Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
4.4448 reviews19952 State Park Rd, Palomar Mountain, CA 92060
Palomar Mountain State Park Campground
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$130.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard campsites cost $40 per night. Seniors (age 62+) pay $38 per night, while Disabled Discount Pass holders pay $20 per night. An extra vehicle fee is $10. Group campsites are $130 per night and include parking for varying numbers of vehicles.
About this campground
Escape to Doane Valley Campground, where 31 thoughtfully designed sites await beneath a canopy of towering conifers in Palomar Mountain State Park. This family-friendly mountain retreat welcomes both tent campers and trailer enthusiasts to experience the magic of camping among ancient forests and wildflower meadows. Each site serves as your personal basecamp, complete with a sturdy table for evening card games, a crackling fire ring for s'mores and stories, a barbecue for grilling fresh catches, and a secure food locker to keep your provisions safe from curious wildlife.
Palomar Mountain State Park Campground provides a variety of camping options, including family campsites and group sites. The environment is ideal for tent camping and small RV setups.
Historical SignificanceCamp on ancestral Luiseño lands, where centuries of indigenous stewardship shaped these mountain ecosystems. Discover layers of history along the legendary Nate Harrison Grade Road, once traveled by one of the region's first African American homesteaders. Throughout the park, weathered foundations and forgotten orchards whisper stories of early settlers who tried to tame this rugged landscape, leaving behind intriguing remnants of their mountain dreams.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons in this mountain paradise, where summer days warm to a comfortable 80°F, perfect for hiking and exploring without the scorching heat of the valleys below. Winter transforms the landscape into a potential wonderland, with occasional snowfall and crisp temperatures that can dip below 30°F, creating cozy nights around the campfire. Spring awakens the meadows with wildflowers and gentle breezes, while autumn paints the deciduous trees in golden hues against the evergreen backdrop.
ElevationPerched at a refreshing 5,000 feet above sea level, Doane Valley offers a natural air conditioning system that delivers cool, pine-scented evenings even when summer heat grips the lowlands. This mile-high sanctuary provides the perfect escape, where afternoon clouds drift through camp and nighttime temperatures invite you to zip up your sleeping bag and drift off to the symphony of mountain sounds.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into Southern California's best-kept secret—a landscape that transports you to the Sierra Nevada without the long drive north. Majestic pines, firs, and cedars create a living cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Mountain meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers, while nearby Doane Pond reflects the sky and offers anglers the chance to cast for stocked trout in its peaceful waters.
Geological RegionDiscover an unexpected alpine oasis crowning Palomar Mountain in northern San Diego County, where ancient geological forces lifted this 5,000-foot sky island above the surrounding desert and chaparral. This remarkable elevation creates a unique microclimate supporting lush coniferous forests more commonly found hundreds of miles north, offering visitors a rare glimpse of Sierra Nevada-style landscapes just an hour from the coast.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include designated accessible campsites with firm pad surfaces, accessible tables, and accessible restrooms. Some areas, such as shower controls, may require assistance.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate small to medium setups; some sites are described as being on slopes, so visitors are advised to check site dimensions and layouts.
Sites PrivacySites offer moderate privacy with natural foliage providing separation; however, noise from neighbors can be an issue, as mentioned in user reviews.
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with flat terrain for tents if possible; some campsites are sloped.
Best CampsitesSites 8, 9, 16, 26, 29, and 30 are highly recommended.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping stay limit of 30 days per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group campsites accommodate 15-25 people and allow trailers up to 21 feet in length. Sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to potable water.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground layout includes 31 individual sites and three group campsites. Sites are nestled among trees, providing shade and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonReservations open from April 1 to November 30. First-come, first-serve camping available from December 1 to March 31.
Reservation PlatformsReserve California website and hotline (800-444-7275).
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable from December 1 to March 31. First-come, first-serve sites may fill quickly during weekends or holidays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through Reserve California. Specific deadlines and penalties vary based on the reservation date.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Palomar Mountain State Park offers a range of activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and historical exploration. The park's unique elevation provides panoramic views and diverse ecosystems, enhancing recreational opportunities.
Hiking
The park features multiple hiking trails, such as the Doane Valley Nature Trail, Boucher Trail, and Cedar Trail. Trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views of forests, meadows, and historical sites like Scott's Cabin. "Stopping by the fire lookout tower is a must," according to user reviews.Fishing
Fishing is available year-round at Doane Pond, primarily for trout. Anglers over 16 require a California fishing license. The pond is stocked by the Department of Fish and Game, but native trout populations in nearby creeks are protected.Wildlife viewing
The park is a haven for birders, featuring species such as western bluebirds and red-shouldered hawks. Sightings of gray foxes, coyotes, and southern mule deer are common. One user described observing wild turkeys during their visit.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs and Junior Ranger activities are offered seasonally, focusing on local wildlife and ecosystems.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes snow play and scenic drives through snow-covered landscapes, as mentioned in user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires permitted only in designated fire rings; portable stoves allowed in specific areas.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBeware of poison oak, ticks, and abundant flying insects (flies, gnats, mosquitoes).
Active alertsCurrent firewood restrictions prohibit bringing oak firewood due to pest threats. Firewood available for purchase.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include hospitals in Escondido (~33 miles away), police stations, and ranger stations located within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to November 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, encouraging visitors to keep the park clean and protect wildlife by securely storing food and waste.
Proximity to water featuresDoane Pond, located nearby, offers trout fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsVisitors have noted issues with flying pests, poison oak, and noise from inconsiderate campers. Some reviews mention poorly marked trails.
HostCamp hosts are not consistently visible but wood sales may be available at their site.
Campground Map
19952 State Park Rd, Palomar Mountain, CA 92060
Driving directionsFrom Highway 76, either of two roads can be used to reach the park. The one from Rincon Springs (County Road S6) is scenic but rather steep and winding. County Road S7 from Lake Henshaw is longer, but its gentle grade makes it more suitable for heavily loaded vehicles and those pulling trailers.
Road access quality varies between County Road S6, which is steep and winding, and County Road S7, which has a gentler grade and is more suitable for trailers. Neither route has gas stations along the mountain path.Nearby places
Escondido (33 miles, ~1 hour), San Diego (~75 miles, ~1.5 hours), Oceanside (approximately 60 miles, ~1.2 hours).
Nearby supplies
No gas stations on Palomar Mountain
limited supplies available at Palomar Mountain General Store (~2 miles from the park entrance). Larger grocery stores and fuel stations in Escondido (~33 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.4
48 reviews
Palomar Mountain State Park Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's serene environment, well-maintained facilities, and diverse activities. Some complain about bugs and lack of cell service, while others enjoy the escape from digital communication.
Review Summaries
Based on 48 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the clean restrooms, scenic views, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife observation. Many users emphasize the freshness of the mountain air and cooler temperatures.
Based on 48 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the prevalence of bugs (flies, mosquitoes, ticks), poorly marked trails, and occasional noisy neighbors. Sites are described as small, with some situated on slopes.
Based on 48 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest arriving early for parking, bringing bug spray, and purchasing firewood on-site. Glasses or head nets are recommended to deter flies. Hiking boots and printed maps are also advised.
Based on 48 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is favored for its manageable temperatures and lush vegetation, while winter attracts visitors for snow-covered landscapes. Spring and fall offer moderate weather and fewer crowds.
Based on 48 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The wildlife, both plant and animal, is enough to refresh and recharge you after a long week," noted Morgan Twiddy. "Stopping by the fire lookout tower is a must," echoed Frank Grippo in his review.
Based on 48 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 8, 9, 16, 26, 29, and 30 are considered the best by user reviews due to their spaciousness and scenic locations.
Based on 48 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features include designated campsites and restrooms, although some elements like shower controls may require assistance.
Based on 48 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted in the campground but must be leashed and confined to tents or vehicles at night. Dogs are prohibited on hiking trails to protect wildlife.
Based on 48 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025