Established Camping
Observatory Campground
Observatory Campground, near Palomar Mountain, California, is a solid choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while being close to the famous Palomar Observatory. With a mix of tent and RV sites, it’s designed to accommodate various camping styles, and you’ll find picnic tables and firewood available to enhance your stay.
The campground is surrounded by beautiful pine and cedar trees, providing a scenic backdrop for your outdoor adventures. Many visitors have enjoyed the well-maintained facilities, including drinking water and toilets, making it a comfortable spot for families and friends. One camper noted, “The campsite was well maintained and had all the necessary amenities,” which sums up the general vibe here.
For those eager to explore, the Observatory Campground is just a short hike away from the observatory itself, where you can dive into some fascinating science. While some campers mentioned the presence of bugs, especially near the creek, lighting a campfire usually helps keep them at bay. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to choose your site wisely, as some require a bit of a trek to reach.
Description
USDA Forest Service
Cleveland National Forest
Overview
Science buffs and families are drawn to Observatory Campground for its proximity to the Palomar Observatory, a world-class center of astronomy research operated by the California Institute of Technology. Just two miles from the observatory, the campground provides visitors with a unique learning experience in the great outdoors. The facility offers a variety of amenities for both tent and RV camping. Hiking, biking and picnicking can be found nearby.
Recreation
An exciting amateur astronomy project, Explore the Stars, occurs at the campground on several weekends each summer. A group of amateur astronomers from all across Southern California shares the beauty and awe of the night sky to more than a hundred non-astronomers at the campground. Visitors can also walk a 2.25-mile trail to the observatory itself. Day hiking, biking, picnicking and scenic driving are available in the area. The campground makes a good base camp for visiting Palomar Mountain State Park and exploring the surrounding forest.
Natural Features
The campground sits at an elevation of 4,800 feet in the Palomar Mountains of Southern California. The site is forested with pine and oak trees, though several sites have been cleared to allow campers a wide view of the night sky.
Nearby Attractions
The campground is adjacent to Palomar Mountain State Park and under a two-hour drive from San Diego, California. A general store with basic necessities is down the road.
Reservation Info
The 32 campsites are available by reservation on http://www.recreation.gov/ Reservations must be made 8 days ahead of arrival and can be made up to 6 months in advance.
Location
Observatory Campground is located in California
Directions
The closest address to the campground is 35899 Canfield Road, Palomar Mountain, California. The campground is about 2 miles north of this address along Canfield Road. From Los Angeles, California, drive south on I-15 to State Highway 76. Go east on 76 for approximately 20 miles and turn left onto South Grade Road (County Road S6). Follow to the top of Palomar Mountain. Once at the top, turn left to continue on South Grade Road/Canfield Road. Continue for approximately 2.5 miles and turn right into the campground.
Address
S6
Palomar mountain, CA
Coordinates
33.3416667 N
116.8786111 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly