Chuchupate Campground

CHUCHUPATE CAMPGROUND

Part of Los Padres National Forest

Overview

Nestled near the Tejon Pass, your escape from the city to this remote and beautiful high desert hide-away awaits. This perfectly primitive-style campground is a favorite "retreat from the heat." Conveniently located, Chuchupate Campground is just minutes from Los Angeles. Ditch the cell phone and the laptop, and leave the grind behind. Following a serpentine ascent to Chuchupate, you will take in views of the Lockwood Valley; through the pines you can glimpse Frazier Mountain and the Tehachapi Mountains.

Facilities

This seasonal campground is open daily May through November. There are 29 single and spaciously situated campsites ideal for tent camping, and RVs under 24 ft. Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Pets are allowed. You should plan to be completely self-sustained for the duration of your trip. There is no potable water or electricity onsite. There is no dump station. This is a "dry" campground with six vault toilets. The road through the campground is narrow in places and long trailers are not advised due to obstructions and difficult angles into the campsites.

Natural Features

Chuchupate is the Chumash name for California rock parsnip or celery weed, a yellow-flowered plant that grows amidst the scrub-oak and manzanita here. During the late spring, the hillside is accented by wildflowers including Matilija poppies, Indian paintbrush and lupines. The campground is sufficiently shaded by hearty pinyon pines.

Recreation

Hikers who want a bit of a challenge can make a day trip from Chuchupate Campground up the Frazier Mountain Trail with some panoramic views of Lockwood Valley and the high desert. The lower portion of the hike is almost entirely exposed and can be hot during the summer, but the upper half is pleasantly shaded. The Dark Sky element at Chuchupate makes it a favorite for star gazing. This campground also offers access to miles of OHV recreation.

Nearby Attractions

Trails, beautiful views, biking, hiking, off-road vehicle riding all within minutes. There is a small market, deli and pizza parlor at the intersection of Lockwood Valley Road and Cuddy Valley Road. Frazier Park located nearby offers several other dining options.

Important Notices

  • In order to contact our offices, please use the email: customerservice@pmcparks.com or view our website: CampOne.Com for answers to frequently asked questions.

  • Camping fee includes 1 vehicle and 1 tent, trailer or RV site. $10 fee for each extra vehicle.

  • No drinking water is available.
  • Pets are allowed.
  • No public showers in the region.
  • Quiet hours are 10 p.m. - 8 a.m.
  • This facility is 'Pack it in. Pack it out.'
  • Fireworks are prohibited at all times.
  • At 6,300 ft. in elevation, the nights can be cold, even in summer.
  • The paved road up to the campground is narrow (one lane only) in places and it is not recommended for long trailers or vehicles over 24 ft. in length.
  • Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating.
  • Be cautious of snakes in the area. Use a 'walking stick' when hiking in this area.
  • No cell service in or near this campground.
  • Avoid hiking alone. Tell someone where you plan to go and then stick to your plans.
  • Avoid unnecessary risk - help for emergencies is miles away.
  • Carry a first aid kit and other safety gear with you.
  • Bring gnat/mosquito repellent during spring/summer/fall.
  • 2 night minimum stay on weekends.
  • 3 night minimum stay on holidays. Click here for more information on Los Padres National Forest Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

Available Activities

  • CAMPING - Camping
  • BIKING - Mountain Biking

Directions

From 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.

Contact Information

Phone: 805 434 1996

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery