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Fry Creek Campground

3.6 (11 reviews)

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Myrchalyn A.

We love this campground despite all the 3 stars reviews i've read over. The trail next to it was nice and has great views. We did not have any bug problems nor issues with mosquitos. This is the perfect time to camp here because it is cool but not too cold and it's not hot and the sunshine just hits you right when you need a warm up. we really enjoyed the hike and the campground is clean. This is a nice place to get away from the city.

Heather W.

I was shocked that this campground didn't have its own entry on yelp, so I figured I would add it as it is a solid campground choice on Palomar Mountain (for more reviews, you can do a search within the general Palomar Mountain listing - thats where people have been putting them). Located just right around the bend from the Observatory Campground off the highway, this campground offers a few non-reservation, first-come spots, which gives some flexibility to non-planners like ourselves, who were not able to secure a reservation spot well in advance (and the system won't let you unless there is at least a week lead-time, FYI). Im talking like only 2 spots though, and as far as I gather, from April-Oct. you better come with a reservation. Just check out my map photo with all the "Rs" on it. The Observatory Campground was 100% reserved for every single space for the weekend...and we snagged the very last open spot mere minutes before other cars came around scouting. The camping gods were on our sides!!! But very lucky given it was about 5pm on Friday. We stayed in spot 14 and didn't really have any other option with that, and were thankful to even have the ability to camp at all. But 14 and 15 at the spots right on either side of the non-plumbing bathrooms. Pit toilets with venting that goes right out to your spot and with the breeze and constant use through the weekend...well I'm sure you can get the picture, or smell rather. But I will say it was momentary and by no means constant. I can't imagine purposely reserving #15 though. Camping is $15/day and standard write your stay on the envelope and payment and put in the box. Bring small bill cash or you are going to end up overpaying with $20s. They do accept checks as well (but who carries those on them anymore). Sites include a picnic table, large firepit and a BBQ stand and a leveled plot for a tent that fits maybe 6 person or smaller - definitely not those huge group tents. I have a REI hobitat and it fit nicely. I appreciate they give you a level space as thats not always the case. Our space was huge and the tent area in the far back with plenty of kinda-privacy. The area next to the bathroom has a spigot with running water for filling and cleaning items. There are also lots of trees that work perfectly to tie a hammock - so bring your hammock and ropes! You are also welcome to use dead wood for your fires, which is nice. Bringing an axe or saw would be very helpful if you want to utilize free wood. They encourage using local firewood - not bringing in outside wood. Should you want bundles of firewood, you can buy from the general store down the road. I think its $7, and hours are 9am-5pm, I believe. The general store is right next to Mother's restaurant for those desiring a meal - its a great spot to hit up breakfast before leaving (thats what we did, see my review). This is a very "on your own"small campsite and you arent going to find a host to just visit with questions or concerns. You pay what you need, follow the rules and are left along. The Cal Fire and the Parks Rec trucks drove by once, that was all I ever saw. We had some annoying loud neighbors in a large group all weekend that we just had to tune out, but thankfully didnt rage late into the night. Few things that stood compared to negative reviews on the Observatory campground: LImited bugs. We had ZERO issues with mosquitos at site 14. Even blew out my citronella candle realizing it wasn't necessary. The upper sites of Fry Creek aren't next to any water so it makes sense. The hiking area has annoying little flies but with bug spray on they hovered and never landed on me. There are large ants but they were probably the most polite ants I've seen just minding their biz and barely becoming a prob with food on table. The campground is spread out with a few in the beginning and along the road and then quite the gap as you go up the hill to the top ring where we were. This area has direct access to hiking trails for the Fry Creek loop and some more advanced exploring areas with less marked paths. We got kinda lost by managed with google earth view ;) Cell reception at the campground is iffy (at least for verizon, limited data, some cell reception, and lost connection sometimes) but was totally working within the hiking areas. Overall it was a nice campground with everything we needed for a nice weekend. And omg BIRDS! so many birds. Birds of all kinds and all sorts of calls. The mornings felt like waking up in a rainforest. There are lots of woodpeckers in this area. Really fun to see. Would come back! Hopefully in one of the areas not right next to the bathroom :)

Anastazia V.

2nd time camping on Palomar but first time at fry creek campground. We came for Memorial Day weekend and arrived on Friday morning. I randomly got site 9 the only site available when I booked a couple months prior - when we arrived we realized this site was super small and you had to park across the road (not far at all - but not convenient to unload or get stuff out of your car) but we were fortunately able to switch spots. The campground has pit toilets that were clean but by the end of the weekend they were out of toilet paper. There are a lot of trees and tons of birds! Overall it is a cool spot and I would camp here again!

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Observatory Campground

Observatory Campground

4.0(23 reviews)
0.2 mi

First time at this campground, we were here in March to scope out but it was snowing hoping that by…read morethe time we head in April the snow would be gone, and it was. Upon reading other reviews regarding about poison ivy, we didn't see any at the time but just be careful, there wasn't any bugs when I was there (April 26-28, 2024) but if you're planning on going after April, bring bug spray and mosquitos spray or candles. The campground that we reserved online was number 28, but number 29 was more secluded and privacy. It was close to the restroom which has showers on the other side BUT if you're planning on showering at night, bring a head light or a flash light, the light doesn't work in there. The handicap shower wasn't working, can't add coins and the door is jammed, you gotta pull the handle up and it only has one lock working. Bring extra toilet paper, the ranger or host wasn't there at the time and bring your own hand soap too. Shower does have running hot water by the way. There wasn't any signal for t-mobile, didn't really used my phone until we got up to the observatory which had free wifi and cleaner bathroom that has toilet seat covers. Purchased a pin (See pic). Would come back again, it was about a two hour trip to get there.

Here are some info based on days that I camped, July 14th - July 17th, at campsite #29…read more Cons ~ - 3 of 4 showers not working (these showers and toilets are the only running plumbing facilities on the campgrounds. The other toilets are dry toilets). - 1 of 4 toilets not working - overgrown weeds at some campsites - firewood not sold at this campground (general store has some for $6.99) Pros ~ - surrounded by nature at it's best - site #29 had great shade, sun too depending the time of day. - site #29 a couple of trees good for a hammock - spigots throughout the campsites - hiking trail to the observatory - reasonable camping fee - paved road and parking pad - general/gift store not far away - vegetarian restaurant next door to the general store - Palomar Observatory nearby (hours 9am-3:30pm) Don't forget to bring: Bug spray, citronella candles, a binocular, telescope and a hat that has material that covers your neck and ears. The hat is for the summer days to protect from the sun rays and gnats and mosquitos. Remedies for poison oak. Things to keep yourself and the kids entertained, for this campground solely offers hiking trails and natures beauty for you to enjoy. Lastly, a positive attitude. You are in the middle of nature and it's elements. My experience: Campsite #29 I came here based on a friend who did a solo camp here and suggested it to be a good place. She came during spring break so water filled the creek as to when I camped, some creeks were dried out or you could hear or see a trickle. It was hot, so flying bugs such as gnats and mosquitoes were present and sometimes they would disappear for a period. Bring your bug spray, candle and hat. The camp host even had a bug zapper paddle, too funny! Because I arrived on a Sunday, late afternoon the campsite was quiet. I'd say maybe 5-6 campsites were in use. So it was quiet. There were two trees at my campsite perfect to set up my hammock. The Oak tree has a large base so I would bring a total of 3 straps to use for one hammock. I had my changing/shower tent. I used it as both this time since I wasn't pleased with the looks of the shower. Plus the camp host told me that the showers (coin op) were thrashed from the July 4th crowd. Parts were broken, and repair orders were still waiting to done. On a hike with some of my friends and their dogs we did encounter a baby snake. We're assuming in was non venomous as we looked from a distance. It was hard to determine because it was on top of leaves. Just below my campsite, a slight slope, there is a creek. You could hear the water trickling. You had to peer through the trees and shrubs to actually see it. I didn't not attempt to go down the slope, looked very tricky. This is were my night visitor greeted me one evening as I lay on my cot looking up at the stars. I sat up and turned on my headlamp to see a raccoon. I got up and it backed away slowly. I peeked down towards the creek and I saw a baby follow behind. So the water will attract critters. So these are some of the important things I thought I should mention. I would love to come back and experience a campground full of campers, Happy Campers that is, but I did enjoy the quiet very, very much. Enjoy!

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Observatory Campground
Observatory Campground
Observatory Campground

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Palomar Mountain State Park - Mariposa lily

Palomar Mountain State Park

4.4(91 reviews)
1.6 mi

A beautiful state park and such amazing campgrounds. There are a few campground options, but during…read moremy recent visit, we stayed at the Doane Valley Campground. It was very easy to book ahead online and pay for our daily parking pass once we checked-in. The campsite itself is tucked into the forest, very high up on Palomar Mountain. We found it easy to park our one SUV at our campsite and pitch our tents. The sites do have water, tables, and food boxes. The bathrooms were kept quite nice and tidy. We were all very impressed with the simple but clean and well maintained facilities. We did do a dog friendly hike that starts in the Doane Valley Campground and it's about 4 miles round trip. We had a lovely hike with a decent amount of incline along with beautiful weather. They also have a lovely stop/view area at the beginning of the campgrounds with picnic tables. Palomar mountain is great for camping, hiking, a nice Sunday cruise up the mountain for the beauty, etc. Cell phone service is spotty up there so make sure to either download your map ahead of time or use satellite service.

WARNING Do not…read moreattempt to drive on Nate Harrison Road unless your vehicle can handle off-road conditions. It is not paved and has many dangerous sections for cars not equipped for them. Take 76 and S Grade Road instead. Phone reception is limited on the mountain. I strongly suggest downloading maps before you visit. The park headquarters is quite small and it doesn't seem like it is continually staffed. Make sure you have plenty of fuel. Bring lots of water. Keep in mind that it may be hotter on the mountain than the temperature at sea level. We didn't see any potable water during a recent visit. As long as you're well-prepared, you will enjoy this beautiful park. Have fun and stay safe.

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Palomar Mountain State Park
Palomar Mountain State Park
Palomar Mountain State Park

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La Jolla Indian Campground

La Jolla Indian Campground

3.0(346 reviews)
4.5 mi

Our stay at La Jolla Indian Campground was nothing short of amazing! This was by far our absolute…read morefavorite place we have ever camped. The campground is incredibly beautiful, well-maintained, and spotless. From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by how welcoming and well kept everything was. What truly made our experience exceptional was the staff. Every employee we encountered was friendly and helpful, but Brian especially stood out. He was incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and eager to share information about the campground and surrounding activities. His recommendations helped us make the most of our trip and made navigating the area so much easier. We had an absolute blast tubing down the beautiful river, and there was no shortage of fun for the whole family. The splash pad will be a huge hit when we come back with the kids, and the spacious campsites right along the water made for the perfect camping experience. We also had the pleasure of speaking with John, one of the managers, who was equally kind, courteous, and helpful. It is clear that the staff truly care about their guests and take pride in making every visit memorable. La Jolla Indian Campground is truly a hidden gem. Between the stunning scenery, clean facilities, amazing river access, and outstanding staff, it exceeded all of our expectations. We cannot wait to come back and create even more memories here. Highly recommend!

Where to begin. Stayed there last weekend in my 30 foot travel trailer. First the good (and only…read moregood). RV spots are pretty level and easy to get in. That's all. The bad. Tow my RV with a Ram 2500 diesel. The wife was coming up Saturday to stay a few hours and hang with the kids. She drove the hour and a half. Got to the gate and she was told that she couldn't stay, that they were full and no day use passes were being sold. I tried to explain I paid $200+ for my camp spot (which was big enough for three rvs) and could easily have her park well within my spot. They denied that and said no, she could park off in overflow and walk down. But they did say if she wanted to stay the night she could pay $25 extra. WTF. We just took her to lunch and she went home. There is a nice river flowing through the camp. Nice if you don't mind sharing it with thousands of people tent camping on top of each other. There were more tattoos and foul language floating around. Not to mention loud tent camper music, car alarms, yelling up until 10pm and then immediately at 7am again. Disgusting groups. They apparently have no limits on tent campers parking all over but RV spaces are limited to one rig and a pull vehicle. Amenities? Yeah right. Pool was closed, water splash pad was closed, bathrooms flooded and muddy, and lines to use them (especially showers). In the evening the only fun we had was watching the trashy people wait in line to use a nasty bathroom and shower -20-30 people deep at times. They even took the liberty to park in front of our trailer and vehicle so we couldn't leave. Thanks. This is the only campground I've ever been at where three tribal police officers patrol full time because the people staying there are ... trashy. Great concept for a campground but the clientele have totally messed this up. Stay at your own risk.

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La Jolla Indian Campground - Lots of oak tree and boulders to climb! Behind me is poison oak-don't touch it!

Lots of oak tree and boulders to climb! Behind me is poison oak-don't touch it!

La Jolla Indian Campground
La Jolla Indian Campground - Our set up was superb

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Our set up was superb

Oak Grove Campground - New stove!

Oak Grove Campground

4.3(32 reviews)
5.8 mi

This campground is nestled on the backside of Palomar Mountain…read more The name "oak grove" holds its value - the entire campground has tons of oak trees which create a lot of shade. we stayed in site #38 and it was perfect for our car with 17ft trailer. there was enough room for another car! The site space was huge, definitely able to accommodate 3+ tents. The sites are spread out enough so you don't feel like you're right on top of each other, which was great. They don't sell firewood at the camp, so make sure you bring some, or visit the market about 5 miles down the road. You'll pass a cute Bar (Garage 79) and a nice vineyard (Hawk Watch), which are worth a stop. Directly across the street is the Oak Grove Trailhead which was about 5 miles roundtrip up to the service road and back. The hike has great views! I really enjoyed this campground for a quick weekend getaway.

What a hidden gem! Oak Grove Campground is just outside of Warner Springs in the Cleveland National…read moreForest, and an absolute STEAL at $15 a night for tent camping. Each campsite comes with a fire pit, picnic table, and BBQ and wood fires are allowed. The campsites are close together and there isn't a lot of tree cover to give the illusion of privacy. Some campsites are better than others but all in all this was a great weekend getaway and the stargazing is unreal. Sites 49 and 51 on the Ribbonwood loop looked to be my favorites and I'll definitely book one of them next time. There aren't showers at this campground but there are flushing pit toilets and running water to wash hands and dishes. I wasn't able to find anyplace to throw out trash, so we wound up driving out with it to dispose of later. The host doesn't sell fire wood, but some can be purchased about 5 minutes down the road at the Rainbow Farms Market. ($7.99/bundle of pine.)

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Oak Grove Campground - Sunset aglow behind the tent

Sunset aglow behind the tent

Oak Grove Campground - Campground 45 with a view of the bathroom

Campground 45 with a view of the bathroom

Oak Grove Campground - Campground 45 with the trees in the background

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Campground 45 with the trees in the background

William Heise County Park - Picnic table at site 19.

William Heise County Park

4.1(178 reviews)
27.0 mi

This place fills up fast but we booked several months out and were able to choose our campsites…read morebased on proximity to the dumpsters, bathrooms, and even based on whether the sites had shade. We reserved campsites 89 and 90. Campsites were about $37 per night, after the reservation fee, and could fit a maximum of eight people in two tents. Several of us had car set-ups and when we called the reservation office, they confirmed that sleeping in the car wouldn't count towards the two tent limit. Each site also has two dedicated parking spots. If you have additional cars, it'll be $6 per car/night and there's overflow parking scattered around the campground. Quiet hours start at 10PM and all campfires must be out (no embers) by 11PM. The bathrooms were fine, considering this was a campground. Showers are coin-operated and you can get 4 minutes for 50 cents. Make sure to exchange your cash at the ranger station before the sun sets! From my friend group, I heard mixed reviews on the showers. It seemed like the girl's side had poor water pressure and usually was cold. But both times I showered, I had decent pressure and the water eventually turned warm. There's also potable water throughout the campground, with a specific spout with filtered water (for taste). Our campsites were pretty great especially site 90. It's flat and right under a huge tree so it was the perfect spot to hang out and escape the sun. For tents, the ground was kind of rocky so make sure to bring a pad or air mattress if you can. Each site comes with a table and a fire pit. For firewood, you have to purchase from the campground because they don't want you to accidentally introduce any invasive species. Overall, great campsite with decent bathrooms! We didn't get a chance to explore the campground and the trails around it so I would love to come back one day. Oh and dogs are allowed as long as they're on a leash!

First time at this campground! It's been a while since I've been camping, but this campground seems…read moreto be much nicer compared to what I remember from campgrounds I've been to in the past. The bathrooms were clean and fully stocked with toilet paper and free tampons on the women's side. There were 2 men's and 2 women's showers at the bathroom closest to our site. One of the women's showers didn't have the best water pressure and sprayed more of a mist...but the other was fine. Neither appeared to have warm water, but it wasn't freezing either, so it was bearable. We heard the men's showers did have warm water though. Showers were 50 cents for 4 minutes, and then you could add additional quarters to add on 2 minutes each. There were spigots and bottle refill stations too near the campsites. I'd probably avoid the sites right next to the restrooms unless you want to hear toilets flushing, the loud hand dryer, and foot traffic throughout the night.  There were plenty of trees so most of the campsites around us at least had at least some shade during the daytime. The only issue I really noticed was that some campgrounds were pretty close together so you will probably hear noise from neighboring sites. There was plenty of parking too, but these were also close to the sites, so one night we heard the sound of cars constantly locking throughout the night. Not the biggest issue though and you should probably bring earplugs while camping if you're a light sleeper. Overall, these campgrounds are nicer than a lot of other ones I've been there where you have to drive into town to shower. The tradeoff though is that with the nicer facilities and proximity to neighboring sites, it doesn't feel as remote and sort of feels like you're one step away from civilization. So maybe not the best place to camp if you're looking for a more true camping experience.

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William Heise County Park - Valentine's gift from one teardrop gal to another.

Valentine's gift from one teardrop gal to another.

William Heise County Park - Loved the snow!

Loved the snow!

William Heise County Park - Snow fun, thanks to my friend Anne's gadget find!

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Snow fun, thanks to my friend Anne's gadget find!

Fry Creek Campground - campgrounds - Updated July 2026

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