It’s A Vibe- Escape to The Black Cactus, a unique wild-west-styled home on 5 acres in the Joshua Tree foothills. This immersive desert oasis offers breathtaking mountain views, a one-of-a-kind heated lazy river pool, a 102° hot tub, and a magical rooftop deck for stargazing. Perfect for a memorable, photo-worthy getaway, this cozy cabin-feel home provides a rejuvenating escape from the daily grind. Float, soak, and relax under the clear desert skies.
Welcome to The Black Cactus, an immersive desert oasis nestled on 5 acres in the amazing foothills. This unique wild-west-styled home offers breathtaking valley and mountain views, peaceful stillness, and clear starlit skies for a truly memorable, photo-worthy experience. Inspired by the likes of the Joshua Tree Saloon and Pioneertown, our brand-new home is designed to immerse you in the complete desert nomad experience. From the red swinging saloon doors to the solid walnut trim, every detail contributes to a rustic, warm cabin feel. The cozy interior perfectly frames the picturesque mountain and desert valley views, creating a rejuvenating escape from the daily grind. Key Features & Amenities: -One-of-a-kind heated lazy river pool for a resort-like stay. -Relaxing 102° hot tub. -Magical rooftop deck for unparalleled stargazing. -Wood campfire area for cozy evenings. -Vintage record player to set the mood.
🏠Welcome to The Black Cactus – House Rules & Guidelines
We want your stay to be safe, enjoyable, and comfortable. Please review the following rules and reminders to help us preserve our home and respect the desert environment we share.
🔐 Security & Verification • A valid photo ID is required from the booking guest prior to check-in • The name on the reservation must match the ID provided
🚭 Smoking, vaping, and e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited indoors. If smoking outside, please use a proper ashtray and dispose of all cigarette butts and smoking materials in the trash. Do not leave any cigarette butts or ashes on the property. Additional cleaning fees may apply if this rule is not followed.
🐾 Pets • Dogs are welcome! • $150 per dog per stay (maximum 2 dogs) • All pets must be authorized prior to arrival, and pet fees paid in advance • Pets must be house-trained, stay off furniture, and out of the hot tub • Unauthorized pet fee: $500 • Cats and other pets are not allowed • A small dog house is provided (max weight 25 lbs), complete with a bed and latch door
🌵 Wildlife Notice
The Joshua Tree desert is home to many wild creatures, including gophers, coyotes, spiders, snakes, and scorpions. While sightings are rare, please be mindful of your surroundings and always close doors.
PLEASE KEEP DOORS CLOSED at all times to avoid inviting in bugs, mice, or other desert critters.
🏊♂️ Pool & Hot Tub Rules • Guests use the pool and hot tub at their own risk • No lifeguard on duty — children must be supervised at all times • All guests must shower before and after using the pool or hot tub • No pets of any kind or size in or near the hot tub or pool • No alcohol, food, or glass near the hot tub and pool area • No diving, jumping, or horseplay • Do not sit or stand on the hot tub • Always replace the hot tub cover after use • The pool and hot tub contain water-sanitizing chemicals .Sensitive skin, eyes, or respiratory systems may experience mild irritation. If you have allergies, skin conditions, are pregnant, or have other health concerns, please consult a doctor before use.
⚠️ If the hot tub is left dirty (e.g., sand, lotion, or unwashed feet), a cleaning and maintenance fee may apply
⚠️ The guest left the hot tub in an excessively dirty condition, and regular cleaning was not enough to restore it. In cases like this, we must completely drain and refill the water, which requires significant extra labor and materials. Therefore, an additional fee of $500 will be charged.
🌊 Pool Heating • Please give us 24 hours’ notice ⏰ • Heating the pool is $250 per night • This fee simply covers the fuel cost we don’t profit from it ❤️
By booking this home, you agree that pool & hot tub use is at your own risk. The host is not liable for injuries, slips, or misuse.
🔒 Security Cameras
For safety and property protection: • East-facing camera monitors the hot tub and front deck • South-facing camera monitors the parking area and rabbit run • West-facing camera monitors the side entrance and BBQ patio area Hot tub & pool area • Camera mounted above the carousel horse sign, facing the hot tub and pool area
🔥 Firewood & Fire Pits • We do not provide firewood • You may bring firewood or purchase locally (grocery or gas station in town) • Do not use propane fire pits to make s’mores • Make sure all fire pits are turned off after use
🚽 Plumbing Rules
PLEASE DO NOT FLUSH anything other than toilet paper. This includes:
• Baby wipes or cleaning wipes (even “flushable” ones) • Feminine hygiene products • Paper towels or tissues
🎠 Do Not Touch • Please do not sit, climb, or lean on the merry-go-round VW horse art installation
🚫 No Parties or Events • Large gatherings and parties are strictly prohibited • Violating this rule will result in a $1,000 fine • Please respect our neighbors and community
📸 Unauthorized Filming • $5,000 fee for any unauthorized commercial photo or video shoot
🛠️ Damage & Loss • Guests will be charged market value to replace any missing, broken, or damaged items
🧹 Cleaning Fee
100% of your cleaning fee goes directly to our hardworking local cleaners. Your help in leaving the space tidy is always appreciated.
✅ Check-Out Checklist
Please complete the following before leaving: • ✅ Wash and put away any used kitchenware (dishes, utensils, cookware, etc.) back in their original place • ✅ Place all used towels in the laundry room basket • ✅ Take out all trash (kitchen, restrooms, and outside areas) — place in metal dumpster in parking area • ✅ Return all remotes to their original spots • ✅ Turn off oven, heater, A/C, ceiling fan, fireplace, and all lights (inside & outside) • ✅ Ensure all fire pits are off • ✅ Lock the sliding glass door and exit through the laundry room, then lock behind you • ✅ Shut all interior windows and cover them • ✅ Lock the hot tub cover • ✅ Close all blinds and shades • ✅ Close and secure any umbrellas
⏰ Late check-out beyond the 15-minute grace period will incur a $100 fee
We deeply appreciate your cooperation and care. Treating our home with respect helps keep The Black Cactus beautiful for all guests — including when you return in the future. 💛
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Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
$100 fee per pet
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
We ask that you please wash and put away any dishes you use during your stay.
Close all blinds and window shades. Close any open umbrellas and fasten them closed.
Please lock sliding glass door and exit through laundry room and lock. Shut all inside windows and cover
Lock hot tub cover
All used towels to be placed in laundry room basket
Return all remotes to same spot. Turn off oven, heater, ac, ceiling fan, fireplace, lights inside and out. Make sure all fire pits are off.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
PLEASE DO NOT FLUSH ANYTHING
OTHER THAN TOILET PAPER. (No wipes of any kind, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, etc.)
Keep doors closed at all times. Open doors invite bugs, mice and other desert critters in
PLEASE DO NOT Make s’more’s with propane fire pits
PLEASE DO NOT SIT OR STAND ON THE HOT TUB COVER
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number CESTRP-2024-00940
Property # 4319185vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Joshua Tree
Located in Hidden River, a neighbourhood in Joshua Tree, this holiday home is in a rural area. Noah Purifoy Foundation and Noah Purifoy's Outdoor sculpture Museum are cultural highlights, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Joshua Tree Certified Farmers' Market and Pioneertown. Hi-Desert Cultural Center and Hi-Desert Nature Museum are also worth visiting. Break out the clubs and hit the links on a nearby golf course, or seek out an adventure with mountain climbing, rock climbing and hiking/biking trails.
Joshua Tree Community Center - 6 min drive - 5.6 km
Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center - 7 min drive - 6.0 km
World Famous Crochet Museum - 7 min drive - 6.0 km
Joshua Tree Certified Farmers' Market - 7 min drive - 6.0 km
Getting around
Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) - 68 min drive
Restaurants
Starbucks - 17 min drive
McDonald's - 17 min drive
Circle K - 18 min drive
Jack in the Box - 16 min drive
Sonic Drive-In - 16 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does Magical Vibes on 5 Acres with panoramic views. have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Heated lazy river pool, rooftop deck?
As of 3 July 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Heated lazy river pool, rooftop deck on 6 July 2026 start from AU$1,054, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Magical Vibes on 5 Acres with panoramic views. pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.
How much is parking at Magical Vibes on 5 Acres with panoramic views.?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Magical Vibes on 5 Acres with panoramic views.?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Magical Vibes on 5 Acres with panoramic views.?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Magical Vibes on 5 Acres with panoramic views. located?
Located in Hidden River, this holiday home is 3.1 mi (5 km) from Joshua Tree Community Center and within 6 miles (10 km) of Noah Purifoy Foundation and Noah Purifoy's Outdoor sculpture Museum. World Famous Crochet Museum and Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
It is a nice place, with fun decor, and the little lazy river pool was great. The amenities were very nice, and everything thing worked, excepting the roof patio umbrella, which we knew ahead of time that it was not working. It would have been better to take it away rather than leave it in place broken as it was, as it was very noisy with the wind whipping it around. The record player and 80s LPs was a real treat. The master bedroom and bath are very nicely appointed. The host clearly has given a lot of attention to esthetics, comfort and convenience. We really enjoyed our stay and saw a magnificent view of the Milky Way, only 1/2 hour drive into the park.
Lawrence A.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 June 2026
Thank you for the feedback. As noted prior to your arrival, the umbrella had been damaged by high winds. Unfortunately, due to its size and weight, we were not able to remove it immediately before your stay. We appreciate your understanding and are glad you enjoyed the property overall.
This house and property were amazing, better than the photos showed. Every detail was well thought out, interesting and unique. All amenities were easy to use, comfortable, private and serene. The house was well located for the park, town and jaunts to various attractions. The lazy pool was very fun and we spent hours enjoying the pool area overlooking the mountains.Upstairs deck was a huge added benefit for me as I love to star gaze and this house offered it up on a silver platter. The night sky was so clear and very dark. I was able to capture the Big Dipper from just my phone camera.This is an amazing property and I highly recommend it to everyone. I am hoping to bring my daughters back to this wonderful spot!
We had an amazing stay here! The property was clean and welcoming. We stayed here with our 4 kids and they had a blast. The views were incredible and the property was comfortable. The host was great too! Would highly recommend this place to family and friends!
Brent F.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Dec 2025
Thank you for staying with us! I’m so happy to hear your family enjoyed the home and the views. You’re welcome back anytime!
We took our 3 kids (13, 10, and 8) on a holiday trip and this part of our trip was the best. Host was amazingly responsive, kids loved the lazy river, and my wife and I enjoyed the hot tub under the stars. Not to mention the view was 10/10 and super close to downtown with shops and JT national park. Highly recommend!!
Brad P.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Dec 2025
Thank you for staying at the Black Cactus. You and your family are always welcome to return
The place isn’t huge but laid out really well. Loved the showers, both were great. Towels and linens were good quality. Saw coyotes and big old jack rabbits off the rooftop deck. Easy drive to restaurants and the parks west entrance but close enough to do a day into Palm Springs. Most impressive were fire pits everywhere. On the roof. By the hot tub. By the pool. Noting like star gazing with a fire while sitting on the roof in a comfortable bean bag chair!!!
Such a beautiful and fun western home! Our stay was perfect. We used the hot tub and enjoyed watching movies in the living room. The heater was a little louder than expected but it sure did heat the place quickly! We hope to revisit in the spring or summer to utilize the pool.
We loved the vibe of the Black Cactus. The place has been intentionally curated for a chill vacation experience, complete with quirky details and a thoughtful, irreverent aesthetic. The interior is dark, clean and cozy, which contrasts perfectly to the raw, desert landscape. It also smelled quite pleasant inside. We appreciated the record selection (someone clearly has quality taste in music, must be Gen X). The sunrise, sunset and mountain views probably justify the stay alone. But the added features really define the place; the roofdeck with those plush chairs, the hot tub, multiple fire pits and retro landscape art. The crown jewel is the lazy river pool. After experiencing it, one is left to ponder why anyone would waste their time building any other type of pool. Thanks for sharing your cool place with our family. It made for a memorable vacation in Joshua Tree!
We had such an incredible stay at this Joshua Tree Vrbo. The property itself is truly special—wide open spaces, thoughtfully designed, and full of unique touches that make it feel both elevated and relaxing at the same time.The outdoor setup is a dream. Between the hot tub, heated pool, and multiple conversation areas, there’s always the perfect spot to unwind—whether you’re watching the sunset, stargazing, or just enjoying a quiet morning coffee.Inside, the design is just as impressive. Every room feels intentional, stylish, and comfortable without trying too hard. It’s one of those places where you instantly feel at ease.Location-wise, it couldn’t be better—close enough to town for convenience, but still peaceful and private. And just a short drive to Joshua Tree National Park, which made exploring super easy.We’d absolutely stay here again. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a beautiful, relaxing desert escape.
This desert retreat is a true gem! The furnishings and decor are just beautiful, with a playful western theme throughout the home. The spacious rooftop deck with cozy seating and a fire pit was fantastic for star gazing! It was a little too cool in January for the pool, but we loved the hot tub and the nearby hiking trails. Great communication with the host, who was friendly and easy to reach. Our group has vacationed in many lovely desert properties throughout the years, but this is hands down our favorite! Do not miss out on this desert delight!
Every thing was just right . Fun decor, hot tub worked well. Even did a polar plunge in the pool. Sun rise and sunset from the roof top patio was awesome. Kitchen had all we needed plus some. The park also exceeded expectation.
Unbelievably cool - rooftop stargazing- firepits- ample seating everywhere in and out. The decor is cowboy modern in an artistic way. Plenty of kitchenware - and vinyl! Listened to ZZ Top while cooking - as a Texan, this was a big bonus. Rooms were comfortable and plenty of blankets. The hosts were very attentive. Would absolutely stay here again! Joshua Tree Park close and stunning :):) Can’t wait to come back!!
Catherine B.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Apr 2025
Lovely guests. They were very respectful of our home and property. Happy to have them stay again anytime.
Our family of 2 adults and 2 kids had a wonderful stay at the Black Cactus during our spring break trip to Joshua Tree. The house is off of a dirt road just 5 minutes from town. The home is immaculately furnished and filled with fun and quirky artwork throughout the property. Everything we needed for a few days away was provided at the house - soap, detergent, shampoo/conditioner, plush towels, fully stocked kitchen, basic condiments, and Nespresso machine with pods. The evenings were peaceful and we enjoyed stargazing from the roof deck and well-maintained hot tub. We really appreciated all the special touches in this home and would recommend this property to anyone looking for a fun and unique stay in the Mojave Desert.
Verified traveller
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Apr 2025
Thank you for your kind words. We truly love it when guests enjoy the many personal touches we’ve incorporated into the property! Stay again soon.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Birgitta
6 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Our stay at Black Cactus was the best VRBO experience. The location was wonderful, peaceful, quiet and serene and just a short 10 minute drive to the local market and Joshua Tree visitor center. We choose to have both breakfast and dinners at the house since there can’t be a more beautiful place then this home to eat in town. To sit up on the deck and enjoy breakfast and a cup of coffee or have dinner around the fire pit, what could be better. There is also a barbecue which we never used but had we stayed for the week I’m sure we would have done some cooking on it. We loved taking a hot tub after a long day of hiking. The hot tub was super clean just like the rest of the house. We also really appreciated that they used Meyer’s sustainable cleaning products, they even provided Meyer’s laundry soap. They even had it down to sustainable toilet paper. The beds are super comfortable and the view from all three bedrooms is unbelievable. To watch the sunrise from the Master bedroom is the most incredible way to wake up. The kitchen had everything we needed. There was even a brand new Nespresso machine and there was plenty of spices and some condiments, all fresh.
All the sheets, towels, soap, shampoo, conditioner etc were of high quality.
Jin and Jerry are the best hosts you can imagine. They were always available if we had any questions and very kind and thoughtful. We are looking forward come back to Joshua tree in the near future for another rejuvenating stay at Black Cactus.
🌍
Birgitta
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
About the host
Hosted by Jerry Mckinish
I’m a California native Gen x’er. Tattooed father of 3 healthy young adults and 2 grand kids under 10. My korean wife and I love to travel and dine out. You’ll catch me in the hot tub in slow season.
Why they chose this property
This 5 acre property rests in Joshua Cove foothills with breath taking views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Upon our first encounter with this unimproved piece of raw land, we decided we would build our home here to share the beauty with others.
What makes this property unique
The quietness, stillness and calmness of the land encourages your stresses of daily life to disappear. You don’t hear any cars or sirens or people. You can literally hear the rabbits rustling, the coyotes howling and breeze humming.
Languages:
English, Korean
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests