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Cleveland/Observatory
Overview
The Cleveland/Observatory Campground, managed as part of the Cleveland National Forest, offers a high-altitude retreat for those looking to experience the wilder side of Southern California. Situated on the slopes of Palomar Mountain, this facility provides a peaceful atmosphere under a canopy of old-growth trees. It serves as a gateway to both celestial wonders and lush mountain landscapes, providing a quiet alternative to busy coastal parks.
Location & Surroundings
Located at an elevation of 5,600 feet, the surroundings are characterized by a mix of pine, fir, and oak forests. The drive up the mountain via Highway S6 involves steep grades and sharp turns, rewarding travelers with sweeping vistas of the San Diego County valleys below. The temperature here remains significantly cooler than the lowlands, making it a refreshing destination for those seeking to escape the summer heat of the desert.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a rustic camping experience where paved parking spurs accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet in length. It is important to note there are no utility hookups or dump stations on-site, requiring campers to arrive fully self-contained for dry camping. The park provides basic necessities including vault toilets, drinking water, and individual picnic tables. A unique highlight includes specialized concrete telescope pads at several campsites to ensure stability for night sky viewing.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
A short two-mile distance away is the iconic Palomar Observatory, which houses the historic 200-inch Hale Telescope. Outdoor enthusiasts can trek the Observatory Trail, a scenic four-mile round-trip path that winds through the forest and offers interpretative signs about the local ecology. During peak months, the park often serves as a base for amateur astronomers who host informal star parties, taking advantage of some of the darkest skies in the region.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is perfect for astronomy buffs and nature photographers who want to utilize the clear mountain air for professional or hobbyist viewing. It appeals most to boondocking enthusiasts who prefer a quiet, natural setting over a busy commercial resort environment. Because of the winding mountain access roads and modest site dimensions, it is best suited for those traveling in camper vans, truck campers, or smaller travel trailers.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Ron Padgett
Camped this past weekend and had a great experience. There was no host at the campground that we saw, but the restrooms were well stocked and trash bins were empty. There was a large group on Saturday night that was a little loud, but not really bothersome.
Paul Grenier
Site #41/42. Small campground on Palomar Mountain with clean flush toilets and hot showers. Not far from bustling cities yet seems like you’re out in the wilderness when you get on top of the mountain. It was very hot when we visited in July and our site didn’t have much shade. Campground is a popular destination for amateur astronomers who gather to stargaze. The weekend we were there they were set up and allowed the rest of us to peer through their telescopes at the planets and stars. To see a larger telescope, there is a trail from the campground to the world renowned 200 inch Palomar Observatory which is open to the public for tours.
Leilani Gjellstad
Nice shady sites and some are tucked away/private. Nice to have at least one flushing toilet. Hike to observatory is pretty with lots of shade and variety of landscapes.
MJ Brewer
Expected a bit more than was promised, I suppose. Welcomed by an empty spot where the volunteer was supposed to be—never saw them in three days. Was granted a warm welcome by a trio of mosquitos, flies, and bees in unison that never left until nightfall. Searched for the trail to the observatory so at least an amazing view would be had. A 45-minute hike ended in the middle of a wooded area with a dilapidated barbed wire fence. Speaking of aged, not being of this education, it seems relatively apparent the wildlife is quickly dying. Throughout a 24-hour period, at least 4 or 5 branches will echo dying aches as they collapse from the tree—be careful where you set up camp. The great news is the guests were in good spirits. The restrooms were clean with toilet paper. The showers are unbelievably divine, considering they are in the middle of the wilderness. And if you appreciate bird songs, you’ll have your fill. There are gorgeous blue jays, blue birds, robins, etc. and an aromatic smell of fires in the evening. PLEASE, for the love of God, CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF! Your mom isn’t here to do it for you.
Lolita Thompson
This is my first camping even though I am a hiker. This campground didn’t disappoint. I am always concern about bathrooms. This campground is clean. There is also a coin shower rooms. The fact that they provide walk-ins to camp. Make sure to check the map for spaces that mark W. It is quiet and very nice. You can buy wood on the way. In fact there is a truck that sells them just pay cash and drop off the box or bar code to pay. 5$ is enough to burn for a night for the experience and scare the bugs too. NOTE: there is a lot of bugs( make sure to bring a head net ) no reception that’s fine it will bring you closer to nature. Just bring a book to read . There is a fire ring on every spaces. And they have tables. I will definitely come back to camp. I highly recommend this place.