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Cleveland/Observatory
The Palomar Observatory is an astronomical observatory located in the Cleveland National Forest on Palomar Mountain in San Diego County, California. It is owned and operated by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). The observatory is home to the 200-inch (5.1 m) Hale Telescope, which was the world's largest telescope from 1949 until 1992, and the 48-inch (1.2 m) Samuel Oschin Telescope. The observatory also houses the Palomar Testbed Interferometer, a 30-meter (98 ft) radio telescope, and the Palomar Transient Factory, a robotic telescope dedicated to the study of transient astronomical events. The observatory is open to the public for tours and special events.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
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.
Ronnie Moacyr
This is a decent little campground with flush toilets and running water, as well as water spigots near various campsites. There are day use areas and ample parking, especially for those with disabilities. There are a small number of short paved trails. Vegetation is not kept up very well in all spots and some campsites are perpetually shaded. Beware when booking that some spots are double and cost as much. There's a tiny store down the road with the bare essentials including food, fuel and more. This campsite also has SHOWERS although I'm not sure about the water temperature.