The museum operates on the historic 'Impossible Railroad,' a line famous for its challenging construction through rugged desert canyons.
The collection includes a massive 1940s-era steam locomotive and various rare diesel-electric engines once used for transcontinental freight.
The site features a fully restored 1916 wooden depot that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The museum grounds include an extensive outdoor display yard containing over 80 pieces of historic rolling stock.
The track route crosses the scenic Campo Creek Viaduct, a notable piece of early 20th-century engineering.
The Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, located in the historic town of Campo, California, is a major railway preservation site that operates heritage train rides along the former San Diego and Arizona Eastern Railway. The facility houses an extensive collection of vintage locomotives, freight cars, and passenger equipment spanning the 20th century. Visitors can explore the historic 1916 Campo Depot, which serves as the museum's centerpiece and administrative hub. The museum operates on a segment of track that features the high-desert landscapes of eastern San Diego County. Exhibits include restored steam and diesel locomotives alongside specialized maintenance-of-way vehicles. The museum is maintained and operated primarily by volunteers dedicated to the preservation of southwestern railroad history. It serves as a living laboratory for rail enthusiasts to view equipment in a rural, authentic setting.
The elevated viewing area overlooking the restored 1916 depot and the line of vintage locomotives in the yard.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as you will be walking on uneven gravel and around heavy industrial metal equipment.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as most of the museum’s equipment displays are located outdoors in direct sun.
Check the museum website for specific train ride dates, as excursions are not scheduled every day the museum is open.
Do not assume a train is operating every day; many of the museum's excursions occur only on weekends or during special seasonal events.
The museum is generally open on weekends for train rides and tours; it is typically closed on weekdays.
Stay behind safety barriers, do not climb on equipment unless authorized, and follow all volunteer instructions near active tracks.
