Liability
Each participant will be required to fill out a Liability Waiver/Assumption of Risk and Health Questionnaire before participating in any course. Your information is confidential and will be used in case of emergency only. Participants must provide their own health and accident insurance. Please obtain a doctor’s clearance if you have any condition that may impact your ability to participate in a class.
Weather, Clothing, and Equipment
Courses are held rain or shine. We reserve the right to change the course itinerary due to weather or other conditions. Students should be prepared for a variety of desert weather conditions, including cold and windy days. Appropriate clothing, footwear, and sun protection are very important. Clothing and equipment needs will be identified in your course information packet. Be prepared - bring plenty of water!
Camping & Park Information
Camping is available in the park on a first come, first serve basis. There are two campgrounds, Indian Cove and Black Rock Canyon, that are available for reservations. It is necessary to call 1-877-444-6777 or go on-line at www.recreation.gov to reserve a site for Indian Cove located in Twentynine Palms, or Black Rock Canyon located in Yucca Valley. Campground fees will apply. Participants are responsible for their own accommodations and food. Visit the park website at www.nps.gov/jotr or the JTNPA website at www.joshuatree.org for more information.
Children and Pets
Our courses are designed for adults. An adult must accompany children under 18; the minimum age is 16. Due to federal regulations, pets are not allowed on courses or waiting unattended in personal vehicles.
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel, please notify us at least seven days prior to the start of the course and we will process your request minus a $10 processing fee. No refunds, transfers, or credits will be granted after the seven-day date. Please note that we cannot make any exceptions to this refund policy for any reason, including but not limited to medical reasons, illness, travel delays, personal situations, emergencies, or weather. This program depends on registration alone for its funding. While inconvenient, please understand that this policy enables us to sustain our programs even with last minute cancellations. Course fees only cover a portion of Desert Institute program costs.
Academic Credit
Credit is available from UCR Extension, University of California, Riverside. Optional credit courses and number of units are listed on page 10-11. Credit fees are listed separately from noncredit fees. Credit units are based on a quarter system. Credit students may be required to successfully complete assignments or exams. Teachers may apply for Professional Career Development through their school district.
Discounts
There is a $10 discount per class for JTNPA or PINE members, including those who join when they register. PINE organizations are listed on page 12. Discounts may not be combined.
Funding
The Desert Institute is sponsored by the Joshua Tree National Park Association, and operates with the full endorsement of the NPS. Course fees only cover a portion of Desert Institute program costs.