Dispersed camping areas near Palomar Mountain offer alternatives to developed campgrounds, with sites scattered throughout Cleveland National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations even during summer months, with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s at higher elevations. Forest roads accessing many dispersed sites become impassable after rainfall, requiring advance planning and appropriate vehicles.
What to do
Hiking the Ramona Trail: Access this trail from behind the washhouse at Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Campground. "The Romona trail starts/ends directly behind the washhouse," notes Kyle M., making it convenient for overnight campers seeking day hikes without relocating vehicles.
Wildlife watching: Multiple camping areas offer wildlife viewing opportunities. At Tool Box Springs, one camper reports, "Labor Day weekend. We occupied the only spot out of five. Lots of wildlife. Raccoons in the night, gray squirrel, other squirrels, many birds" (Rhyn E.).
Fishing access: While swimming isn't permitted, Kumeyaay Lake Campground provides fishing access in an urban park setting. "You can't swim in the lake, but you can fish and it's very pleasant to walk around and bird watch. There is so much to do in this urban park, you could spend many days here" (Elise F.).
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: The Thomas Mountain area offers isolation even on busy weekends. A recent visitor to Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Campground shared: "Awesome spot! Just got back this past weekend and the service road to get up was absolutely covered in mud and snow. Would 100% recommend it, but if it's been snowing or raining, you'll need high clearance and 4x4" (Kyle M.).
Established facilities: Some yellow post sites include concrete amenities. At San Bernardino National Forest Santa Rosa Springs Campground, a camper noted, "There are 16 yellow post sites along the Santa Rosa Truck Trail (7S02) from hwy 74. Most of the sites are beyond the springs that are flowing through a faucet at Santa Rosa Springs... There are concrete tables and large fire rings in each site" (Andrew D.).
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-fee dispersed sites. At Pine Creek Road Camp, a camper shared, "Great area--it's just close enough to some expensive campgrounds and a few connecting trails, so it's awesome to camp here for FREE. Pine Creek Road itself is paved, and the camping spots are packed dirt so it's easy to get around even in a FWD" (Sheridan S.).
What you should know
Reservation and permit requirements: While many dispersed sites don't require reservations, some areas need permits. For tent camping near Palomar Mountain at Round Valley Campsite, "Reservations go fast so you need to submit your permit starting 8 weeks before your trip, however waiting until 4 weeks may be too late. The permit only reserves your space on the mountain you will need to selected your exact campsite once you get to the ranger station" (Cody B.).
Vehicle access limitations: Most forest service roads require appropriate vehicles. At Tool Box Springs, one camper warned, "I had service up there, not to crowded and the spots are a good ways away from each other! The only downfall is without a high clearance vehicle, it took me an hour and a half to go six miles up, and still scraped and almost got stuck" (Jake P.).
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity varies significantly by season. One visitor to Tool Box Springs reported, "This site would've been perfect, and I mean perfect, but the flies were unbearable. I planned to stay two nights but I couldn't make it past the next morning. If I stood still even for a second I was swarmed" (Steve H.).
Tips for camping with families
Accessible urban camping: Families seeking less remote tent camping near Palomar Mountain can try Kumeyaay Lake Campground. "Perfect campground located right in San Diego. Great for families with small kids and there are many close trails. There is something for everyone. Bring a picnic to eat by the dam and let the kids explore. But beware of rattlesnakes. They are everywhere during the summer" (Katie O.).
Warn about challenging terrain: Prepare children for limited level ground at some sites. At Tool Box Springs, one camper observed the area was "peaceful and quiet, but entirely left to run away. Not a lot of level ground" (TR).
Safety precautions: Ensure family members understand wildlife awareness. When camping at dispersed sites like Pine Creek Road Camp, "We only spent one night but we never saw another person during our stay" (david), making proper safety planning essential.
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: RV campers should scout roads before attempting access with larger vehicles. At Pine Creek Road Camp, "Roads are PAVED, I think that's new because I don't remember that last year when I went! Great spot for camping, if you have a big rig it's a little tight to move around on the roads but definitely nice for sprinters/trucks/suvs or even cars!" (Ruben).
Site spacing information: RVers appreciate knowing distance between campsites. At Pine Creek Road Camp, "The camping spots are not close together and there seemed to be very few of them. Even driving slowly, I counted only 6 or 7 sites total, separated by up to a mile" (Sheridan S.).
Facility limitations: Most dispersed camping areas lack RV hookups and services. Pack accordingly for dry camping, as one visitor to Santa Rosa Springs noted: "I stayed at #13 in a roundabout of 4 campsites. I was there Wednesday-Friday with just a few jeep and truck drive byes, but I had the campground to myself" (Andrew D.).
