Fremont Peak State Park

Covering about 157 acres, Fremont Peak State Park lies in Monterey County, about 9 miles northeast of Salinas.

Visitors come for historic sites, ranger programs, wildlife watching, geocaching, and biking. Camping is available: campsites, including RV sites, tent sites, and group camping. The park says there are no showers.

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. Overnight facilities: Tent Camping, Group Campsites, Remote Camping, RV Access

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: • Fremont Peak Observatory Association • 2026 Schedule

Overview The winding drive up San Juan Canyon Road, south of San Juan Bautista, to Fremont Peak State Park rewards visitors with panoramic views of Monterey Bay, the San Benito Valley, Salinas Valley, and the Santa Lucia Mountains east of Big Sur. An astronomical observatory with a 30-inch telescope is open for public programs on selected evenings. Phone (831) 623-4255 or (831) 623-2465 for more information. Camping Accessible tent camping and accessible non-flush toilets are located in each loop of the primitive campground. There are no showers in the campground. Picnic Area Day use is available year-round from dawn to dusk and includes accessible picnic sites and group picnicking, with accessible non-flush restrooms nearby.