MT. Pinos Campground
Los Padres National Forest
Mount Pinos or in the Native American Chumash language, "Iwihinmu," was considered to be the center of the world, the point where everything was in balance. At 7,800 feet, the campground, bursting with views of mountains and valleys, is an ideal base for several biking and hiking trails. The dark and clear night skies make this a picture-perfect stargazing setting.
This seasonal campground is open daily, May through November. There are 19 single campsites that include picnic tables and fire rings. Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings. RVs over 22 ft. and trailers are not recommended. There are two vault toilets. You should plan to be completely self-sustainable for the duration of your trip. There is no potable water (drinking water) or electricity onsite. There is also no dump station.
Need to Know
In order to contact our offices, please use the email: customerservice@pmcparks.com or view our website: CampOne.Com for answers to frequently asked questions.
Camping fee includes 1 vehicle and 1 tent, trailer or RV site. $10 fee for each extra vehicle.
- No drinking water is available.
- Pets are allowed.
- No public showers in the region.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. - 8 a.m.
- This facility is 'Pack it in. Pack it out.'
- Fireworks are prohibited at all times.
- The nearest stores and gas are 19 miles in Frazier Park.
- Some cell service can be found in the campground.
- Mt Pinos Campground is at 7,800 elevation. Even in the summer the nights can be cold.
- The road through the campground is narrow in places and it is not recommended for trailers or vehicles over 22' in length.
- Very limited parking inside the facility for extra vehicles.
- Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating.
- 2 night minimum stay on weekends.
- 3 night minimum stay on holidays.
- Click here for more information on Los Padres National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
Natural Features
Along with views of the Lockwood Valley and Frazier Mountain, Mt. Pinos Campground is best appreciated by camping enthusiasts who prefer being nestled within the shaded enclave of Jeffery pines that dominate the scenery.
Nearby Attractions
Hiking trails, biking, fishing and swimming are all within 30 minutes of the campground. Restaurants, gas and shopping are within 15 miles at Pine Mountain Club or 19 miles in Frazier Park. Lake of the Woods and Frazier Park are about 10 miles to the east. Lockwood Valley and Cuddy Valley are located at the base of Mt. Pinos.
Recreation
Ride your bicycle to the top of Mount Pinos or hike the Mount Pinos Trail, McGill exploration trail, or enjoy the views of the valleys below from your campsite.
Mount Pinos is considered to be one of the best star gazing locations in California due to its dark skies, extremely low light pollution and frequently clear skies. It is a favorite place for amateur astronomers. On a clear day, you can see the entire San Joaquin Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Contact Information
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Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 805 434 1996
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Take I-5 north to Frazier Mountain Park Road exit. Go west on Frazier Mountain Park Road for 7 miles to the intersection of Lockwood Valley Rd. Keep right and proceed on Cuddy Valley Road. Continue 5 miles to the "Y" in the road and veer left. Proceed 7 more miles past the first snow and second snow gate past McGill Campground.
Available Campsites
- Site 13, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 18, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 09, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 08, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 04, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 10, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 17, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 01, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 14, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 05, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 11, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 15, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 12, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 07, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 06, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 16, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 19, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 03, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 02, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
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