Investing in short-term rentals (STRs) near national parks can be a lucrative opportunity for investors looking to capitalize on the steady stream of tourists seeking outdoor adventures and natural beauty. These markets not only offer strong investment potential but also provide unique experiences for visitors, from stunning landscapes to rich cultural heritage.
Our latest tool, Chalet Intel, provides comprehensive insights and strategies tailored to investors at all experience levels. This tool includes information on rental regulations, a vacation rental calculator, and a sophisticated Deal Analyzer (Airbnb ROI calculator). Links will be provided for each market, allowing you to conduct a more detailed analysis on your own.

1. Coachella, California
Coachella, CA, known for its annual music festival, is also a gateway to Joshua Tree National Park, attracting a large number of tourists throughout the year.
Coachella has seen a 4.10% increase in home values, with the average price now at $412,875. This market thrives with an ADR of $462.00 and an occupancy rate of 51%, translating to an annual revenue of $74,207 from 433 active rentals. The gross yield here is 14.98%, with a cap rate of 8.99%.
Check out our Coachella Airbnb Investor Guide for a deeper dive into our analysis of this short-term rental market or visit Coachella Rental Regulations to explore the Airbnb laws and regulations.
2. Joshua Tree, California
Joshua Tree, CA, is renowned for its namesake national park, featuring unique desert landscapes and rock formations that draw outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Joshua Tree has seen a notable decrease in home values by -10.20%, with the average price at $385,941. The market shows promise with an ADR of $189.00 and an occupancy rate of 55%, generating annual revenues of $43,880 from 1,362 active rentals. The gross yield stands at 9.47%, with a cap rate of 5.68%.
Discover more about investing in Joshua Tree through Chalet Intel. It includes a vacation rental calculator, regulation overview, a Deal Analyzer (Airbnb ROI calculator), and much more.
3. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs, CA, known for its mid-century modern architecture and luxury resorts, is also a popular base for exploring nearby national parks like Joshua Tree.
Palm Springs has seen a slight decrease in home values by -0.70%, with the average price at $655,035. The market thrives with an ADR of $383.00 and an occupancy rate of 57%, leading to an annual revenue of $71,364 from 4,348 active rentals. The gross yield here is 9.08%, with a cap rate of 5.45%.
For more insights into Palm Springs as a rental market, explore Chalet Intel. Our platform provides detailed data, investment guidance, a vacation rental calculator, and an Airbnb fee calculator.