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 suitable for RV camping and tent camping., Six 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.
| 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. |
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.
Designated Accessible sites are usually reserved for people with disabilities who have a vehicle displaying an accessible parking placard or license plate.
Visitors to the Cleveland National Forest find many great places to explore. Those camping at Observatory Campground are close to Palomar Observatory.
Check Cleveland National Forest - Observatory Campground for any campground updates.
