Hotel Reset prototype. 9 secluded acres.Art Gallery.Dark Skies.Hot tub. Aliens.

The Portal at Joshua Tree isn’t your typical container home and unlike any other vacation property. It’s the perfect stay for the modern nomad, whether you’re stopping through on a California road trip, working remotely or on a romantic weekend away, you’re not going to want to leave. It’s 5 star luxury that melds seamlessly into its rugged high desert landscape.
The Portal has been featured in articles about architecture, design and DIY because of its famous architect/builder, Ben Uyeda. In Spring of 2025 Ben opened up the first hotel in the High Desert in 15 years and The Portal is where it all began. You can see this container build on his world famous YouTube channel “Home Made Modern.”

This secluded cluster of fully built out shipping containers sits perched up on its own little mini hill with amazing hikes leading up to your personal magical hilltop overlooking much of Joshua Tree, including the National Park. Each container, with carefully curated colors and textures boasts endless views of the high desert. It also has all new and top of the line Mitsubishi mini split AC/ heating, Haier stainless steel refrigerator, stove and microwave and a brand new tankless water heater. The bedrooms and bathrooms in separate containers offer couples or groups of friends complete privacy.

The Portal is perfect for guests who relish a truly indoor/outdoor experience and appreciate modern design. The large glass panel doors open completely, bringing almost 9 acres to play, work, create or simply relax by the fire pit directly to your doorstep. The outdoor area has ample seating areas, a new propane BBQ and prep space as well as one of the coolest ping pong tables around. Have a drink and soak up the sun in the cowboy tubs - there’s 2 6’ tubs so there’s plenty of room for everyone. Soak up the moonlight next to the propane fire pit, super easy to shut on and off. The Jacuzzi J335 hot tub is the perfect way to melt the stress away, and perfect for stargazing.
**Please do note that the cowboy tubs will be closed October- March but depends on weather and drought status.

Stay up late or book during the New Moon for the best views of the endless blanket of stars above.

Although The Portal is isolated, downtown Joshua Tree is a mere 15 minutes away and the West Park Entrance is only 30 minutes away.


Because our house doesn’t really fit into all the boxes on here, below is a better description of the property. It consists of 3 containers in a little cluster over 8 acres.

Container 1 “The Studio”: sleeps 2, has a full bathroom, full kitchen, dining room/living room. It’s the center of the action.

Container 2 “The Guest House”sleeps 2 and has full bathroom including a bathtub. Views are amazing. Has a back door so guests in that space can come and go without disturbing anyone.

Container 3 “The Gallery” couch, refrigerator/freezer. 55" LG Smart TV with Prime , Hulu, Netflix ready to go. Bring your Fire Stick or sign into your other favorites. Large dog crate, wardrobe area, all framed photography for sale. Take it home with you or we can ship it for an extra fee.

The Portal sits on nearly 9 acres of ruggedly beuautiful desert landscape to explore including our very own trail up to the hilltop where you can see views of the park. We have provided multiple seating arrangements to enjoy the outdoors to eat, chill, and stargaze.

Other things to note
Dogs:
We love them! Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes and coyotes though!
Do not leave them at the property unattended outside of the crate but also please don't take them out with you in excessive temperatures. Note that there are very few places in the park that dogs are allowed.

As us about:
Reiki
Private Sound bath
Personal tarot readings and tarot parties
Personal photo shoots/portrait sessions in the park or on the property