Observatory Campground
Open April 1 through November 30. Currently open and accepting reservations via Recreation.gov. The campground may close temporarily during major winter weather events. Campfires are permitted in established fire rings within the developed campground.
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
Observatory Campground in Cleveland National Forest provides a unique camping experience for astronomy enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Located at 4,800 feet elevation in Southern California's Palomar Mountains, the campground sits just two miles from the Palomar Observatory, a world-class research facility operated by Caltech. The facility features 36 sites (30 single and 6 double), with several equipped with level cement pads specifically designed for telescope setup. The campground offers solid amenities including drinking water, hot coin-operated showers during peak season, flush toilets (peak season), and vault toilets year-round. Each loop features trash collection, grills, and fire rings. Two ADA-accessible sites are available. The forested setting of pine and oak provides shade, while strategically cleared sites offer unobstructed views of the night sky. Free monthly "Explore the Stars" events run Fridays and Saturdays through spring, summer, and fall, bringing amateur astronomers together to share the night sky with visitors. An on-site amphitheater hosts interpretive programs and occasional movies. The 2.2-mile Observatory National Recreation Trail connects directly to Palomar Observatory. Wildlife including mountain lions, feral pigs, and black bears have been sighted in the area.
Directions
From Los Angeles, drive south on I-15 to State Highway 76. Go east on 76 for approximately 20 miles and turn left onto South Grade Road (County Road S6). Follow to the top of Palomar Mountain. At the top, turn left to continue on South Grade Road/Canfield Road. Continue for approximately 2.5 miles and turn right into the campground. The closest address is 35899 Canfield Road, Palomar Mountain; the campground is about 2 miles north of this address along Canfield Road.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $40 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 35ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 35ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (760) 788-0250 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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