A camping trip is a perfect thing when you need a break from the stress and worries of everyday life. Lucky for those of us who live in Southern California, we have a great selection of campgrounds to choose from. Of course, this also means that picking our next campground to visit is a challenge in itself. You can’t go wrong with any camping destination you choose, but Doane Valley Campground in Southern California is a favorite among campers for a variety of reasons. Once you’ve read about it, you may just immediately start dreaming of your next Mount Palomar camping trip!

Located in northern San Diego County, Palomar Mountain State Park is a natural wonderland that features beautiful forests and mountain meadows. It's an idyllic destination for camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, and so much more.
Virginia Hill/Flickr
Doane Valley Campground is located within the park on the west side of Palomar Mountain, not far from the park's observatory. Known for its large pine, cedar, and fir trees, the campground evokes the type of inspiring beauty that reminds you of the Sierra Nevada.
Virginia Hill/Flickr
The campground consists of 31 sites for RVs, trailers, or tents. The campground also has a campfire center, flush toilets, showers, and drinking water. Each campsite comes with a table, fire ring, grate, grill, and food storage cabinet.
Virginia Hill/Flickr
The park's elevation sits around 5,000 feet above sea level, which means that the evenings are generally quite cool, even during the summer. And with Doane Creek meandering right alongside the campground, the forest setting is as charming as can be.
Chris L/Google
Campers at Doane Valley Campground can enjoy access to the park's hiking trails and other attractions. The hike to Boucher Hill Summit is a must-do. You can also go fishing at Doane Pond, hike the Doane Nature Trail, or stop by the Palomar Mountain Observatory for a night of stargazing.
Matt Jew/Google
This gorgeous park is highly coveted by campers (for good reason), so reservations are pretty much required during peak camping season. Reservations can be made via Reserve California up to six months in advance.
Virginia Hill/Flickr
Escape to a lovely forest setting when you plan a trip to Palomar Mountain State Park. This blissful campground is calling your name! Visit the park's website to learn more about what Palomar Mountain has to offer.
Wesley Sung/Google

>Get a bird’s-eye view of this gorgeous area:

Have you stayed at this fairy tale Mount Palomar campground in the forest? This Doane Valley campground in Southern California looks like the perfect place to unwind in a beautiful setting. Share your thoughts with us in the comments! If you’re looking for more fantastic places to camp, check out these no-reservation campgrounds in Southern California.

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The Natural Beauty of Southern California

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What are the most jaw-dropping views in Southern California?

The most jaw-dropping views in Southern California include:

  • Joshua Tree National Park. The alien-looking trees in this desert landscape make it look like another planet.
  • Laguna Beach. If you walk along the cliffs you’ll see a wondrous 60-foot stone tower right by the shore.
  • Cabrillo National Monument. This is a popular vista for locals with views that overlook the idyllic San Diego harbor.
  • La Jolla Cove. The caves here are especially beautiful when seen from a kayak in the water, with wildlife all over them.

Learn more about the most jaw-dropping views in Southern California. 

What are the most incredible natural attractions in Southern California?

The most incredible natural attractions in Southern California include:

  • Shaw’s Cove. Located at Laguna Beach, this cove has intriguing tide pools and rock formations that are fun to explore.
  • Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve. You’ll find this gorgeous place just off Newport Beach.
  • Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. San Diego locals often gather here in the evenings to watch the sunset over the sea.
  • Trail Canyon Falls. This waterfall in Tujunga Canyon is as beautiful as it gets and is worth the 6-mile hike to get there.

Discover more about the most incredible natural attractions in Southern California. 

What are the best bucket list natural attractions in Southern California?

The best bucket list of natural attractions in Southern California includes:

  • Carbon Canyon Regional Park. This is a lovely place to walk among the majestic redwood trees that tower above you.
  • Portuguese Bend Reserve. This is a 339-acre expanse of hills, canyons, greenery, and abundant wildlife.
  • Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. This is a varied landscape of conifer forest, open meadows, oak canopies, and high desert.
  • Oak Glen Preserve. This is a popular local hiking area in the San Bernardino National Forest that is replete with natural beauty.’

Find out more about the best bucket list natural attractions in Southern California. 

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Doane Valley Campground, Palomar Mountain, CA 92060, USA