Mt. Palomar North Side Area

Stargazers will find excellent dark sky conditions at Mt. Palomar North Side Area, a walk-in campground managed by the Forest Service in Cleveland National Forest. The campground provides picnic tables and allows alcohol, though pets are not permitted on the property.

Campers must carry their gear from parking areas to reach individual sites scattered through the forested terrain. Cell service remains available despite the mountain location. Winter T. noted the bright nighttime stars and forest setting that creates an immersive outdoor experience. For additional options, explore campgrounds near Aguanga about five miles northeast, or consider Dripping Springs Campground three miles northwest for drive-up access.

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Map & DirectionsMt. Palomar North Side Area is located in California near Cleveland National Forest

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

33.42510064 N
116.93910028 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol

Drive Time


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Reviews1 Camper Review - Mt. Palomar North Side Area

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1 Review

Reviewed Apr. 13, 2026

Gorgeous but Cold at night

The stars are beautiful and bright at night and during the day the forest makes you feel like you’re in a dream come true

Site6
Month of VisitApril
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  • Review photo of Mt. Palomar North Side Area by Winter T., April 13, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Mt. Palomar North Side Area have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Mt. Palomar North Side Area does not have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at Mt. Palomar North Side Area?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is good coverage for AT&T, excellent coverage for T-Mobile, and no coverage for Verizon.