🌵 Escape to a 5-acre desert oasis in Joshua Tree! Explore scenic trails, spark a cozy campfire, and soak in the hot tub under starry skies. From the private roof deck, enjoy 360° views and capture aesthetic, photo-worthy moments. Wake up to a breathtaking sunrise and end with a romantic sunset. ✨ The unique Lazy River opens Oct 1—book now before prices increase!
🏡 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
🐾 Pets
• Dogs are welcome!
• $100 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
⚠️ Excessive dirtiness may result in an additional cleaning fee.
🌊 Pool Heating
• Please give us 24 hours’ notice ⏰
• Heating the pool is $175 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
🔥 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
🎶 Noise, Music & Party Policy
• Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
• Loud music, parties, or excessive noise that may disturb neighbors is strictly prohibited at all times.
• No parties or events are allowed on the property.
• Music may be played outdoors but must be kept at a respectful volume and never disturb neighbors.
• Please note that any violation of our house rules, including noise complaints from neighbors, may result in immediate termination of your stay with no refund
📸 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 dishes used
• ✅ 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
💛 Thank You
We deeply appreciate your cooperation and care. Treating our home with respect helps keep The Black Cactus beautiful for all guests — including your return stays!