The weather is so balmy and people are in such a mood to head outdoors that Joshua Tree National Park is overwhelmed with crowds.

And officials are actually trying to discourage people from visiting the popular high desert park near Palm Springs this weekend — or to come early and plan ahead, if they do.

Those who insist on coming should brace themselves for an experience unlike what they are probably expecting, George Land, a park spokesman, said by phone Friday morning, Dec. 29.

“When it is every bit as crowded as the Santa Monica Freeway at rush hour, that kind of takes away from the whole wilderness park experience,” Land said.

How bad could it be?

Consider this, Land said.

“We’ve had over-mile-long backups at the entrance station, trying to get into the park.”

He was talking about the west entrance at Joshua Tree Village, the place to which many GPS systems steer motorists.

He recommends entering through the north entrance at Twentynine Palms or the Cottonwood entrance off the 10 Freeway.

“You’ll spend a lot less time getting into the park,” Land said.

Once in, don’t expect smooth sailing. Land said there is a “solid stream” of cars on many roads.

And forget about camping.

“The campgrounds have been full since before Christmas,” Land said.

With that in mind, national park officials recommend:

Meeting friends and family outside the park and carpooling in. That saves time and money, as park entry fees cover everyone in the vehicle.

Arriving at the park before 8 a.m.

Using an alternate entrance.

Visiting other natural attractions such as Death Valley National Park and Mojave National Preserve.

Camping at private campgrounds outside the park. Officials said the Bureau of Land Management offers free dispersed camping to the north and south.

Bringing plenty of drinking water.

The park is on pace to set another visitation record for 2017, eclipsing the mark of 2.6 million visitors set last year, Land said.

“We love to see people coming out to the park,” said Land, who added that with the conditions this weekend, “We’d rather people not show up and be disappointed — and never come back.”

Information: https://NPS.gov/JoshuaTree/PlanYourVisit