Some Things To Do Around Palomar

Palomar Observatory 

Just 15 minutes from Bailey's, Palomar Observatory is open to the public free of charge from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM everyday.  Owned and operated by the California Institute of Technology it is home to the 200" Hale Telescope.  

Designed and built in the 1930's it is still a premier scientific instrument in use every night (weather permitting).  You can view the telescope during the day, from a glass enclosed visitor's gallery inside the 200" dome building.

Hiking 

Palomar Mountain has a wonderfully diverse and rich forest environment.  Topping out at 6100 feet above sea level, Palomar is part of California's Coastal Mountain Range and is home to a rich mixture of oak, fir, pine and chaparral.  Clear artesian springs and lush meadows spread across the valleys.  We typically get snow as early as Thanksgiving and as late as May Day. 

The local wildlife include squirrel, bobcat, fox, raccoon, coyote, deer, mountain lion - and the occasional bear.   The bird life is rich, varied (we currently have a "herd" of 30 wild turkeys running amuck) and is a rewarding experience for "birders" (ask Terri Bailey for information on Guided Birding Tours).   

Bailey's is located on sixty acres of prime mountain top and is a great place for short hikes.  Palomar Mountain State Park (just 10 minutes away) has numerous day trails.   A modest fee is charged for State Park day use at the park entrance (ask Terri Bailey for information on Guided Hiking Tours). 

Fishing

Baileys Pond is available to our campers at no charge (and no license required).  We charge a day use fee for non-campers.  Please note that we practice catch and release only!

Doane's Pond is just 10 minutes away in Palomar State Park.  A valid California Fishing License and day use pass are required, and can be purchased at the park entrance.