Golden State
Sit back and relax while the rugged backcountry scenery of San Diego rolls by during a pleasant round trip train ride on the historic San Diego & Arizona Railway. The Golden State is the Museum’s classic weekend excursion that has been in operation since 1986. Guests depart from the Campo Depot for the approximately 50-minute ride. You can ride in our 1930 Pullman coaches or enjoy the view from our 1960 baggage car.
If you want to try something really special, get a Locomotive Cab ride. Watch our engineer operate the locomotive. Hear the radio chatter from the brakeman and conductor.
All Golden State Tickets include FREE admission to the Campo Railroad Museum’s Exhibit Hall and outdoor equipment displays!
Visit the Exhibit Hall. See a railroad firetruck. Climb aboard our Southern Pacific #2353 steam locomotive. Explore John D. Spreckles own railroad car, the San Diego & Arizona #050 Carriso Gorge, and experience what it was like living in a caboose.
Note: All trains depart from the Campo Depot located at 750 Depot St., Campo, CA 91906.
The Golden State Train is running both Saturdays and Sundays. Trains depart at 10:30 A.M., 1:00 P.M. and 2:30 P.M.
Please note that the Golden State train will pause operating after September 27, 2026. Please enjoy our Backcountry Wine Train, on October 4, Pumpkin Express and/or Sip & Scare Sunset Special in October, and North Pole Limited in November and December. The Golden State train will resume On January 9, 2027.
Fares for the Golden State:
Coach Class Tickets
Infants – Free (Under 1)
Children – $14.95 (ages 1-17)
Adults – $19.95 (ages 18+)
Seniors – $18.00 (ages 65+)
Active Military – $18.00 (w/ID)
Members – Free (w/ID)
Locomotive Cab Rides
All – $45.00 (ages 6+)
Only two cab ride spaces are available on each train. Please see the Locomotive Cab Rides page for more details.
Reservations
To purchase tickets online, click on Purchase Tickets to view our Excursion Calendar.