Best Campgrounds near Gilroy, CA

Gilroy is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Gilroy, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Gilroy, California (127)

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Showing results 1-10 of 127 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Gilroy, CA

821 Reviews of 127 Gilroy Campgrounds



Guide to Gilroy

Camping near Gilroy, California, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Mount Madonna County Park said, "The VERY cleanest restrooms, with the added convenience of hand soap!!"
  • Privacy: Campers enjoy the privacy of the sites at New Brighton State Beach Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Spot 64 was humongous and extremely private."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families love the amenities at Big Sur Campground & Cabins. One camper said, "The playground was well maintained and modern."

What you should know:

  • Heat in Summer: If you're planning to camp at Pinnacles Campground, be prepared for extreme heat. One reviewer warned, "It is WICKED hot in the summer."
  • Limited Reservations: Many campgrounds, like California Veterans Memorial Park Campground, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor advised, "Your best bet to get a site is to show up a day or two early."
  • Wildlife Caution: At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, be aware of yellow jackets. One camper shared, "We reported the experience to the attendant... the park is looking for a solution."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Big Sur Campground & Cabins. A camper noted, "If you have little ones they’ll have fun on the playground."
  • Plan for Bugs: Be prepared for insects, especially in warmer months. One family at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground mentioned, "There is so much poison oak - everywhere."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand is a must. A visitor at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground shared, "We were able to take a closeup look at them... they were beautiful birds with big eyes spotting tiny bits of crumbs."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site dimensions. A reviewer at Mount Madonna County Park said, "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great!"
  • Dump Station Availability: Know where the nearest dump station is located. One camper at Anthony Chabot Regional Park mentioned, "The dump station was in good working order."
  • Be Mindful of Shade: Many campgrounds have large trees that provide shade but can also block sunlight for solar panels. A visitor at Big Sur Campground & Cabins noted, "The campground doesn’t see a lot of sunlight, due to the large trees shading most of the area."

Camping around Gilroy offers a variety of experiences, from family-friendly spots to serene getaways. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Gilroy, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Gilroy, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 127 campgrounds and RV parks near Gilroy, CA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Gilroy, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gilroy, CA is New Brighton State Beach Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 42 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gilroy, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Gilroy, CA.

  • What parks are near Gilroy, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Gilroy, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.