CHULA VISTA

Closed — The campground is currently closed for winter season. It typically reopens in mid-April when snow clears and closes again in mid-November.

About

Chula Vista Walk-In Campground is situated at the end of Mt. Pinos Highway at 8,300 feet elevation in Los Padres National Forest. This primitive campground features 12 well-spaced campsites shaded by large Jeffrey pines, providing the privacy and intimacy sought by experienced campers. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring, though campers must be completely self-sustainable as no potable water is available onsite. The campground is accessed via a short 500-yard walk from the Chula Vista Parking Lot, which serves as both a trailhead and a popular destination for winter snow play and stargazing. The area is renowned for its exceptional dark skies, making it one of the premier stargazing locations within two hours of Los Angeles. The parking area provides access to the Mt. Pinos Summit Botanical Area, Mt. Pinos Condor Observation Site, the Chumash Wilderness, and the Tumamait Trail. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations required. A 14-day stay limit applies, and quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. During winter months when snow is present, an Adventure Pass or $5 day use fee is required for parking. The campground typically closes during winter, approximately from mid-November through mid-April, though the parking area remains accessible for winter recreation.

Directions

Located at the end of Mt. Pinos Highway/Cuddy Valley Road/Mt. Pinos Road. Park at the Chula Vista Parking Lot. The campground is approximately 500 yards northeast of the parking lot.

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