Observatory Campground
The numbers that decide it
- Longest rig
- 35 ft
- Sites
- 28
- Electric hookups
- Not published
- Pull-through sites
- No
- Paved access
- Yes
- Accessible sites
- 3
- Driveway grade
- Slight
- Bear boxes
- Not published
- Campfires
- Yes
- Shade
- Yes
- Group sites
- 7
Site-level detail from Recreation.gov, checked 2026-08-05. Where a field says “not published”, the agency has not published it — it does not mean zero. See it on Recreation.gov
Observatory Campground
Distance 5.2 miles of local trails Campfires Campfires are not allowed when elevated fire restrictions are in effect. Please see our current fire restrictions page for more details. Fees Adventure Pass Required for day use only, not required for camping Amenities Coin operated hot showers and flush toilets. Vaulted toilet, picnic tables, water Reservations To book one of the 42 sites, please visit Recreation.gov Best Seasons April - December Location Palomar Mountain, CA 92060 Ranger District Palomar Ranger District - (760) 788-0250 With a nearby world-class observatory, lots of amenities, and access to the scenic Observatory Trail , its no wonder the Observatory area comes to life during the summer. Get outdoors and explore all the area has to offer. Good for weekends and holidays, but reservations do fill up fast. There are a total of 42 sites, 36 single sites and six doubles.
Before you go
Season
April 01
Reservations
Reservations accepted
Fees
Fees: $20/night for single unit, $40/night for double unit, $5/night for extra vehicle. A Forest Adventure Pass is required for day use, but is not required for camping.
Restrictions
Vehicles 32 ft. max.
Make it a night on a better road
Byway plans the drive in — real stops, real weather, nothing invented.