Palomar Mountain State Park
Escape to a cool, forested mountain paradise with diverse hiking trails, serene ponds, and panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Palomar Mountain State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to a cool, forested mountain paradise with diverse hiking trails, serene ponds, and panoramic views.
"A great escape from the rat race, offering peaceful hikes and stunning mountain scenery."
Pack Smart for Camping
Tent camping during rain is tough unless experienced. Bring tarps & check forecasts!
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is poor. Download maps before you go to navigate easily.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Doane Pond
Doane Valley
A serene spot for picnics and gentle strolls, surrounded by lush greenery. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
Boucher Fire Tower
Boucher Hill
Hike or drive up for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. A great photo opportunity.
Forest Trails
Various trailheads
Explore diverse ecosystems, from pine forests to mountain meadows. Trails range from easy loops to challenging treks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Prepare for Limited Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Smart for Camping
Tent camping during rain is tough unless experienced. Bring tarps & check forecasts!
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is poor. Download maps before you go to navigate easily.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Some trails are steep, especially near Doane Pond. Hiking boots are recommended.
Self-Pay Entrance Fee
A $10 fee is required. Rangers do ticket, so pay at the kiosk.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Smart for Camping
Tent camping during rain is tough unless experienced. Bring tarps & check forecasts!
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is poor. Download maps before you go to navigate easily.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Some trails are steep, especially near Doane Pond. Hiking boots are recommended.
Self-Pay Entrance Fee
A $10 fee is required. Rangers do ticket, so pay at the kiosk.
Enjoy the Forest Vibe
Experience a Sierra Nevada-like atmosphere with large pine, fir, and cedar trees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Palomar Mountain State Park for its refreshing mountain atmosphere, diverse hiking trails, and serene Doane Pond. It's a highly recommended escape from the coastal heat, offering a taste of Sierra Nevada-like forests. However, be prepared for limited amenities, spotty cell service, and the need to pack all your own food.
"I generally come here several times a year driving from North County. It's a great, secluded spot for those wanting to get to the mountains and see vegetation like that at Idyllwild or Big Bear Lake / Arrowhead but don't want to drive 2 or 3 hours to get there.
The pictures I've used for this review are from my April 26th / 27th overnight camping trip when it was foggy/rainy. Not the best sleeping/camping experience in itself (not knowing how to hang up a tarp to be used a a rain guard while setting up a tent, Fry's Creek camp lot itself was on a bit of a slope, clothes were a bit damper than I thought etc.) but the actual hiking in Palomar itself during this time was a nice experience. Also felt like I was in Oregon/Washington at times for some reason, despite never being there.
While venturing out here be mindful of several things to make your stay enjoyable:
1. Try not to tent camp during ANY chance of rain, even if it's only supposed to be less than a quarter inch - Unless you're already experienced in properly setting up a tent site when it's raining
2. Poor cell phone coverage in the general area.
3. Lack of eating options save for the one general store at the crossroads
4. Motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts love to drive up and down the S6 - South Grade Road. Be on the lookout when driving up and down from that road.
5. Hiking boots or hiking sticks are recommended as some of the trails can be quite steep, especially those near Doane Pond"
Grant Osborne
"Finally made it here on a beautiful sunny cool day! At the entrance there is a self pay kiosk. We paid $10. Make sure you pay! They do have a ranger that tickets. It's a beautiful place well worth the cost.
At the entrance I grabbed a hiking trails flyer since that is what I came to do. Several of them and nothing over 1.5 miles unless you want to connect other shorter trails. I did most of them except for a short spur one.
It was amazing being in the deep forest, meandering through meadows, the historic Weir Lookout was peaceful and beautiful. After that caught the sunrise by the historic fire tower and lookout as the sun set over the ocean. It was wonderful! A great escape from the rat race.
They also have a campground with showers I noted."
Mamie Zembal
"A quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the hustling bustle. Make this journey into the mountains and lose yourself in the nature the moment you enter. You never ever wanna let it go. Whether it's a trail run after work or a picnic with the crew, you can find something to do you."
David Ayres
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palomar Mountain State Park is about an hour and a half drive from San Diego. The most popular route is via the S6 - South Grade Road, which is a scenic but winding road. Be mindful of motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts who frequent this route.
Public transportation options to Palomar Mountain State Park are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
The S6 - South Grade Road is a common route, offering beautiful views. However, it's a winding road, so drive cautiously.
Road conditions can change, especially during winter months. It's advisable to check local road reports before your visit.
Palomar Mountain State Park is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Los Angeles, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically $10 per vehicle. There is a self-pay kiosk at the entrance, and rangers do patrol to issue tickets.
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. Specific campground hours may vary. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
Reservations are not typically required for day use. However, for camping, especially during peak seasons or weekends, reservations are highly recommended.
While the park gates may close at sunset, campers can usually access their reserved sites after dark. Day-use visitors should plan to leave before sunset.
Information on discounts for seniors, disabled visitors, or annual passes is best obtained directly from the California State Parks website or by contacting the park office.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Doane Pond loop, Weir Trail, and the Doane Valley Nature Trail. For more challenging hikes, consider connecting trails for longer loops. The Boucher Fire Tower Loop is also a great option. +1
Yes, Palomar Mountain State Park offers camping, including Doane Valley Campground. It's a great spot for a weekend getaway with a cool, mountain atmosphere. 
The park's diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and other forest creatures.
Yes, trout fishing is available at Doane Pond.
The park is situated at approximately 5,000 feet in elevation, offering cooler temperatures than the surrounding lowlands.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are very limited dining options within the park itself. The general store at the crossroads offers some basic supplies, but it's best to pack your own food and drinks.
For a wider selection of food, you'll need to drive back down the mountain towards nearby towns. Packing a picnic is highly recommended for your visit.
Absolutely! There are designated picnic areas, especially around Doane Pond, making it a perfect spot for a scenic lunch.
Sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water are ideal for a day trip. If camping, plan your meals accordingly and bring non-perishable items.
Yes, there is a general store located at the crossroads, offering some basic necessities.
📸 📸 Photography
Doane Pond offers beautiful reflections and lush scenery. The Boucher Fire Tower provides panoramic vistas, and the dense forests create a magical atmosphere.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. The foggy conditions can also create unique, moody shots.
While the Palomar Observatory is nearby, it's a separate facility. The State Park offers its own scenic views, but direct access or photography of the observatory grounds from within the park might be restricted.
The Boucher Hill Lookout and the area around the Boucher Fire Tower offer excellent vantage points for capturing the mountain landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forests and meadows. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many of the hiking trails are relatively short and manageable for families, allowing kids to explore the beautiful forests and meadows without becoming overly fatigued.
Packing plenty of snacks and water is key, as dining options are limited. 🏕️ Budget Travelers & Campers
+1To maximize savings, pack all your own food and drinks. This avoids relying on the limited and potentially pricier general store.
🚗 Day-Trippers
Focus your visit on key highlights like Doane Pond for a relaxing picnic and gentle walk, or hike to the Boucher Fire Tower for impressive views. +1Be sure to download offline maps as cell service is unreliable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Adventures in Palomar Mountain State Park
+1For a rewarding experience, consider the Boucher Fire Tower Loop, which offers stunning panoramic views after a moderate hike.
Redditors often recommend combining shorter trails to create custom loops, allowing for a more personalized exploration of the park's natural beauty. Remember to wear appropriate hiking boots as some paths can be steep, and always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Some visitors have noted that certain trails might be gated or less maintained, so it's wise to check with park staff or local hiking groups for the latest trail conditions.
The park's elevation also means cooler temperatures, making it an ideal escape for a refreshing hike away from the coastal heat. Camping at Palomar Mountain
+1 It's an excellent option for those seeking a mountain getaway without a long drive from San Diego. When planning your camping trip, be aware that cell phone coverage is limited in the area, so it’s best to download any necessary maps or information beforehand.
Campers should be prepared for limited amenities. While there are showers, packing all your food and essentials is crucial, as dining options are scarce.
The Unique Ecosystem of Palomar Mountain
+1This distinct environment supports a variety of plant and animal life. Visitors can wander through mountain meadows and admire the diverse flora. The park's cooler climate and varied terrain contribute to its rich biodiversity, making it a haven for both local wildlife and visiting nature enthusiasts.
The presence of these specific tree species is a key characteristic that draws visitors seeking a different kind of natural beauty in the region. The park's ecosystem also influences its recreational opportunities. The shaded trails are perfect for hiking even on warmer days, and the presence of Doane Pond adds another natural element to the landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit