Observatory Campground

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.

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.

Marcelino Zarate

The first time in Palomar mountain is a beautiful place to camp. Easy trails, lush green forests, water streams running down. Two camp sites. Palomar campground has no host, so it is not actively monitored, which is a bummer. I recommend a weekend camp 🏕.

Jason Latonio

The showers were closed and not all the bathrooms were open. Also bathrooms are vaulted toilets. Suggest bringing your own Porto Potti and shower system. There is water on site to refill your water system if needed. Not all the campsites have shade, which is great for start gazing but bad when it’s hot out. The observatory is closed and there is a lot of overgrown poison oak on the trails so be careful. Campsite 32 has a tree swing. There were also lots of bugs and mosquitoes so come prepared. Some of the campsites are really nice and big and shady, some aren’t. You can also come first come first serve grab a camp site if it is not reserved. $15 payment honor system at a central lock box.