Palomar Mountain State Park

Enjoy the fresh crisp mountain air and the simplicities of nature at Palomar Mountain State Park, featuring breath-taking views of the Pacific Ocean and acres of natural forests, streams and ponds. This stunning park is the perfect site for camping, picnicking, hiking and fishing.

Natural coniferous forests cover most of the 1,862-acre state park, home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife. Southern mule deer, western gray squirrels, and raccoons are a few animals found at Palomar Mountain. The Doane Pond is also home to trout, bluegill, bullhead and channel catfish. Trout fishing is best during winter, spring and early summer.

One of the best ways to explore the park is to take the one-mile Doane Valley Nature Trail. It is an easy-walking trail, but be prepared to cross two streams and a few steep areas. Pamphlets are available to help identify the wide variety of local plants, trees and shrubs. Learn about how these plants were used by the Luiseno Indians, who used to hunt and gather at Palomar Mountain. During the summer, trail guides are available to explain more about the park’s cultural and natural history.

Elevated about 5,000 feet above sea level on the west side of Palomar Mountain, Palomar Mountain State Park is one of the only places in Southern California with a Sierra Nevada-like atmosphere. This location offers not only beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean to west, but also views of the desert to the right.

The park is comprised of 31 campsites, a picnic area, and nature trails. Campgrounds are equipped with piped drinking water, restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers. Hungry campers will enjoy the Slivercrest picnic area, with wood stoves, piped drinking water and restrooms. Whether you are looking to rough it in the wilderness or to spend a relaxing weekend in the mountains, Palomar Mountain State Park is the ideal place in San Diego for a fun outing.

- Ray Lapena