4. Joshua Tree National Park

First of all, if you love the wonder of the desert, this is the place to let your heart run free. There are novice-hiking trails (my kind), to hard core - send smoke signals for help - hiking trails (not my kind). Whether you are the scenic drive type or the get out and climb type there are many places in this huge park for you. I usually begin my trips with the visitor's center in 29 Palms, a small military town with lots of heart. The visitor's center will give you all the info you need; just remember the rules of the desert - always tell someone where you are going and bring along plenty of water.