About Palomar Mountain

Palomar Mountain is home to beautiful wooded forests and mountain meadows. In this lush forest you will find revitalizing springs, streams and ponds surrounded by flowing grassy fields and towering deciduous trees. Ferns and wildflowers such as western dogwoods, azaleas, lilies and lupine carpet the shaded forest floor and are home to a variety of wild animals.

The hills are abundant with oak, pine, cedar, fir and several others that deliver a remarkably vibrant sight. The songs of many beautiful birds echo through the trees, with the occasional sighting of our resident bald Eagles. The Spanish word “Palomar” means “pigeon roost,” which was derived from a time when Palomar Mountain was known as the home of the beautiful band-tailed pigeons.

The air at 5,000ft+ elevation is so unpolluted and pure that the mountain’s highest point has been home to one of our neighbors, the world famous Palomar Observatory, for nearly 100 years. At night, millions of stars, both still and shooting, can be seen in the midst of nature or on our deck with a blanket and a hot cup of cocoa. Unobstructed peaks offer incredible ocean views from Mexico all the way out to the San Gabriel Mountains. Palomar Mountain was even rated as one of the best mountain trips by Sunset magazine.

What people say

  • "Dozer Dave" - Discovery Channel show Gold Rush
    Visitor

    “Accommodations, food, dogs and birds were excellent. I’ve been on a lot of bird hunts and this hunt at V1 Ranch was the best! I recommend it to anyone.”

  • Zachary Downing - Lake Forrest, WA
    Visitor

    "Everything was fantastic! Had an awesome time! Top-notch!"

  • Anthony Turin - Sandy, OR
    Visitor

    "Way beyond my expectations!!! Everything was a step above! Amazing service and people! Highly Recommend!"

  • Brent Larson - Houston, TX
    Visitor

    My V1 Ranch experience exceeded expectations, including comfortable accommodations, expert dog handling, serious upland hunting and great meals. Dany and Tina are wonderful hosts! Morning coffee on the balcony overlooking the valley should not be missed. This is a unique upland hunting destination, and I will definitely return and recommend it to my friends.

  • Paul Grossbard - Houston, TX
    Visitor

    "Dany and Tina were great hosts - very accommodating. The facilities are excellent, food outstanding and the service left nothing to be desired. Hunts were great with good dog work & opportunity to talk down birds. Will be back!"

  • Steve Carter - Capistrano Beach, CA
    Visitor

    "We loved our hunt at V1 Ranch. The terrain was diverse, the birds were flying and plentiful! We brought our pointer and she had a great time. The staff is excellent and all about catering to the specific needs of their clients. I highly recommend V1 Ranch for Upland game hunters who want a unique and first class experience."

  • Skeets Dunn - Spokane Valley, WA
    Visitor

    "I have hunted since I was 6 years old in all kinds of habitat around the world. If you like hunting birds, enjoy a fantastic lunch with unmatched scenery, you need to visit the V1 Ranch. They have great overnight accommodations too if you succumb to the Dauo Vineyard wines they like to serve. You will not be disappointed with their little piece of heaven."

  • Jim B. - Phoenix, AZ
    Visitor

    "My hunting experience at V1 Ranch was one of the best days of my life!"

  • Dan Martin - Orange, CA
    Visitor

    "Hands down the best hunting experience of my life"

  • Sean T. - San Diego, CA
    Visitor

    “I’ve been on numerous guided bird hunts and this is top shelf hunting!”

  • Jimmy Trahin - Los Angeles, CA
    Visitor

    “A fantastic hunt with great dogs & great guides. A pheasant hunt like no other & one you will never forget.”

  • Steve Cooley - former Los Angeles District Attorney
    Visitor

    “Fabulous experience! Well organized and executed. Can hardly wait to do it again.”