Riding South through Camp Pendleton...an update please.

[Bclayden]

Hello.

I've read numerous threads and web sites, most very old, regarding bicycle access through USMC Camp Pendleton, San Diego County, and its ever changing open/closed status?  Anyone up to date on access today?  Is there still some freeway shoulder riding required?

Plan is to ride Long Beach Airport to San Diego on Feb 28, 2012.

Thanks in advance for your responses.

-Ben

[Tim]

www.opawakening.com

Ben
If you take a look at my site you'll see my ride starts and ends with USMC bases.  I'm a former Marine and i'm in contact with both bases PAO's (Public Affairs Officers).  Bikes are allowed on Camp Lejeune NC as well as MCMWTC in Bridgeport.  But I had to jump through a few hoops to get this ok'd.  If you are driving a car - no way in hell unless you are active duty, holder of a mil green / pink card or have a pass from a base SNCO explaining your visit. 

Google Pendelton PAOs to get the official word.  I'll look up who my contact is at Pendleton and post up if I can find.

edit - here ya go - 1st Mar Div PAO = (760)725-5011/ 5043/9386

[dfege]

I live in San Diego and as a rule, you can almost always bicycle through Camp Pendleton.  You need an id; a driver's license is enough.  Every once in a while, they will close Camp Pendleton to bicyclists for various reasons.  In that case you have to take the shoulder of I-5 for about seven miles. I have done it once, and hope I never have to do it again.  Lots of traffic zooming by as 70 mph; however, it is possible and you can do it safely if you take precautions.

[Bclayden]

Thanks Tim and Dfege.  Sounds like a go.  Tim, I will check with the PAO office 24 hours prior for status update. Worst case I end up on I-5 for 20 minutes.  Very helpful. 
Happy riding.
-Ben