Tips to enjoy your visit
For your convenience, comfort and safety...

  • Cell phone coverage is spotty at best in the park as well as on the entire mountain. If you're desperate for cell phone coverage, go to Boucher Summit (site of the fire tower and lookout) or Silvercrest Picnic Area. Here's a map.

  • Note that there are no gas stations on Palomar Mountain.

  • Unless you're driving a rugged vehicle, it's best not to attempt to come up Nate Harrison Grade because its condition is unpredictable, especially during the rainy season.

  • Bring cash or check. The park doesn't take credit cards, and the nearest ATM is 4 miles back. If you have to self register, note that the entrance fee for day use is $8.00 per vehicle.

  • Go here for information about bringing dogs and other pets to the park.

  • In the summer gnats can be a problem, so bring bug repellent during warm weather.

  • Check weather conditions and come prepared. During seasonal changes (spring to summer, fall to winter) always bring a sweater or jacket even if you don't think you'll need it. You can always just leave it in the car. The weather on the summit has a way of changing, and it's not uncommon for the forecast to show mild temperatures or no precipitation, but for lower elevations only. The park may be covered by a cloud while the valley is sunny, but you won't know that til after you've left home without extra clothing.

  • Mountain lions and rattlesnakes are sporadically sighted in the park. Make enough noise so wild animals can hear you; they'll be happy to escape if you give them a chance. Watch where you put your feet. Rattlesnakes like to hang around in the shade of rocks, logs and bushes.

  • Follow basic safety guidelines for minimizing mountain lion encounters and what to do if you do come across a mountain lion. Stay calm if you come upon a lion. Talk firmly to it. Move slowly, never run away or turn your back on it. Do all you can to appear larger. Raise your arms, open your jacket if you are wearing one. Do not crouch or bend over. Do not approach a mountain lion, especially one that is feeding or with kittens. Please report any sightings of mountain lions to the ranger or park staff.


  • Bring water! There are no water fountains along the trails. You will find water in the campgrounds, from bathroom lavatories and from spigots on the outside of the bathrooms.

  • Hike with a partner, carry a map.

  • Let family or friends know where you are going and when you should be back. You might even want to give them an extra copy of the map and indicate what trails you intend to take.

  • Stay on designated trails.

  • Travel in the daylight. Get an early start.

  • Know your physical limitations. And remember, you're a mile above sea level, probably not what you're used to.

  • If you do get lost, STAY IN ONE PLACE. Do not go further. Kids, remember to HUG A TREE. We will find you!

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, CALL 911! If you don't have service on the mountain, find the ranger or camp host.
THINGS TO DO:     HIKING     PICNICKING     FISHING     CAMPING     FEATURES & SITES OF INTEREST
BOUCHER HILL & HISTORIC FIRE TOWER     SPECIAL EVENTS     TIPS TO ENJOY YOUR VISIT     CHECK THE WEATHER
Picture Friends of Palomar Mountain State Park, a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable association, California Registry of Charitable Trusts CT0210608
Proudly powered by Weebly