Desert Institute at JTNPA Announces Desert Voices: A Day of Writing and Storytelling in Joshua Tree

 

Desert Institute at JTNPA Announces Desert Voices:  
A Day of Writing and Storytelling in Joshua Tree 

Twentynine Palms, CA, March 19, 2026 – Desert Institute, the educational branch of Joshua Tree National 
Park Association (JTNPA), will host Desert Voices: A Writers Gathering. This day-long gathering is for 
writers, thinkers, and storytellers, on Saturday, April 18, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at High Desert Test 
Sites in Joshua Tree, CA. 

Through prose and poetry workshops, readings, and panel conversations, the event explores how the 
landscapes of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts shape the stories we tell. No writing experience is required, 
and participants ages 10 and up are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a notebook and a pen. 

Featured speakers include Obi Kaufmann, naturalist, illustrator, and author of the California Field Atlas 
series; Josh Jackson, writer, photographer, and founder of the Forgotten Lands Project, whose work 
explores America's public lands; Chris Clarke, Executive Director of the Desert Advocacy Media Network 
and host of the podcast 90 Miles from Needles; Ruth Nolan, poet and Associate Professor of English at 
College of the Desert; Thomas Crochetiere, Interpretation and Visitor Service Representative with the 
National Park Service at Joshua Tree National Park; and Patrick Zuchowicki, owner of Desert General and 
organizer of the annual Twentynine Palms Book Festival. Lisa Lynn Morgan, Public Relations Officer for 
JTNPA and publisher of Joshua Tree Voice, will serve as moderator. 

Desert Voices will be held at High Desert Test Sites, 62953 Sullivan Road, Joshua Tree. Please note the 
venue is not ADA accessible. No park pass is required. 

Tickets are $25 per person and are available at tinyurl.com/DItickets. Follow Joshua Tree National Park 
Association on social media for updates. 

 

 ######