Campo Alto Campground
4.5137 reviewsCampo Alto Campground
$30.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season (May 1 - October 31): $30 per night for standard nonelectric sites; $150 per night for group sites; $2/weekend or holiday surcharge. Camping fee includes one vehicle and tent, trailer, or RV per site; $10 for each extra vehicle.
About this campground
Perched high in the Los Padres National Forest, Campo Alto Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking refuge from the crowds below. This intimate mountain retreat features 15 secluded single campsites and 2 group sites, each thoughtfully spaced among towering Jeffrey pines to ensure the privacy and tranquility that draws campers back season after season. As a primitive, high-altitude sanctuary operating seasonally, Campo Alto embraces the 'Pack it in, Pack it out' ethos—there's no running water, electricity, or dump stations here. Instead, you'll find something far more valuable: the rare opportunity to disconnect completely and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of California's backcountry.
Campo Alto Campground is a primitive campground with options for group camping as well as sites suitable for tents and modest-sized RVs.
Historical SignificanceCampo Alto holds secrets from a bygone era when these slopes echoed with the swoosh of skis and laughter of winter sports enthusiasts. As one longtime visitor reminisces, this was once a bustling cross-country ski resort 'many moons ago.' Today, observant campers can still discover remnants of this alpine past—weathered pulleys hanging mysteriously from ancient pines, silent witnesses to the campground's transformation from winter playground to summer sanctuary. These artifacts add an element of discovery to your stay, inviting you to piece together the mountain's evolving story.
Weather and SeasonsAt Campo Alto, the mountain weather writes its own rules, creating a dynamic climate that keeps every visit interesting. Summer days warm to a comfortable 80°F, perfect for exploring the surrounding wilderness, while nights invite you to bundle up as temperatures dip to a crisp 55°F. The elevation brings its own personality—sudden winds may sweep through camp as darkness falls, and even summer mornings often call for that favorite sweatshirt you packed 'just in case.' But these cool nights offer an extraordinary trade-off: some of the clearest, most spectacular stargazing opportunities in Southern California, where the Milky Way stretches across the sky in all its glory.
ElevationAt 8,250 feet above sea level, Campo Alto stands as one of the region's loftiest camping destinations, where the air is noticeably thinner and refreshingly crisp. This dramatic elevation doesn't just promise cooler temperatures—it delivers a complete change of perspective. From this mountain throne, the world unfolds beneath you in a tapestry of valleys and distant ranges, while the high altitude creates that particular quality of light that makes everything appear sharper, clearer, more vivid. Here, you're not just camping; you're claiming your place among the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryCampo Alto's setting reads like a landscape painter's dream journal. Ancient Jeffrey pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their vanilla-scented bark and graceful branches providing both shade and character to this 8,250-foot perch. But it's the views that steal the show—a 360-degree panorama that encompasses the golden expanse of Carrizo Plain, the rugged contours of Cuyama Valley, and the dramatic cuts of Quatal and Apache Canyons. On clear days, your gaze can travel from the agricultural tapestry of San Joaquin Valley to the wild peaks of the Sespe ranges, with Lockwood Valley nestled in between. This is California geography at its most dramatic, served up from your campsite door.
Geological RegionCampo Alto crowns the summit of Cerro Noroeste, a commanding peak in the Los Padres National Forest that serves as a natural boundary between worlds. This high-altitude ecosystem thrives in the transition zone where dense Jeffrey pine forests give way to sweeping vistas. The mountain's unique position creates a geological grandstand overlooking some of California's most diverse terrain—from the stark beauty of Carrizo Plain's grasslands to the carved canyons of Quatal and Apache, from the fertile San Joaquin Valley to the rugged wilderness of the Sespe ranges. Lockwood Valley adds its own chapter to this geological story, visible from your pine-shaded campsite. Here at Campo Alto, you're camping at the intersection of multiple California landscapes, each telling its own ancient tale of tectonic forces and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not explicitly mentioned, but some sites are described as spacious with varying distances between them.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious, with ample room for tents and modest-sized RVs. One reviewer noted that "the sites are huge and inexpensive," while another mentioned that sites "vary quite a bit. Some are close to each other, some are pretty far."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is generally good, with many sites spread out. However, some areas are close to each other, and noise can travel easily due to the silence in the area. "The sites are gorgeous and the campground is very silent," reported a user.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Site 11 is highly recommended for its seclusion." (Kaitlin P, user review).
Best Campsites"Sites 16 and 17 recommended for shade, views, and isolation." (Cory Rigali, user review). "Site 14 was awesome!" (Emily S, user review).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- 1tent, trailer, or RV per site
- $10 for each extra vehicle.
Groups
The campground has two group sites, but specific details about group size or vehicle limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout"Sites are huge and spaced apart for privacy." (Donna K, user review). "Group sites are very nice with new vault toilets." (Robert S, user review).
Open and Closed SeasonMay - November.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come-first-serve, particularly outside peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before scheduled arrival with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of reservation fees. Late cancellations incur a fee equivalent to the first night's recreation use fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is best suited for minimalistic outdoor activities such as hiking, star gazing, and wildlife viewing. Some nearby attractions, such as fishing and swimming spots, are accessible within a 30-minute drive.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Vincent Tumameit Trailhead, which provides scenic mountain vistas. "The hike toward Mt. Pinos was very nice," according to one reviewer. However, there are limited trails directly within the campground.Fishing
Fishing is available within a 30-minute drive of the campground. Specific locations and details about fish species are not provided.Swimming
Swimming areas are accessible within a 30-minute drive, but there are no swimming facilities within the campground itself.Biking
The campground is a popular spot for biking enthusiasts. "Very popular spot for bikes/motorcycles," noted a reviewer.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, including woodpeckers, squirrels, butterflies, and occasional sightings of bees or hornets. "Saw plenty of woodpeckers, squirrels, butterflies," reported one user.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Allowed only in designated fire rings. Check local fire restrictions prior to visit.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. - 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazards"Pit toilets have quite a few flies." (Cory Rigali, user review). "Noose hanging from a tree and creepy doll reported at site #3." (Aileen Torres, user review). Narrow roads and drop-offs may be hazardous for drivers.
Active alertsSome sites may be closed due to hazardous trees.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - October 31.
Trash and recyclingThe campground follows a 'Pack it in. Pack it out.' policy. Campers must bring their own garbage bags and dispose of trash off-site.
Proximity to water featuresNo water bodies within walking distance.
Common complaintsNo potable water or trash facilities. Bugs can be bothersome. Some complaints about unmaintained roads and closure randomness.
Host"Fred Rye is an awesome camp host." (Sherry Foley, user review). Camp host availability varies.
Campground Map
Driving directionsLocated off Mil Potrero Highway, approximately 3 miles west of Pine Mountain Club. On Forest Road 9N27. From I-5 take Frazier Park Mountain Park Rd in Lebec. Go west 10 miles to Mil Potrero Rd and make a right. Turn left at the Mil Potrero Ranger station (Cerro Noroeste Rd-Forest Road 9N27) and proceed 6 miles to the end. The campground is at the top of My Abel. GPS: 34.8314, -119.2095.
"The drive up/down can be intense if other people are driving at the same time. The roads are very narrow." (Cory Rigali, user review). "The road is windy, visibility is limited around turns, and drop-offs are significant." (Mandy G, user review). Roads are paved until the camp entrance, where dirt roads begin.Nearby places
Pine Mountain Club (15 miles, ~30 minutes)
Frazier Park (25 miles, ~50 minutes).
Nearby supplies
General store within 15 miles at Pine Mountain Club or 25 miles in Frazier Park for necessities such as groceries, gas, and basic supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.5
37 reviews
Campo Alto Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Campo Alto Campground generally receives positive reviews for its serene environment, scenic views, and spacious sites. Users appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the opportunity to disconnect from city life. Common concerns include the lack of potable water, the presence of flies in the vault toilets, and the occasional noise from nearby groups.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently praised the spaciousness of campsites, the peaceful and scenic environment, and the cleanliness of the vault toilets. "Great campgrounds, with a beautiful sunset spot," noted one...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the absence of potable water, pack-in/pack-out policy for trash, and the presence of flies near the vault toilets. Some users also found the road to the campground...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water, packing trash bags, and being prepared for the lack of cell service. Many suggest choosing specific campsites for better views or privacy, such as sites 16...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The summer months are popular due to moderate temperatures and clear skies. However, some sites were reported closed during certain periods due to hazardous trees. The campground remains seasonal,...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The sites are gorgeous and the campground is very silent." "The road is windy, visibility is limited around turns, and drop-offs are significant." "No water, no bear boxes, so be prepared for that."
Based on 37 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Many users highlighted specific campsites for their advantages: "I would recommend site 11, it is quite separated from all other sites," and "Site 16 or 17 based on shade, views, and isolation." Site...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not explicitly addressed in most reviews, though some sites are noted to be spacious and spread out.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users recommend bringing protective shoes for dogs due to pine needles and rough terrain. "Very dog friendly other than the old, dead pine needles off the paths."
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025