Palomar Mountain camping areas range from 4,000 to 6,000 feet elevation, creating distinct microclimates across campgrounds. The mountain's mixed conifer and oak forests form natural sound barriers between many campsites, helping reduce noise even during peak season. Weather patterns shift dramatically from summer to winter, with temperatures dropping an average of 15-20 degrees compared to surrounding valleys.
What to do
Stargazing at night sky events: Observatory Campground holds regular amateur astronomy gatherings during summer months. "The sites are far enough away from each other that we weren't bothered by neighbors. We had trees for shade and most of our site wasn't visible from the street. This site is right off the 76 highway and you can hear it all night, so it doesn't feel like a true escape," notes Cassandra F. about nearby Oak Grove Campground.
Fishing in stocked waters: Lake Henshaw offers catch-and-release fishing with unusually high success rates. "What sold us was the lake, it's not clean at all but we caught a TON of fish. Every time we put our line in we got a fish it's crazy. You do have to pay an $8 fee to fish which is across the street from the campground," explains Amanda B. from Lake Henshaw Resort.
Hiking diverse terrain: Trails connect multiple campgrounds with varied difficulty levels. "There is a hike off of the campground. We took off at 7am to try and beat the heat since we were with our dogs and we wanted to get some exercise with them while it was still cool. Their advice: bring lots of water, and snack for the top, and good shoes," shares Brittany H. about Observatory Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer natural separation. "The sites are really cool and private, lots of tall trees and shade. Only downside was the bugs. There were a lot of flies, but we went in July so go figure," comments Justin B. about La Jolla Indian Campground.
Seasonal water features: Several campgrounds offer creek access when water levels permit. "We stayed here because we wanted to do the zipline and they offered a discount to campers. California is in a drought so the water was very shallow and we couldn't tube in it as planned," notes Katie O. at La Jolla Indian Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campgrounds host diverse bird species and animals. "We absolutely loved Fry Creek. It might be our favorite place to camp so far. This campground is definitely a birder's paradise. We were constantly surrounded and graced by the sounds of woodpeckers, pigeons, mountain quail, bluebirds, jays, and more," writes Elise F. from Fry Creek Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Bugs vary dramatically by season and location. "Nice quiet campground. By quiet I mean not a lot of human noise, but the birds! So many talkative and beautiful birds to enjoy. The only issue we had was the BUGS. Definitely prepare for mosquitos and other bloodsuckers while you are here," warns Megan from Fry Creek Campground.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely between campgrounds. "We never used the public bathrooms, so can't speak to that, but free dump site was great. There were a TON of wasps everywhere, so be aware especially if you bring food outside," cautions Melanie M. about La Jolla Indian Campground.
Water availability fluctuations: Creeks and water features depend on seasonal rainfall. "The campsite is situated right next to San Luis Rey River. Any riverside camping in San Diego is very rare. The River was small, but the sounds were nice. Weather was great," shares Branden about Palomar Mountain State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Reservation timing: Peak weekends require planning months ahead. "We chose Palomar Mountain for our first camping trip, first it was close to home, about 2 1/2 hours away and if something went wrong. Thanks to this app we were able to research so many possibilities. This camp site was awesome (#18) all except the bugs, which was manageable with sage smug sticks we brought from home," advises Teeum H. at Palomar Mountain State Park Campground.
Site selection for kid-friendly features: Some sites offer natural play areas. "This park is great for all Southern California natives to get away for the weekend. Has clean facilities and the campgrounds have ample space between them. This area has a ton of beautiful landscape, during the fall/winter wonderful foliage appears," notes Javier L. from Palomar Mountain State Park Campground.
Day trip options: Several attractions within 30-minute drive. "It is a short drive to Palomar Mountain for some nice hiking or Julian isn't far away for shopping and pie," suggests Shannon F. from Lake Henshaw Resort.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Many sites restrict vehicle access. "Some of the campsites require you to park either below or above the actual campsite and walk a short distance. This isn't a problem if you are tent camping but if you have a rooftop etc it can limit you to the RV spots," advises Mike H. about Palomar Mountain State Park Campground.
Hook-up availability: Electric and water connections vary by campground. "We moved up to Chardonnay Bluff and were able to work with no issues. There is a huge difference in how much love KOA puts into each section. The top (Chardonnay Bluff) is beautiful with green grass and lovely well cared for trees, and full hookups," shares James from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA.
Dump station access: Limited facilities require planning. "Last minute booking... we got a site with no electricity just water and sewer. Got a bit warm but it was manageable. The park has a pool, cafe, and other great amenities. As our site was sort of on the edge of the park, we had no cell signal," reports Raf A. from Temecula-Vail Lake KOA.
