City: Palomar Mountain, CA

Category: Parks & Recreation

Telephone: (760) 742-3462, (800) 444-7275

Address: 19552 State Park Road

Description: As you reach the fork in County Road S7, one way leads to Palomar Mountain State Park and the other takes you to the national forest and the observatory. The sign is clear, but the choice may be hard. This picnic, walking, and camping area is popular year-round but nicest in spring and fall. In winter the snow brings San Diegans in droves. Be sure to bring chains during the winter if you head toward Palomar Mountain for some fun in the snow. You may not be allowed to drive up to the top without them. Elevation at the park ranges from 4,000 to 5,500 feet.At the park you’ll find some rambling walking trails. The Doane Valley Nature Trail is an easy 3 miles; most of it is on flat ground. The hike to the observatory, according to the self-guided trail markers, is about 4 miles with some climbing; kids older than age 10 will probably love the challenge. Request a trail brochure from the ranger station staff as you drive into the park.For those who love to picnic, you’ll find eating areas and camping spots with barbecues. Many Insiders picnic on Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the outings have become family traditions. There are also 31 developed campsites. Speaking of picnics and camping, become “bee wary.” The bees and yellow jackets (a hungry, hazardous wasp) can be a serious fun-deterrent during the late summer and fall, when they swarm around campgrounds and picnic areas. Leashed dogs are allowed at the campsite but not on the trails.The observatory and visitor center, at the end of County Road S6, are open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily throughout the year. The park is open from dawn to dusk. There’s a small gift shop that’s open daily and an adjacent bakery and vegetarian restaurant.