Crestline Picnic Ground
The campground is currently closed for the season. It reopens May 15, 2026, and operates through November 30. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov. Check current fire restrictions before visiting, as campfire prohibitions are common in this area.
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Orosco Ridge Closures
Forest Order details the implementation for temporary closures of Orosco Road, Boden Canyon Road, and Santa Ysabel Road to protect arroyo toads and their habitat during sensitive seasonal conditions. These closures will be implemented based on hydrologic and temperature triggers and will remain in…
Forest Truck Trail and Road Closures
For additional updated conditions, visit Forest Truck Trail and Road Closures.Contact Information: Cleveland National Forest Supervisor’s Office (phone: 858-673-6180)Forest and road closures change frequently depending on the fire hazard level, weather, and various other unforeseen elements. This…
Prescribed Fires Begin on the Cleveland
The Cleveland National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations this fall & winter. Work will continue through the spring as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from…
Water Unavailable at Penny Pines Trailhead Spigot
Attention Hikers: There is currently NO WATER available at the Penny Pines Trailhead. The water spigot pump is broken and there is no estimated time of repair at this time. Be prepared to bring or seek out alternative water sources.
Airport Fire Burned Area Closure
The Cleveland NF has closed the Airport Fire burned area perimeter on the Trabuco Ranger District of the Cleveland National Forest. This closure prohibits going into or being upon any National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within the boundaries of the closure. The closure will be in effect…
Camping Stay Limits
This order prohibits extended camping in developed campgrounds, undeveloped areas, and maximum annual camping durations. The purpose of this order is to provide for the protection of natural resources by prohibiting long-term or semi-permanent occupancy of National Forest System lands within the…
Cedar Creek Falls Forest Orders
Forest Order No. 02-23-02 closes the cliffs surrounding the falls, 02-23-03 requires visitors to have a permit to access the falls, 02-23-04 prohibits alcohol along the entirety of the trail system.
About
Crestline Group Campground occupies a forested setting at 5,390 feet on Palomar Mountain in the Cleveland National Forest of San Diego County. The single group site accommodates gatherings of up to 50 people, making it suitable for family reunions, scout troops, and other organized groups. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the campground features multiple picnic tables, a large fire pit with cooking grill, a dedicated cooking area with kitchen table, ADA-accessible sidewalks and tent pads, and a vault toilet. Potable water is available on site via a spigot near the kitchen area. RVs up to 27 feet can be accommodated, though the site is primarily designed for tent camping with no electrical hookups. The surrounding forest provides ample open space for stargazing and group activities. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the area's attractions. The Palomar Observatory, a world-class astronomical research facility operated by Caltech, is nearby. Palomar Mountain State Park is adjacent to the campground, offering additional hiking, biking, and scenic driving opportunities throughout the surrounding national forest.
Directions
From San Diego, follow US Highway 15 north to State Highway 76. Proceed east to County Road S6. Take S6 north to the top of Palomar Mountain. The group campground is at the junction of County Roads S6 and S7.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $75 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 27ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (760) 788-0250 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
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