12
Total Campsites
Campground
12
Reservable Sites
Check by phone
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About FRY CREEK CAMPGROUND
Overview Fry Creek Campground is situated in the heart of Cleveland National Forest, uniquely located down the road from the world-famous Palomar Observatory. The fresh, clean air of the campground provides a refreshing getaway for visitors from San Diego and Los Angeles. The observatory, atop Palomar Mountain, boasts five high-tech telescopes, among them, the massive 200-inch Hale Telescope, was the world's largest effective telescope for about 45 years. The observatory is owned by the California Institute of Technology and astronomical research includes near-Earth asteroids and the study of distant galaxies. Recreation At Observatory Campground, the site across from Fry Creek, there's a popular astronomy event called Explore the Stars. Amateur astronomers gather here with their telescopes and share views of planets and constellations with visitors. The event takes place one weekend each month, April through October. Facilities At Observatory Campground, the site across from Fry Creek, there's a popular astronomy event called Explore the Stars. Amateur astronomers gather here with their telescopes and share views of planets and constellations with visitors. The event takes place one weekend each month, April through October. Natural Features Fry Creek is at a 4,900 ft. elevation on Palomar Mountain. The area is dense with evergreen and oak, and is usually cooler than the surrounding area. Nearby Attractions The visitor center at Palomar Observatory is 2.2 miles away and can be accessed by road or by hiking trail. A restaurant and gift shop are onsite.
- 12 total campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (12).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes FRY CREEK CAMPGROUND special
Fry Creek Campground occupies a peaceful hillside setting on Palomar Mountain within the Cleveland National Forest of Southern California, offering a quieter alternative to the nearby Observatory Campground while still placing you within easy reach of the legendary Palomar Observatory. The campground is shaded by a handsome mix of black oaks, incense cedars, and Coulter pines, and the elevation keeps temperatures pleasantly mild even when the valleys below are sweltering. Fry Creek itself trickles through the area during wetter months, adding a gentle soundtrack to your stay. Trails in the surrounding forest are excellent for hiking and mountain biking, and a short drive takes you to panoramic overlooks where the views can stretch all the way to the Pacific. After dark, the mountaintop's distance from urban light pollution turns the sky into a dazzling display — bring binoculars or a telescope and make the most of some of the best stargazing in Southern California. Spring wildflower season and crisp autumn weekends are particularly inviting, though summer remains popular with families escaping the heat. Fry Creek is perfect for campers who love a natural, unhurried setting with a touch of astronomical wonder. Whether you are a weekend hiker, a devoted birder, or simply someone who craves cool mountain air, this campground delivers a refreshing retreat.
Campsite Inventory
12 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
12
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
BBQ
Yes
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
2:00 PM
Check-out time
12:00 PM
Condition Rating
Good
Driveway Grade
Slight
Driveway length (ft)
10, 12
Driveway surface
Paved
Fire Pit
Yes
GRILLS
Yes
Hike In Distance to Site
10, 15, 20, 30
Location Rating
Good
Max guests
8
Max vehicle length (ft)
10, 12
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Picnic Table
Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
7607880250
Getting There
From Los Angeles, CA: head south on I-15 Fwy, go east on Hwy 76 for approximatley 20 miles, turn left onto South Grade Rd. (S6), follow South Grade up to the top of Palomar Mountain. Once at the top, turn left to continue on South Grade Rd/ Canfield Rd. Continue for approximately 2.5 miles and turn left into Fry Creek Campground, approximatley 0.25 miles past Observatory Campground. From San Diego, CA: Head north on I-15 Fwy, go east on Hwy 76 for approximatley 20 miles, turn left onto South Grade Rd. (S6), follow South Grade up to the top of Palomar Mountain. Once at the top, turn left to continue on South Grade Rd/ Canfield Rd. Continue for approximately 2.5 miles and turn left into Fry Creek Campground, approximatley 0.25 miles past Observatory Campground.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to FRY CREEK CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for FRY CREEK CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for FRY CREEK CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at FRY CREEK CAMPGROUND?
FRY CREEK CAMPGROUND currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (12).
Where is FRY CREEK CAMPGROUND located?
FRY CREEK CAMPGROUND is in California near Palomar Mountain. Coordinates: 33.3450, -116.8800.
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