Chuchupate Campground
4.3430 reviewsChuchupate Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard fee for non-electric campsites during peak season is $30 per night, with $2 additional charges on weekends and holidays. User reviews mention $20 per night self-pay for up to 2 cars and 8 people max.
About this campground
Tucked away in the high desert near Tejon Pass, Chuchupate Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This remote sanctuary delivers sweeping panoramic vistas and the kind of profound quiet that only comes from true solitude. Whether you're navigating rugged trails on your OHV, exploring hidden hiking paths, or simply lying beneath one of California's most spectacular night skies, Chuchupate offers the perfect basecamp for those who prefer their camping experiences untamed and unforgettable.
Chuchupate Campground supports tent camping and RV camping for vehicles under 24 feet. Group camping is not explicitly provided, and this is a 'dry' campground with minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceThe melodic name 'Chuchupate' echoes through the centuries, gifted to this land by the Chumash people who knew these mountains intimately. The word describes the California rock parsnip, also known as celery weed, which still grows wild among the rocks and meadows – a living connection to the indigenous peoples who first called this dramatic landscape home.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bring the warmth of the high desert sun to exposed campsites, while evenings surprise visitors with refreshingly cool temperatures that call for cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. Spring and fall offer the sweet spot of comfortable daytime temperatures perfect for exploration. Be prepared to share your summer adventures with the local yellow jackets and flies – they're part of the authentic outdoor experience that keeps this gem wonderfully uncrowded.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,300 feet, Chuchupate sits high enough to escape the valley heat while offering crisp, star-filled nights that can catch unprepared campers off guard. Even in the heart of summer, you'll want to pack layers – the thin mountain air cools quickly once the sun dips behind the ridgeline, transforming warm afternoons into evenings that demand fleece jackets and hot cocoa.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of hardy scrub-oak, fragrant manzanita, and ancient pinyon pines creates a uniquely Californian landscape that bursts into spectacular color each late spring. Matilija poppies unfurl their tissue-paper petals alongside fiery Indian paintbrush and purple lupine carpets, creating a photographer's paradise that rivals any cultivated garden.
Geological RegionThis high desert jewel occupies a dramatic perch near historic Tejon Pass, where pinyon pines and scrub-oak frame breathtaking views across Lockwood Valley. On clear days, lucky visitors catch glimpses of mighty Frazier Mountain and the distant Tehachapi range – geological giants that remind us of the powerful forces that shaped this rugged terrain. The panoramic vistas from camp reveal layer upon layer of mountain ridges fading into the horizon, each one telling its own ancient story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNull
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and suitable for multiple tents or RVs under 24 feet.
Sites PrivacySites offer ample space between each other, but privacy can vary depending on shade and positioning.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor summer visits, select shaded sites and prepare insect deterrents. Sites near vault toilets may have odor issues under certain wind conditions.
Best CampsitesSite 23 is noted for being flat and ideal for tent camping. Site 24 offers good shade and space.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in information is not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out information is not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per site as stated in user reviews.
Groups
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo loops with spaciously arranged campsites. Narrow roads and challenging angles limit accessibility for large vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen daily from May through November.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available online through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is mentioned during non-reservable periods. Self-service registration is available at the campground gates.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date for a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees. Fees for late cancellations include forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities include hiking, star gazing, off-road vehicle riding, and biking. The area is known for its 'Dark Sky' element, making it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. Several trails around the campground provide scenic views and immersive nature experiences.
Hiking
The Frazier Mountain Trail offers challenging hiking with panoramic views of Lockwood Valley. The lower half is exposed and hot during summer, while the upper portion is shaded. Other trails nearby are easily accessible.Biking
Biking trails and terrain are accessible within minutes of the campground.Water Sports
Advice and activities related to water sports are not applicable given the lack of water sources on-site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in designated fire rings. Fire restrictions may apply, including propane-only usage during fire danger periods.
- Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include snakes, insects like yellow jackets and flies, rocky terrain, and narrow, rough roads. Visitors are advised to hike with caution and carry safety gear.
Active alertsFire restrictions may include propane-only cooking during high fire danger periods. Roads may be closed during certain times.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.9 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
Emergency services information is not explicitly stated. Visitors are advised to carry a first aid kit and safety gear as help for emergencies is miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 to October 31 annually.
Trash and recyclingNo trash bins are available; pack out all waste. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo natural water sources within the campground.
Common complaintsComplaints include deteriorated vault toilets, insufficient shade at many campsites, and road conditions with potholes and narrow lanes.
HostRangers are not frequently seen onsite according to user reviews.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Los Angeles: Take I-5 north past the Gorman exit to Frazier Mountain Park Road exit. Go west on Frazier Mountain Park Road for 7 miles to the intersection of Lockwood Valley Road. Turn left and proceed 3 miles to Frazier Mountain Road (FS 8N04). Proceed 3 miles past the Chuchupate Ranger Station.
The paved road up to the campground is narrow (one lane only) in places and is not recommended for long trailers or vehicles over 24 ft. The road is roughly paved with dips and potholes, which may be challenging for small cars. User reviews highlight that careful driving is required to avoid flat tires.Nearby places
Frazier Park is approximately 15-20 minutes away.
Nearby supplies
There is a small market, deli, and pizza parlor at the intersection of Lockwood Valley Road and Cuddy Valley Road. Multiple well-stocked markets and liquor stores are available at the base of the mountain. Firewood can be purchased at Mike's Pizza Company general store near the ranger station.
Camper Reviews
4.3
30 reviews
Chuchupate Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is mixed with some praising the campground's beauty and quiet atmosphere, while others note its lack of upkeep and primitive conditions. Vault toilets and rough roads are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews
What Campers Love
"Great campground for peace and quiet." "Sites are well maintained." "Beautiful views and open sky." "Daytimes were in the 90s-100 but evenings were a perfect temp for light summer sleeping bags."
Based on 30 reviewsCommon Concerns
"Vault bathrooms are broken down to the point you shouldn't count on using them." "The road leading to the campground is heavily potholed." "No water source." "Many sites don't have shade." "Bring...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Book in advance!" "Prepare for no running water and pack out all trash." "Bring a gnat/mosquito repellent during spring/summer/fall." "Avoid hiking alone." "Carry a walking stick to watch out for...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months can be hot during the day, though evenings cool down significantly, making it ideal for light sleeping bags. Bugs and yellow jackets are more frequent during warmer months.
Based on 30 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great times and such a beautiful campground for families." "Self-pay campsite at $20 per night for 2 cars and up to 8 people max." "Road was a bit damaged, but my little Yaris made it up." "Vault...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 21: Ample space but lacks shade.
Site 22: Less shade and vault toilet smell noted.
Site 23: Nice and flat for tent campers.
Site 24: Described as ideal for hammock setups.
Site 28: Fair amount...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Null
Based on 30 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and appreciated by campers. "Dog-friendly." "Bring shade for pets due to heat in the summer."
Based on 30 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025