Located in the Los Padres National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,000-8,800 feet, camping near Frazier Park offers cooler summer temperatures than surrounding areas. Temperatures often drop below freezing after sunset during fall and winter months, with nighttime temperatures sometimes reaching the 20s even in late September. The area sits at the convergence of several ecosystems, creating diverse wildlife habitats.
What to do
Mountain hiking trails: Mt. Pinos Campground provides access to extensive hiking networks with rewarding views. "A great hike up the road from the campground entrance. I guess it's about a 4.8 mi hike to the top. We didn't go all the way but the part we did was very nice, gorgeous views and a well kept trail," notes a camper at Chuchupate Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The high elevation and minimal light pollution make this area ideal for astronomy. "Great hiking trails thanks to all the cross country skiing trails... Ranger said he has written 100 tickets this summer for people having campfires when it's posted no campfires," mentions a visitor to Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos. Astronomy groups frequently set up telescopes and welcome visitors.
Off-road vehicle recreation: For motorized adventure, dedicated recreation areas offer maintained trails. "This place is nice because it's huge! Many different camp areas with bathrooms and overhangs for shade, no hook ups for RV's though. If you have dirt bike's or quads bring them with because the riding is great," shares a visitor at Hungry Valley State Vehicle Recreation Area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites. "The group site is perfect and can easily fit 12-15 families/tents. Good parking area with toilets across the road," writes a camper at McGill Campground And Group Campground, adding that "The 1/4 hiking trail around the site is perfect for kids exercising some independence."
Mountain views: Campsites situated on higher elevations provide scenic vistas. One camper at Campo Alto Campground describes it as "a great campground if you truly want to get away. This campground doesn't have much to offer in the sense of amenities but if you're looking for peace, quiet and few people then this is the spot."
Night sky visibility: The remote location minimizes light pollution. "This is a convenient and fun escape from the city. Just above Fraizer Park you can find mountaintop hiking and sledding depending on the time of year," writes a reviewer about McGill Campground. Another notes the "gorgeous view of the sunrise through the trees" at their site.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Check current regulations before planning campfires. "Beautiful tree lined area that doesn't get too hot in the summer. That said, late sept it can get below freezing. There are also often fire restrictions in place so keep up to date on the latest," advises a McGill Campground visitor.
Limited water availability: Most campgrounds lack running water. A camper at Cherry Creek Campground states, "If you have 4WD and a strong stomach, you can squeeze all the way up the mountain to a beautiful campsite at the end of the trail at the top of the mountain."
Insect presence: Flies and bees can be prevalent during warmer months. "There's a large fly & bee population... the bees swarmed our dogs water & our hand water station. Leaving any uncovered water out for more than 2 minutes meant it was full of drowning bees," warns a Campo Alto camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra layers: Temperature fluctuations require appropriate clothing. "This is at 8,000 feet so you can see a long way and have a great view of the stars at night. I gave it three stars because there was no water except for one spigot that needed a water key," notes a visitor to Mt. Pinos Campground.
Group site options: Several campgrounds offer dedicated group camping areas. "We discovered this campground with friends who booked a group camping weekend. We have now been back yearly for that trip and our son's birthday," shares a McGill Campground visitor.
Wildlife awareness: Animals are active in the area, particularly at dawn and dusk. "Night time was also great, clear skies, bright moon and stars, and neon glow of the lights of the off road vehicles... Nice morning wake up call from coyotes," reports a camper at Hungry Valley State Vehicle Recreation Area.
Tips for RVers
Campground access limitations: Some campgrounds have narrow roads and limited turnaround space. "Beautiful campground in a secluded mountain area, if only I could fit into it! I reserved a spot based on the site saying it would accommodate 40', then noticed the campground as a whole recommended 22' max... Amazing spot for vans or tents but anything bigger, check out McGill campground right up the road," advises an RVer about Mt. Pinos.
Leveling challenges: Many sites feature uneven terrain. "Campo Alto is a small campground with 17 individual and 2 group sites with an 8 mile 2 lane route from the main road up to flat mountain top. Roads entirely paved with mostly gravel unlevel parking near sites," shares a visitor to Los Alamos Campground at Pyramid Lake.
Limited hookups: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Frazier Park offer dry camping only. "Campground has three separate site loops with about 90 Dry Camp camp locations. Water spigots are available in some areas, but not for permanent hookup," notes a Los Alamos Campground visitor.
