The beautiful forest and mountain meadows of Palomar Mountain State Park are in northern San Diego County, high atop the west side of Palomar Mountain. Large pine, fir and cedar trees make the park one of the few areas in southern California with a Sierra Nevada-like atmosphere. The park features camping, picnicking, hiking, and fishing (trout) in Doane Pond. Coniferous forests cover much of the 1,862 acres, in contrast to the dry lowlands surrounding the mountain.
Elevation within the park averages 5,000 feet above sea level, making evenings cool even during the summer. A number of vista points offer spectacular panoramic views both westerly toward the ocean and inland toward the desert, particularly from Boucher Hill Summit, which has been listed in the Sierra Club's "Hundred Peaks Section" since first published in 1946. There, you'll also find the historic Boucher Hill Fire Lookout.
RECREATION
Camping— Doane Valley Campground has 31 family campsites. Each site has a table, fire ring, barbecue, and food locker. Restrooms and piped drinking water are available nearby.
Group Campgrounds —The Cedar Grove Group Campground has three areas for groups. Group Camp #1 is suitable for trailers and camper vans up to 21 feet in length and up to 25 people; two other group sites can accommodate up to 15 people for tent camping only.
Fishing—Fishing is available year round at Doane Pond with a valid California fishing license. Fishing hours are 6 a.m. to sunset.
Picnicking—Silvercrest picnic area features shaded picnic tables, barbecue pits, and restrooms.
Hiking—Palomar Mountain State Park has multiple hiking trails of varying difficulties. Please consult the map for hiking routes, use caution, and stay on the trails.
OVERNIGHT FACILITIES
Family Campsites
Group Campsites
RV Access
TRAIL USE
Hiking Trails
DAY-USE ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES
Historical/Cultural Site
Picnic Areas
Env. Learning/Visitor Center
Fishing
Interpretive Exhibits
Vista Point
Geocaching
