Observatory Campground
Cleveland National Forest

starry sky, California
starry sky, California

Observatory Campground
Cleveland National Forest


Observatory Campground

Observatory Campground is near Palomar Observatory. Some portions of the campground are set amidst heavy forest while other parts are in open ground with clear views of the night sky. An amateur astronomy project, called Explore the Stars - Star Parties, occurs monthly during the spring, summer, and fall at Observatory Campground.

Most of the sites at Observatory Campground are standard campsites, while 6 are double sites. About two-thirds of the standard sites and all of the double sites are available for reservations. The remaining 10 sites are first come, first served.

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Observatory Campground Basics
Observatory Campground Location: Off S6, Palomar Mountain east of Escondido
Elevation: 4,870 feet
Mileage/Driving Time: 84 miles NE of San Diego - 1:55
67 miles east of Escondido - 1:40
Number of Campsites: 43
Camping Season: April through November
Max. People per Site: 8 (including children)
Vehicles per Site: 1-2, depending on site, extra vehicle fee $5 per night
Pets: On leash, always attended
Operated by: Cleveland National Forest
Campground Information: (760) 788-0250

Reservations for Observatory Campground
Reservations available: reservations are available for two-thirds of the sites whenever the campground is open; the rest of the sites are first come, first served.
Booking Window: Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance of arrival.
Maximum RV/Trailer Length: 32 feet
Wheelchair Accessible Sites: #3, 28, 35-36 (double site)
Fees: $15 for single sites, $30 for double sites
Campground Map: Observatory Campground Map
Reservations: Observatory Campground Reservations
Check-in, check-out: 2:00 PM, Noon

Observatory Campground Amenities
Campsites: Picnic table, fire ring, several sites with level concrete pads for telescopes, no hook-ups
Campground: Restrooms with flush toilets, vault toilets, tap water, campfire circle
Showers: Yes, coin operated
Dump station: No
Attractions near Observatory Campground: Participate in a Star Party. Visit Palomar Observatory (open daily, drive or hike 2.5 miles). Explore local hiking trails. Ride along local bicycling routes.


General Camping Information

Not all campsites can accommodate trailers or RVs of all lengths. Check carefully on the reservation site when you make your reservation to be sure your vehicle will fit your campsite.

Accessible Sites

Designated Accessible sites are usually reserved for people with disabilities who have a vehicle displaying an accessible parking placard or license plate.





Cleveland National Forest
Attractions and Activities

Visitors to the Cleveland National Forest find many great places to explore. Those camping at Observatory Campground are close to Palomar Observatory.

  • Hike 6.6 miles (round trip) to Cedar Creek Falls. The hike is of moderate difficulty. A $6 fee for each 5 people is required.
  • Try your luck fishing at Loveland Reservoir.
  • Join Star Parties at Laguna Mountain and Palomar Mountain.
  • Hike along the Pacific Crest Trail to Kitchen Creek Falls.
  • Enjoy the informative Kwaaymii Cultural Interpretive Trail.
  • Hike the 4.4-mile (round trip) Observatory Trail on Mount Palomar.
  • Ride your horse along the Barker Spur Trail from Palomar Divide Rd. to West Fork San Luis Rey River.
  • Enjoy the view from Henshaw Scenic Vista Observation Site on Highway S7.
  • relax with a picnic at San Luis Rey Picnic Site.
  • Visit San Diego County's Wilderness Gardens Preserve for scenic hiking and bird watching.

Key Observatory Campground Regulations

  1. Fires are only permitted in provided fire rings.
  2. Water: is in short supply so please conserve it.
  3. Dogs must be on leash and attended at all times.

    Check Cleveland National Forest - Observatory Campground for any campground updates.