Open year round. Day use hours are from 8am to 30 minutes after Sunset.
Fremont Peak State Park
This park unit is partially open. Please take the time to read the information contained on this webpage to find out what is open and closed, and what COVID-19 guidelines are in place. - (January 21, 2022)
What is open now?
- Park hours are 8 am to 1/2 hour after sunset.
- All parking lots and trails are open.
- Camping is now open
What is currently closed?
- Fremont Peak Observatory is closed.
COVID-19 Guidelines - (January 7, 2022)
Recreate Responsibly
Protect yourself, family, friends and your community by following these prevention measures:
Leave No Trace – Leave areas better than how you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants.
Recreate Responsibly
Protect yourself, family, friends and your community by following these prevention measures:
- Know Before You Go – Prior to leaving home, check the status of the park unit you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a back-up plan in case your destination is crowded. Stay home if you are sick
- Plan Ahead – Some restrooms will be temporarily closed to keep up with cleaning schedules. Bring soap/hand sanitizer.
- Play It Safe – Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System. Learn more at parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips.
- Be COVID-19 Safe – State Parks continues to meet guidance from local and state public officials as COVID-19 is still present and still deadly. Current state guidance requires that masks must be worn in all indoor public settings, such as museums and visitor centers, irrespective of vaccine status through February 15, 2022. Read the latest COVID-19 guidance at COVID19.ca.gov.
Phone Number
(831) 623-4255
Max. Trailer Lengths
Trailer: Up to 25 Feet
Camper/Motorhome: Up to 25 Feet
Park Hours
Dogs Allowed?
Yes
Dogs not allowed on trails.
Driving Directions to Fremont Peak SP
Off of Highway 156, 11-miles south of San Juan Bautista on San Juan Canyon Road.Camping and Lodging
Visitors will be able to reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance from the current date. Bookings may extend from the arrival date to the desired departure date – based on availability and the park’s maximum stay rules.
Upcoming Park Events
No events scheduled at this moment.
OVERNIGHT FACILITIES
Environmental Campsites
Family Campsites
Group Campsites
Primitive Camping
RV Access
Environmental Campsites
Family Campsites
Group Campsites
Primitive Camping
RV Access
TRAIL USE
Bike Trails
Hiking Trails
Bike Trails
Hiking Trails
DAY-USE ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES
Historical/Cultural Site
Picnic Areas
Exhibits and Programs
Guided Tours
Nature & Wildlife Viewing
Family Programs
Geocaching
Historical/Cultural Site
Picnic Areas
Exhibits and Programs
Guided Tours
Nature & Wildlife Viewing
Family Programs
Geocaching
OTHER FACILITIES & VISITOR INFORMATION
Restrooms
Drinking Water Available
Restrooms
Drinking Water Available
As of October 25, 2021 wood and charcoal fires are allowed in the park. You must bring your own wood to burn. Wood is not sold at the park. Collecting any wood, leaves or other material to burn is not allowed. Tickets will be issued for people collecting wood or other materials to burn. Cooking with gas stoves are allowed but must be monitored at all times.
If you have questions about camping, reservations, amenities, they might already be answered in our Frequently Asked Questions. If you have further questions, contact us by email or phone listed in the Contacts section of the main webpage for Fremont Peak State Park.
This park features expansive views of Monterey Bay, from its hiking trails in the grasslands of the higher peaks of the Gavilan Range. Other views include the San Benito Valley, Salinas Valley, and the Santa Lucia Mountains east of Big Sur. Pine and oak woodlands in the park are home to many birds and mammals. There are camping and picnic facilities in the park. The park also features an astronomical observatory with a 30-inch telescope, which is open for public programs on selected evenings.
Location-Directions
Off of Highway 156, 11-miles south of San Juan Bautista on San Juan Canyon Road.
Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised.
Facilities - Activities
Hiking
Park Brochure/Map available online only.
Astronomical Observing
It’s best to arrive before sundown as vehicle headlights after sunset disrupt astronomers’ night vision. Clouds or rain will cancel astronomy programs. Check the link below for program dates.
In general, astronomers are friendly, outgoing, and happy to allow you to view through their telescopes and answer your questions. A few courtesies that will enhance everyone’s experience:
- Do not touch any part of any telescope unless the owner instructs you on the proper method. In particular, do not touch any glass optical surfaces.
- Please be sure that all children are supervised around telescopes.
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Remember, using lights near telescopes at night is highly disruptive. A piece of red "cellophane" wrapped over the end of a flashlight and held in place with a rubber band works great.
For more information take this link to the Fremont Peak Observatory Association