Some of the most exciting photo ops in Joshua Tree present themselves at night when the park comes alive, and the sky provides a spooky backdrop for the gnarly trees.

I've lived near California's Joshua Tree National Park for almost 20 years. As a local who visits the park often, I've seen many travelers make the same common mistakes.

Joshua Tree National Park spokesman George Land says there are several good viewing areas that are not closed off at night, such as Cap Rock, Boy Scout Trail parking area and Hemingway parking area.