Mojave Moon Ranch

The Mojave Moon Ranch is a private desert estate of more than 220 acres near Joshua Tree, California, a few minutes from Joshua Tree National Park and Pioneertown. It is a home rather than a hotel, with cactus gardens, rocky ridges and open desert plateaus, and it takes event inquiries alongside stays for romantic getaways and creative retreats.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

We like Mojave Moon for couples who want privacy and a setting that feels nothing like a standard venue. You are on a large private ranch, close viewing of its landmark sculpture is reserved for guests, and the day can be as small and personal as you want. It suits couples planning an intimate wedding with their closest people, and anyone who likes the idea of an art-filled desert backdrop.

Ceremonies

Ceremonies take place outdoors. The cactus gardens are a natural choice, with long views across the desert to boulder-strewn mountains. The ranch is also home to Transmission, a large steel and concrete sculpture by artist Daniel Popper, set with mirrored mosaic moons, which makes a striking backdrop for photographs.

Receptions and food

The house has an indoor-outdoor living space with stone walls, exposed timber ceilings and large windows that open onto the desert. Weddings here have used it for a long family-style dinner, flowing out onto the land as the sun sets. Speak to the ranch about how catering and other suppliers are arranged for your date.

Staying

The ranch offers overnight stays, with a bedroom that looks out over a wide sweep of desert and a lounge known as the rock room. Ask the team how many guests can stay on site, and plan nearby rentals or hotels in Joshua Tree and Yucca Valley for everyone else.

Getting there and the area

Joshua Tree is about an hour from Palm Springs International Airport and around two and a half hours from Los Angeles by car. The ranch has its own helipad for quicker arrivals. The national park, Pioneertown and the small towns along Highway 62 give guests plenty to do around the wedding.

Good to know

• The ranch covers more than 220 acres of private desert.
• The sculpture can only be seen up close by guests of the ranch.
• Event inquiries are handled by email.