MT. Pinos Campground
MT. PINOS CAMPGROUND
Part of Los Padres National Forest
Overview
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.Facilities
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.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.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.
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.Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (820) 500-1099.Important Notices
Contact: Camp Los Padres manages this campground. For questions, email info@camplospadres.com or call 820-500-1099.
Single sites: Site Capacity: Each campsite allows up to 8 people and 2 vehicles. Parking for additional vehicles is very limited and not guaranteed; when space is available, extra vehicles are $10 per vehicle per night. Groups of more than 8 must reserve a second site.
Access: The road through the campground is narrow in places and not recommended for trailers or vehicles over 22 ft.
Water & Services: No drinking water or public showers. Some cell service. Nearest stores and gas are 19 miles away in Frazier Park.
Pack It In, Pack It Out: No trash service; please bring garbage bags.
Quiet Hours: 10 p.m. – 8 a.m. Pets are allowed. Fireworks are prohibited at all times.
Elevation: 7,800 ft. Nights can be cold, even in summer.
Wildlife: Be bear aware; store food in approved containers or a locked vehicle.
Minimum Stay: 2 nights on weekends, 3 nights on holidays.
Trees: All trees, even when healthy and well-maintained, can pose a natural hazard of falling limbs. Visitors assume responsibility for any property damage, injury or other circumstances that may result from these hazards.
Lost, Stolen or Damaged Property: Camp Los Padres is not responsible for loss or damages to property due to fire, theft, accident or any other cause.
Preparation for your trip: Please watch this Leave No Trace 7 Principles video prior to your arrival to help protect our National Forests.
Firewood Policy: Help protect Los Padres National Forest: Buy It Where You Burn It. Don't Move Firewood. Firewood must meet applicable local-origin (purchased within the same county) or approved treatment requirements (certified heat treated) to reduce invasive pest risks. Firewood brought into the campground may be subject to inspection, and if not purchased locally or found to be compliant with requirements it can be confiscated to prevent the spread of the Goldspotted Oak Borer. By completing your reservation, you acknowledge that you have been informed of the campground's firewood requirements and agree to comply with applicable restrictions. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
More Information: Visit Los Padres National Forest for forest alerts, fire restrictions and road conditions.
Notifications and Alerts
Mt. Pinos Campground is closing for the season. We invite you to join us for camping at McGill Campground (weather pending) which is located less than 2 miles from Mt. Pinos Campground off of Mt. Pinos Road. Questions? info@camplospadres.com
Available Activities
- CAMPING - Camping
- BIKING - Biking
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.
Contact Information
Phone: 805 434 1996
Rental Options
Available Campsites
- Site 05, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 13, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 12, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 06, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 04, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 03, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 07, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 14, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 08, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 16, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 10, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 17, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 11, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 15, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 18, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 02, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 19, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 01, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site 09, Loop Loop 1, Type Standard Nonelectric
