About Fremont Peak State Park

Offers magnificent vistas of Monterey Bay and the Salinas Valley, 25 campsites, and two large group campsites from its 3,169-foot peak and features an astronomical observatory with a 30-inch telescope, which is open for public programs on select evenings.


Location-Directions

10700 San Juan Canyon Rd, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

Off of Highway 156, 11-miles south of San Juan Bautista on San Juan Canyon Road.

  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.

Upcoming Events

 

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing

The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised.
7-Day Forecast

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, rain, or humid conditions will cancel astronomy programs. 

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.
  • 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: 

As of May 5th, 2026, wood and charcoal fires are NOT allowed at the park in provided fire rings. 
Due to the lack of water at the park, wood or charcoal fires are NOT allowed at any time. 

Park Specific Rules

Superintendent Orders are laws that are specific to a State Park District and/or a California State Park. The links below will take you to a copy of each District Superintendent Order that applies to Fremont Peak State Park. These orders are posted for viewing at each public entrance of the park. These orders are subject to change and were recently renewed in 2026. Fremont Peak State Park is part of the Diablo Range District.

Order No. Date Subject
001-26-680-412  July 31, 2026      Fremont Peak SP Closure
038-25-680-412 January 1, 2026 Fremont Peak SP Hours of Use
039-25-680-412  January 1, 2026 Fremont Peak SP Closed Areas
040-25-680-412 January 1, 2026 Fremont Peak SP Fire Restrictions
004-25-680-680  January 1, 2026 Diablo Range District Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones)
005-25-680-680 January 1, 2026 Diablo Range District Juvenile Curfew
006-25-680-680 January 1, 2026 Diablo Range District Trail Use Policy
007-25-680-680 January 1, 2026 Diablo Range District Camping Time Limits 
003.25.680.680 January 1, 2026 Diablo Range District Rescinded Orders