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Palomar Mountain/Doane Valley

Palomar Mountain Doane Valley is a popular destination for outdoor recreation in San Diego County, California. Located in the Cleveland National Forest, the area is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as its abundance of hiking trails. The area is also home to the Palomar Observatory, which is one of the world’s largest optical telescopes. Visitors to the area can enjoy camping, fishing, and picnicking, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and mountain lions.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• Pond
• Fishing

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Tent Camping Allowed

- Other Amenities & Services

• Restroom and Showers
• Restroom/Showers ($)

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Hiking

- Facility

• Type (State Park)
• Partial Handicap Access

- On-Site Rentals

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- Sites

• Spaces Available (31)
• Paved Sites (31)
• Max Length (27)
• No Hookups (31)
• Back-ins (15 x 27)
• Room for Slideouts (No)
• Fire Rings

User Reviews

David Ayres

May 09, 2025

A quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the hustling bustle. Make this journey into the mountains and lose yourself in the nature the moment you enter. You never ever wanna let it go. Whether it's a trail run after work or a picnic with the crew, you can find something to do you.

Mamie Zembal

December 12, 2024

Finally made it here on a beautiful sunny cool day! At the entrance there is a self pay kiosk. We paid $10. Make sure you pay! They do have a ranger that tickets. It's a beautiful place well worth the cost. At the entrance I grabbed a hiking trails flyer since that is what I came to do. Several of them and nothing over 1.5 miles unless you want to connect other shorter trails. I did most of them except for a short spur one. It was amazing being in the deep forest, meandering through meadows, the historic Weir Lookout was peaceful and beautiful. After that caught the sunrise by the historic fire tower and lookout as the sun set over the ocean. It was wonderful! A great escape from the rat race. They also have a campground with showers I noted.

Samir Kambarov

December 05, 2024

One of the most beautiful trails I have ever hiked!

SlimmyGB

September 20, 2024

I went there for the bike ride and I was really impressed by the road and the views. The mountain run is twisty and technical and can be done in the uphill and downhill direction. My humble advice for you is not to get carried away because it’s not very forgiving. This is a highly recommended spot for a bike ride.

JitkaKac

April 13, 2024

We wanted to go to the Boucher Tower but the road was closed (Apr 12). There were also a lot of clouds in the area so we wouldn't probably see anything anyway.. So we hiked around the pond instead and spotted a couple squirrels & blackbirds there. The forest is beautiful! Day use fee is $10 for a car. Very friendly park rangers.

Map for Palomar Mountain/Doane Valley

Contact information