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The best RV sites in Palomar Mountain State Park, CA
93% (68)
High elevation hiking with a world-renowned observatory.
93% (68)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Palomar Mountain State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Palomar Mountain State Park
Doane Valley Campground
1. Doane Valley Campground
99%
(38)
With 31 sites, Doane Valley Campground is a great escape in the Palomar Mountain area
Pets
Observatory Campground
2. Observatory Campground
87%
(30)
Located within earshot of the famous Palomar Observatory, this well-named campground offers visitors numerous camping outlets such as RV parking stations, well-defined tenting areas―and electric outlets themselves
Sewer hookup
Pets
Top-rated campsites near Palomar Mountain State Park
Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
1. Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch
93%
(1376)
1.7mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space
for over a 15 thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago.
Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day.
Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any Sacred space; with RESPECT.
We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.
Pets
Avocado Farm Retreat
2. Avocado Farm Retreat
100%
(12)
5.9mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy private campsites and wander through an organic avocado grove. Wake up among the fruit trees with a view of Palomar Mountain, while cool ocean breezes come up through Pauma Valley. Start your day in nature with a delicious avocado grown next to your campsite, or farm fresh eggs.
This is a very peaceful, pristine wide open space with paths through the native chaparral and plenty of wildlife. Only five miles from Palomar Mountain State Park, the campsite is the perfect base camp for any outdoor adventure in the Pauma Valley. This brand new/in progress campsite has lots of potential and we'd love to hear your ideas on future improvements.
Composting toilet available, and outhouse coming soon!
Pets
JMP CAMP
3. JMP CAMP
96%
(13)
7.8mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy our quite, secluded property and get away from the big city. it’s only 15 to 20 min drive from the Temecula winery’s with many restaurants, shopping, and Casino options. Enjoy the panoramic views of MT Palomar. We have plenty of space for big RVS or for someone who just wants to pitch a tent. There is fresh water to fill your tanks but you must be able to boondock your rig as there is no electric hookups or sewage. We do have 1 gas generator for rent so contact me for details if needed.
Water hookup
Pets
Saddle Up Camp
4. Saddle Up Camp
95%
(323)
7.9mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Saddle Up Ranch is a horse rescue that is ever growing. We have over 180 trees on the property (mostly beautiful flowing California Pepper Trees) and have gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and horse pastures.We offer horseback riding, goat yoga, and goat milking. You can also volunteer and help care for the animals while you are here by feeding, grooming or simply petting them.
TJ, our owner, is working her way through the race track. Our campsites are managed by Tony. He works closely with guests to expand our campsites. TJ and many of the guides volunteer hard hours to rehabilitate the horse and give them a good home. You should see how the animals flock to TJ. The ranch also has goats, pigs, chickens, dogs and cats. You can support our mission of rescuing horses by booking one of our horseback riding or other services! Thank you for your support!
Guests love staying here: "Second stay and looking forward to returning again! <3 We were the only campers during the weekend, it was so serene. It gets very cold at night but the star filled skies are breathtaking. This time during our stay we had 3 kitty visitors and 3 dogs that rolled up to our camp multiple times, it felt like they were checking up on us. It was so cute. The sweet Aussie poked his head in our tent to say "you good?" haha It was so cute and they were extremely friendly and social! The black kitten stayed at our camp all night and cuddled on our laps by the fire. It was such a lovely experience. TJ and her crew have done an amazing job with this place, I don't have enough words to explain. Just see for yourself! You'll love it!! Can't wait to visit again!"
Pets
Elysian Groves
5. Elysian Groves
96%
(12)
12mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Elysian Groves, a stunning property nestled in the rolling hills of Valley Center. With 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Palomar Mountain, and the ocean, Elysian Groves is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.
Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, Elysian Groves offers ample space for all your camping needs. Our property features flat, grassy areas that are ideal for pitching a tent, as well as spacious parking areas for RVs. And with our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the land, you can rest assured that you'll be camping in a pristine, unspoiled environment.
But that's not all that Elysian Groves has to offer. As a working avocado and citrus grove, our property is surrounded by acres of lush fruit trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure. And with easy access to nearby hiking trails, beaches, and other outdoor activities, you'll never run out of things to do.
At Elysian Groves, we're committed to providing a peaceful, relaxing, and memorable camping experience. Come experience the beauty of our grove for yourself and create memories that will last a lifetime. We can't wait to welcome you!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Hideout Mountain Lodge
6. Hideout Mountain Lodge
95%
(436)
13mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hideout Mountain Lodge is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the hills of Santa Ysabel, just over an hour from San Diego and a couple of hours from Los Angeles. Spread across 40 acres, the property offers a variety of places to stay — from remodeled cabins with fireplaces and private decks, to vintage trailers, campsites, and RV spots with full hookups and views of Lake Henshaw.
This is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the landscape. Guests gather around the community firepit, take walks through the oaks, or just relax on a porch and listen to the birds.
On weekends, you can wander over to Josie’s Hideout Saloon, our on-site bar and restaurant, known for its live music and western character.
We’re just a few minutes from the towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian, easy to get to but far enough away to feel like an escape.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Starry Night at Rancho Moto
7. Starry Night at Rancho Moto
100%
(15)
13mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover a secluded escape surrounded by natural beauty and endless adventure! Our property borders the 1,000-acre Dr. Bronner Preserve, which connects to the Cooper Cienega Truck Trail—one of Southern California’s rare OHV-legal dirt roads. This location is surrounded by national forest, BLM land, and the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, offering some of the best dual-sport motorcycling, mountain biking, 4x4 trails, and outdoor activities anywhere.
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and nearby horse trails wind through the valley, providing unique opportunities for hikers and equestrians. Just a mile away, you’ll find the Lieu Quan Meditation Center, home to the largest reclining Buddha in the Americas.
Unwind with breathtaking sunsets and crystal-clear starry skies—perfect for stargazing or telescoping. With a peaceful atmosphere that feels like you have the whole campground to yourself, it’s hard to believe you’re just 30 miles from Old Town Temecula.
Come experience the best of nature, adventure, and serenity in this one-of-a-kind location!
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Santa Ysabel Dark Sky Retreat
8. Santa Ysabel Dark Sky Retreat
98%
(91)
14mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Private mountain campsites at 3200 feet.
Escape the city and settle into true solitude at our private campsite, tucked inside a designated dark sky zone. Watch the Milky Way emerge overhead while the sounds of nature and the scent of wild lilac and sage fill the air around you.
Pets
Wine Country Olive & Vine Acres
9. Wine Country Olive & Vine Acres
97%
(29)
15mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to our charming hobby farm, just one mile from the Temecula wineries! Enjoy a night under the stars in your own private camping space, perfect for families and adults alike. Unwind in our game room and bar for some happy hour fun, and experience the beauty of farm life with all the comforts of a unique getaway.
We are conveniently located near 40 wineries, Lake Skinner recreation, Pechanga Casino, Old Town Temecula, and hiking trails. There is something for everyone!
Private campsite with plenty of space and shade. ( 2 sights available) May be booked at the same time.
Fire pit and outdoor seating.
Clean restroom access.
Game room and bar area.
Come enjoy simple living, beautiful views and peaceful rest - the perfect getaway for nature lovers and wine sippers alike! We'd love to host you!
Dos Fernandos' Hideaway RV vineyard
10. Dos Fernandos' Hideaway RV vineyard
100%
(13)
16mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Profile Information -
Dos Fernandos' Hideaway is sitting on 18 acres in the heart of Temecula Valley Wine Country with 12 acres planted in vineyards that are harvested for Robert Renzoni Winery. There are five wineries within a mile of our location as well as the entrance to Lake Skinner just a quarter mile away.
If the weather permits, you may see and hear the many hot air balloons gliding over our vineyards and gardens. Our family acquired the land in 1990 and have planted every grape vine, flora and tree here since 2000. The grounds now enjoy mature shade trees and cypresses with resident owls, red tailed hawks, road runners and other wildlife.
Pets
Native Falls Campground
11. Native Falls Campground
90%
(119)
17mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are very glad you found us!
Our hours are from 9am to 5pm everyday. Check in time starts at noon.
Accommodations include fully furnished cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. The campground includes a lake with a waterfall, a sandy beach, lake toys, and catch & release fishing. Additional amenities include a Pickleball Court, shuffleboard, Pool Table, fire pits, picnic tables, hiking trails, and more!
Pets
Full hookups
Shadow Hills
12. Shadow Hills
98%
(203)
18mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Minutes from the heart of Temecula Wine Country, Shadow Hills provides beautiful panoramic views in a peaceful setting. Enjoy your morning coffee while watching hot air balloons glide through the morning sky. Then make the short trip to Wine Country for award winning wines, food and events.
Shadow Hills is a former eucalyptus farm on 4 acres in Temecula Wine Country. We love our little SoCal ranch and look forward to sharing it with you! The campsites are located near the top of the property and are easily accessed using the paved driveway. The local wildlife includes hawks, bunnies, birds, lizards, coyotes, and, on rare occasions, deer, snakes and bobcats.
Shadow Hills provides a quiet and rustic environment within reach of Temecula wines, events, and cuisine.
Pets
Wilson Hill Retreat
13. Wilson Hill Retreat
95%
(11)
19mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 1 site
5 Acres in beautiful Twin Oaks. Camp site is private and on the East side of the property with views of lush trees. Site is a paved trailer slip, with full hook ups (30 and 50 AMP). Property is fully gated; owners live on the property as well. Cal State University San Marcos is 4.5 miles, where there are restuarants, entertainment and grocery stores. Lots of shopping near by and 13 miles to the beachs. Convenient to all. **disclaimer a neighbor has roosters :) 🐔
Pets
Full hookups
Eyrie Farm Tent Camping
14. Eyrie Farm Tent Camping
94%
(139)
19mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We're in a farming town with 35+ vineyards nearby.
Rustic farm tent camping away from city. The Eyrie Farm is named for all the bird life around: Red-tailed Hawks nesting in nearby Eucalyptus, Prairie Falcons, wild California Quail, songbirds, plus our own turkeys, chickens, ducks and quail we raise for meat and eggs. Come stay with us and hike or tour the many wineries in the town of Ramona! Enjoy the stars on a clear night.
Thompson Palms Campground
15. Thompson Palms Campground
96%
(56)
19mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a palm grower on 12 acres with many fruit trees, flowers, gardens, and animals.
45 minutes to the ocean. 1 hour from Mexico, 10 miles to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, 45 minutes to Sea World, 45 minutes to Legoland. We have about 30+ vineyards in our community for wine tasting. Many hiking trails including the MT Woodson trail to the famous Potato Chip Rock. Many other entertainment sites nearby, for info just ask.
Pets
Full hookups
Easy RV Vista
16. Easy RV Vista
100%
(17)
20mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 1 site
Easy RV Vista — North County San Diego
Full-hookup RV sites on a private property just off Highway 76 in Vista — easy on, easy off, no tight turns or tricky maneuvering. Sites are flat, open, and sized for big rigs. Pull in, set up, and unwind.
Enjoy true Southern California evenings — wide sunset views, warm breezes, and a quiet neighborhood feel without being far from anything. You're a short drive from the coast, wine country, hiking, and some of San Diego's best towns.
What's included:
32-amp electrical hookup
Water hookup
High-speed WiFi
Picnic table
Extra vehicle parking on site
Please note: These are hookup-only sites with no bathroom facilities on property. There is no sewer hookup or dump station — guests must have sufficient tank capacity for their stay or plan accordingly. Guests must be fully self-contained with onboard bathroom. Not suitable for tent campers or van lifers without a built-in bathroom. The nearest public dump station is Oceanside Harbor (~10 miles), open year-round for $10.
Weekly stays welcome — book 7+ nights and save 20%.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Grey Blooms Flower Farm
17. Grey Blooms Flower Farm
91%
(17)
20mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 1 site
Welcome to our cozy gated piece of paradise! Located just 10 miles away from the beautiful coastline, our property offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers and enthusiasts alike. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or parking your RV, we have you covered.
Situated only 5 miles from the popular Wave Water Park, you'll have easy access to endless fun and excitement. After a day of splashing around, retreat back to our peaceful and quiet area, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
If you're in the mood for some exploration, head to the quaint town just 5 miles away. Discover charming shops, local eateries, and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, our property provides the ideal base for your stay.
Book your stay now and experience the serenity and convenience that our cozy gated piece of paradise has to offer. We can't wait to welcome you!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Morro Hills - Dark Sky Dry Camp/RV
18. Morro Hills - Dark Sky Dry Camp/RV
91%
(143)
20mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Our farm is quiet and private but still central to all the fun of Southern California. It is a simple spot to crash for the night or the week!
We are 15-20 minutes to the beach (13 miles)
San Diego Zoo Safari park: 29 miles
Legoland: 18 miles
Sea World: 47 miles
Property is gated. Several families live on the property full-time and we have two hipcamp spots. We welcome friends and pets alike.
Pets
Hidden Waters
19. Hidden Waters
99%
(41)
21mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 3 sites
These 6 acres are like a secret gated oasis in the middle of rural Vista. The site has access to power and water and a natural spring-fed stream and pond, a shade structure with a table for meals and a little creekside trail. Plenty of space to view wildlife, romp around, play games or rest and relax. In town for work? Surf trip? It is a family-friendly escape that’s close to everything!
((IMPORTANT: NO BATHROOMS ON SITE))
5 minutes to Rancho Guajome Adobe
6 minutes to Guajome Regional Park
10 minutes to multiple stores, restaurants, coffee shops, urgent care etc…
20 minutes to the beach
20 minutes to Fallbrook wineries
25 minutes to Carlsbad Flower Fields
30 minutes to Legoland
40 minutes to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
50 minutes to USS Midway
50 minutes to Sea World
50 minutes to San Diego Zoo
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Villa Macala
20. Villa Macala
100%
(403)
21mi from Palomar Mountain State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Villa Macala is a 20-acre oasis of detailed landscape, orchards and Southern CA native planting while complimenting the natural rocks and gorgeous views. Enjoy the many hiking trails and rest in the peace, quiet and beauty.
Overlooking the Hemet Valley with gorgeous panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, Villa Macala is reminiscent of an Italian Villa. The property landscape includes Olive Orchards throughout, a growing vineyard, fig trees, pomegranate trees.
Villa Macala is 15 minutes from Diamond Valley Lake where you can enjoy a wildflower trail, fishing or mountain bike trails, museum and water park. It is 20-30 minutes to Pachea Trail and Simpson Park where you can enjoy more great hiking and mountain bike trails. It is also a 30-minute drive to Temecula Wine Country.
We have 2 full outdoor bathrooms, one was most recently added at our Elderberry Camp Site (site 1), and is also close to site 4 our Oaks Campsite as well. (Please note our 2nd bathroom is a good walk uphill from the campsites). Our larger bathroom campers can use with a shower and small fridge to store your food.
We also have a playground with swing set for kids to enjoy.
PLEASE NOTE: Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance.
FIRES: No fires are to be lit by the campers without verbal consent from property owner and instruction. SEE property owner/camp host upon arrival about what you may use on the property. He will provide instructions.
TASTINGS: *Temporarily tastings are shut down.*
Macala Orchards Olive Oil, Various Jellies and Jams Pomegranate Juice all made from what we grow are available for tasting upon request. Please let us know prior to arrival if you are interested in a scheduled tasting during your stay! We can provide a tasting if we have the proper staff during your visit. Our products are available for purchase, with or without a tasting. We recommend you bring cash if you are interested. We also take Venmo!
GETTING TO VILLA MACALA: The road up to Villa Macala is a dirt road uphill, all vehicles fair well, we attempt to keep the road maintained as well as possible, after heavy rains it is a bit more bumpy but safe. Drive slow!
Full hookups
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Karissa
1 week ago
22 ft travel trailer
Tami and Robert were wonderful hosts, they were attentive with all needs and very kind. Their property is a perfect stay with full hook ups and many farm animals to tour and less than 30 minutes from the coast! We will definitely stay here again.
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A
Aiva
1 week ago
16 ft car
Beautiful property and felt safe solo camping here definitely recommend
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O
Olivia
1 week ago
15 ft rooftop tent
Staying at Bernie and Hoa’s was honestly like going to my relatives land and camping. It was awesome! What they have here is exactly what my dream is. I felt right at home.
See moreN
Ni
2 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
With pets
Tami and Robert were good hosts! Their dogs were very sweet.
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Jennifer
2 weeks ago
18 ft Class B
With pets
Easy to find, just as pictured. Great communication with the host. Nice quiet neighborhood, perfect for a quick overnight as we were traveling through the area. We would definitely stay again!
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m
michael
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
Safe and quiet, Lexi was welcoming! I would go back!
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M
Monica
3 weeks ago
20 ft Class B
We love staying here. Bernie and Hoa are wonderful hosts and the full hookups are great. This was our second stay and we’ll stay again if we are in the area.
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V
Vickie
3 weeks ago
29 ft Class C
Lacy is very hands on and makes you feel right at home!! You can tell she takes great pride in her land. Her husband even came to check to make sure we were ok! This is remote yet near anything you can possibly want or need. I was thanful to be able to YouTube videos learning about my rv in privacy. Beautiful pond and surrounding area.
Thanks Lacy! I will definately revisit int he future!!
-Vickie
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T
Twyla
June 2026
22 ft Class B
Had a great stay. Bernie and Hoa were very welcoming and invited us to walk/explore their beautiful property. Enjoyed the sunset and star gazing in the evening. We purchased fresh eggs and Bernie gave us a sampling of fruits and vegetables. It was quiet and relaxing. All 3 sites were level with full hook ups. Enjoyed our stay and will be back.
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Paul
June 2026
18 ft travel trailer
A truly wonderful spot and can't say enough good things about Bernie and Hoa as hosts. They were so welcoming, graciously offered lemons, tangerines, and cucumbers from their garden. Even invited me over to join the neighborhood potluck they were hosting, having known me for 30 minutes!
RV hook ups were easily accessible, and spot was exactly as promised.
10/10 would recommend. Will definitely be returning myself!
See moreK
Klint
June 2026
16 ft travel trailer
This space was night and quiet. Nice neighbors and I would not only recommend it but would stay here again myself.
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Sarah
May 2026
26 ft Class C
With pets
Great location for day trips! Simple, wifi was great and area was perfect for the dogs with fencing. Host/Hostess were responsive and accommodating and super nice. We'd definitely stay again!
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Emma
May 2026
16 ft car
Lexi was such a great host! She is very responsive and accommodating and the neighbors were kind.
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V
Victoria
May 2026
10 ft campervan
Very serene piece of land right next to a private pond. Loved this place, would stay again.
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A
Alan
May 2026
36 ft Class A
With pets
A full hook-up spot on 12 acres of farmland makes for a nice stay. Other than the sporadic crowing of a rooster and the occasional braying of a donkey it was a nice getaway from anything resembling a city. Directions to the property were clear and Bernie is a really interesting guy to talk to. I would definitely go back again.
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Patrick
May 2026
16 ft truck camper
It's very rural and isolated and felt like real camping.
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Frances
May 2026
16 ft truck camper
It was so special to spend the day at the beach and the evening in the hills. So grateful to spend time at Morro Hills -- easy to find, simple, quiet, and beautiful as far as the eye can see. Orange Peel was perfect for a one night stay and I would definitely stay here again.
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Monica
May 2026
21 ft Class B
We had a great stay (5 nights) and Bernie and Hoa are wonderful hosts. Casual quiet atmosphere and the full hookups were a bonus. We would stay again.
See moreJ
Janet
May 2026
22 ft travel trailer
Great place! Very private and quiet. Host very friendly. Close to San Diego for day trips. Very flat pull thru sites.
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Javier
May 2026
24 ft Class C
Great place, very quiet, comfortable, and close to everything. I'll be back.
See moreReviews for Palomar Mountain State Park Campgrounds
93%
68 ratings · 22 reviews
The location of our tent was very peaceful and surrounded by nature. The tent was cozy, clean, the bed was very comfy. We enjoyed hiking nearby trails and spending time with the friendly animals of the farm. The staff were incredibly welcoming and helpful, especially Lisa, making us feel right at home. We will miss the dogs for sure! I Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking to disconnect and recharge in a beautiful setting.
E
Enmanuel M.
10 reviews
Recommends
· August 2022
Great campground. We had site 26 in Aug. There was plenty of flat space. We fit our 8 person tent with a porch and a 2 person tent easily. The area for the larger tent was in the shade all day. The rest of the site is in full sun in the early AM only. There’s a good amount of shade the rest of the day.
Bathrooms and showers are clean but there is limited privacy between the two shower stalls. Bring dollar bills for converting to tokens.
Almost every site has stairs. The stairs for 26 are not bad but the adjacent site 25 had tons of stairs and doesn’t have a lot of flat space.
There are lots of flying bugs. It’s worse in the AM and late afternoon. A small fan worked like a charm.
Stephanie M.
3 years on Hipcamp
June 2021
Stayed here for the first time this weekend. Pros: really nice campground, cleanest restrooms I've ever seen at a campground, showers available, shaded sites, some decently private. Cons: the slope, looked like almost every site was on a slope too. You have to consider it when sleeping and cooking. Gets very cold at night, it was in the 80s in the day and mid 40s overnight. The flies were terrible. We used bug spray and candles and they were still swarming us. But the worst is that that there's not much to do unless you like to hike a ton. Would have been amazing if there was a swimming hole nearby, but with little kids it's not possible to hike miles in deep to swim. But overall a very nice campground!
M
Ms D.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2020
Due to Covid I have been dragging my husband to every campsite I can get us into all to avoid crowds and to practice social distancing while enjoying a bit of nature this was our 4th site we visited, By far my favorite over all , the trees alone made it my favorit nice shade far far far away deep in the mountain. nice size campsite oh & the stars wow breathtaking
Cecilia T.
6 years on Hipcamp
July 2020
Too many bugs!! I would say invest in a mosquito canopy. That's what I'll do next time. At some point we had to eat in the car because the bugs kept following us.
Maria H.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2019
Did a group camping trip here at the end of March:
- Drove past Lake Elsinore and saw the super bloom which was really cool
- Sites 1-3 are on the side of a steep hill. Fine for adults, we were super nervous with toddlers who weren't very stable.
- Site 1 fit a shiftpod + 2 smaller tents, very slanty ground
- Site 2 fit a shiftpod + 1 small tent, very slanty ground
- Site 3 only had room for 1 10x10' tent, had gnarly steps getting into the site, and the slanty ground wasn't too bad
- Site 31 was optimal - flat ground, space for multiple tents, and two long picnic tables for group meals
- each site had potable water, and the bathrooms were close and clean
- sites 4, 7, and 8 were in the middle, and ontop of each other
Domanique A.
8 years on Hipcamp
June 2018
There is no service here at the campsite. The Observatory Trail is a great hike, but check Observatory hours if you are looking for a tour. They are limited.
J
Joey M.
8 years on Hipcamp
Mixed feelings
· July 2017
This place is beautiful and has water, showers, and bathrooms. Some of the spots are away from the parking lot and a little feel more private. My biggest complaint here is the bugs! I understand that bugs come with camping but this is out of control. Our camping neighbors were surprised by them as well. I was coverd in mosquito and flea bites after one night and I used bug spray with deet. There were also a very persistent swarm of flies that would not go away until after the sun was down and would be right back in the morning. At least they didn't bite.
If there was some type of bug control this campground would be an A+
A
Aimee H.
9 years on Hipcamp
May 2017
Super rad campground, surrounded by trees and some awesome incline campsites. Felt like we had the wilderness as our backyard at our campsite. Great nature trail stemming from the campground as well. Will definitely be back!
Michael C.
9 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2017
They don't (as of 4/28/17) sell firewood at the campground. Bring your own
A
Adam K.
9 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2017
Excellent facilities. Restrooms, showers, and very clean and well maintained.
G
Garrett B.
9 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2017
Get directions beforehand, you may lose service as you get close.
John P.
9 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
Great mountain getaway! The observatory is nearby for a daytime visit. Lots of shade, so prepare for cooler temps even in summer time. Beautiful skies in the mountain, but you need to hike a little to see it because of the trees.
Natalia R.
9 years on Hipcamp
Mixed feelings
· February 2017
Bring bee and fly traps when we were there they were out of control!?
Kevin P.
9 years on Hipcamp
December 2016
Camped here over a Thanksgiving weekend. Still amazed at how hot it gets during the day even when freezing your butt off overnight. Great spot for watching the stars - bring your telescope if you have it! Don't miss the Palomar Observatory while you were there.
Wendy H.
9 years on Hipcamp
July 2016
Fun place to camp up in the mountains, especially if you like astronomy. There are concrete pads at some of the sites for you to set up your telescope! Nice hike from the campsite up to the observatory. And be sure to look for the giant pinecones!
Jesse S.
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2016
Nice clean campground- some sites are really small for a large tent and the parking of a large truck could be tricky. Also, some sites you need to carry your things up a few steps. It was quite and perfect
Lia G.
10 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
People reserve up to a year in advance for peak season weekends, so be sure to book em early if you plan on going during a busy time.
H
Hipcamper
11 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
They only take cash and checks at the park, so be sure to stock up on some bills beforehand
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Hipcamper
11 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
Sites on the 1-8 loop of Doane Valley Campground are on pretty flat ground, we recommend these if you don’t want to worry about the incline of some of the sites.
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Hipcamper
11 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
At high elevation, it can get kind of chilly up there -- bring layers!
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Hipcamper
11 years on Hipcamp
March 2015
Make sure to check out the observatory, it’s open to the public and a super interesting place if you want to take the hike up.
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Hipcamper
11 years on Hipcamp
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