Mt. Pinos Campground
4.3755 reviewsQuick Facts
7,800 ftPrice
$30/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Open daily from May ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
7,800 ftPrice
$30/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Open daily from May ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsMt. Pinos Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$30 per night during Peak Season (May 15, 2025 - October 31, 2025). Additional charges: $2 for weekends and holidays.
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
Total Campsite Fees$30.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider805 434 1996customerservice@pmcparks.com
What Campers Say
4.37
Recommended
Based on 55 reviews
114 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsquiethiking
Some mention
crowded
"User reviews of Mt. Pinos Campground reveal a mix of positive and negative experiences. Many campers praise the site's natural beauty, stargazing opportunities, and hiking trails, while others criticize the lack of amenities, poor maintenance of vault toilets, and unreliable trash disposal."
Fees & Passes at Mt. Pinos Campground
$30/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14 nights maximum stay during a single visit.
Cancellation: $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional charges, including forfeiture of the first...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Camp One website.
Best Time to Camp at Mt. Pinos Campground
Summer arrives gently at this elevation, bringing pleasantly warm days perfect for outdoor adventures, yet the mountain holds onto its alpine character when darkness falls. As sunset paints the peaks, temperatures plummet dramatically into the 40s, reminding visitors to pack that extra layer. The shoulder seasons bring their own drama—unexpected snowflakes might dust your morning coffee in late spring or early fall, adding a touch of winter magic to your mountain escape.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 15 through October 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open daily from May 15 to October 31.
- Current Alerts: null
About Mt. Pinos Campground
Perched high at 7,800 feet where the stars seem close enough to touch, Mount Pinos Campground beckons adventurers seeking refuge from city lights and digital distractions. This mountain sanctuary transforms into nature's own planetarium after dark, where the Milky Way sprawls across an ink-black canvas unmarred by light pollution. By day, winding trails invite exploration through pine-scented forests, whether you're navigating rocky paths on foot or challenging yourself on two wheels through the rugged terrain.
Mt. Pinos Campground caters primarily to primitive and tent campers, with limited accommodations for RVs. It does not offer luxury camping options such as glamping or cabin lodging.
Historical SignificanceLong before GPS coordinates and trail maps, the Chumash people recognized Mount Pinos as the sacred center of their universe—a cosmic axis where earth meets sky and all things find their balance. This ancient wisdom still resonates through the whispering pines, inviting modern visitors to discover their own sense of equilibrium in this timeless landscape where indigenous heritage and natural wonder converge.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently at this elevation, bringing pleasantly warm days perfect for outdoor adventures, yet the mountain holds onto its alpine character when darkness falls. As sunset paints the peaks, temperatures plummet dramatically into the 40s, reminding visitors to pack that extra layer. The shoulder seasons bring their own drama—unexpected snowflakes might dust your morning coffee in late spring or early fall, adding a touch of winter magic to your mountain escape.
ElevationLife at 7,800 feet follows its own rhythm, where thin mountain air sharpens your senses and summer nights demand cozy sleeping bags. Even as August sunshine warms the afternoon rocks, the elevation ensures crisp, refreshing evenings that send campers gratefully reaching for fleece jackets and gathering around crackling fires, sharing stories under a blanket of stars.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic Jeffrey pines create a natural cathedral around the campground, their vanilla-scented bark and towering presence offering both shelter and inspiration. Through breaks in the forest canopy, sweeping vistas reveal the dramatic contours of Lockwood Valley stretching below, while Frazier Mountain rises like a geological guardian on the horizon. This living landscape shifts with the light—golden at sunrise, emerald at midday, and painted in alpenglow as evening approaches.
Geological RegionThe campground rests within nature's own amphitheater, where ancient Jeffrey pines have claimed the mountainside as their domain for centuries. These stately conifers frame breathtaking panoramas of Lockwood Valley's rolling expanse and Frazier Mountain's imposing silhouette, creating a geological tapestry that tells the story of tectonic forces, erosion, and time itself sculpting this remarkable high-country refuge.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options are not explicitly mentioned in official materials or reviews for Mt. Pinos Campground.
Sites SizeSites are described by users as spacious, with plenty of area between campsites. However, some sites are noted to be uneven and small for RVs.
Sites PrivacySites offer privacy with significant space between them. Some users specifically highlight the peaceful and secluded atmosphere.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #3 and #4 are suitable for larger motorhomes. Site #15 offers spectacular views. Sites near trails and restrooms offer convenience.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay during a single visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No group-specific sites are available at Mt. Pinos Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout19 single campsites spread out for privacy. Uneven terrain reported in some sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen daily from May 15 to October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available as first-come, first-serve. Mid-week availability improves; weekends and holidays are busier.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional charges, including forfeiture of the first night's fees. Changes may also incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mt. Pinos Campground offers recreational activities appealing to outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking on trails like Mount Pinos Trail and McGill Exploration Trail, biking to the summit of Mount Pinos, and stargazing under dark skies recognized as one of California's prime astronomical viewing locations. Nearby attractions extend recreational opportunities for fishing and swimming within a 30-minute drive. Wildlife observation is also popular, although no specific details about species are mentioned.
Hiking
Hiking trails such as Mount Pinos Trail and McGill Exploration Trail cater to varying skill levels. User reviews frequently praise the trails for their proximity, scenic views, and accessibility.Biking
Biking trails are available both within the campground and nearby. Some users highlight the enjoyment of mountain biking and the ease of trail access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observation is popular among campers, with mentions of animals like bears. Visitors are advised to secure food and be bear-aware.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as Nordic skiing are available nearby but not directly at Mt. Pinos Campground.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports opportunities such as kayaking or paddleboarding are referenced in authoritative or user reviews.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are present in the area; campers must use approved food storage containers. Rugged terrain and lack of potable water may pose challenges.
Active alertsnull
Weather at Mt. Pinos Campground
56
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 through October 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are limited. User reviews describe overflowing trash bins and lack of maintenance, which pose risks of attracting animals.
Proximity to water featuresNo running water or nearby water bodies.
Common complaintsCommon issues include poor maintenance of roads and campsite pads, unclean vault toilets, limited trash collection, and crowded conditions during peak times.
HostA camp host is present and described as helpful by some visitors. Other reviews mention inconsistent maintenance by hosts.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTake 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.
The road through the campground is narrow in places and is not recommended for trailers or vehicles over 22' in length.Nearby places
Pine Mountain Club (15 miles), Frazier Park (19 miles), Lake of the Woods (10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Restaurants, gas and shopping are within 15 miles at Pine Mountain Club or 19 miles in Frazier Park.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
55 reviews
Mt. Pinos Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Mt. Pinos Campground reveal a mix of positive and negative experiences. Many campers praise the site's natural beauty, stargazing opportunities, and hiking trails, while others criticize the lack of amenities, poor maintenance of vault toilets, and unreliable trash disposal.
Review Summaries
Based on 55 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the campground's scenic views, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to hiking and biking trails. Stargazing is particularly emphasized as a highlight due to the area's...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include unclean vault toilets, overflowing trash bins, uneven campsite pads, and poor road conditions within the campground.
Based on 55 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users suggest bringing potable water, additional toilet supplies, and being prepared for cold nights due to the high elevation. Campers also advise arriving early during peak stargazing...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight stargazing and pleasant weather but also mention flies and gnats. Winter accessibility is limited yet offers opportunities for Nordic skiing in nearby areas. Fall reviews...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Awesome campground, top of the mountain and nice views." - Wei Li
2. "Night skies are breathtaking. Wildlife is all around." - Alice C
3. "Bring your own water. Always be bear-aware." - Lyle Q
4....
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 is frequently praised for its stunning view, though some note uneven ground. Site 3 has a bike path running through it but is described as respectful by other campers. Site 19 is considered...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not specifically addressed in reviews. However, uneven ground and lack of potable water may pose challenges for individuals with mobility or other disabilities.
Based on 55 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some reviews suggest being bear-aware for safety reasons. No additional pet-specific amenities are mentioned.
Based on 55 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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