Cabins near Gilroy, California range from rustic to modern accommodations with varying amenities based on location. The region sits in the southern Santa Clara Valley with elevations between 200-300 feet in town and rising to over 2,000 feet in the surrounding hills. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F while winter nights can drop to the mid-30s, making cabin camping comfortable year-round with proper preparation.
What to do
Hiking through redwoods: Mount Madonna County Park offers extensive trail networks through towering redwoods where visitors can experience unique natural phenomena. "This is the only place I've seen the redwood trees harvest the fog and make their own rain, which is pretty cool. In the morning it's raining under the redwood trees but not under the madrone or tan oak trees, which is wild," notes one Mount Madonna County Park visitor.
Archery activities: Some parks maintain dedicated archery facilities for visitors seeking target practice. "There is an archery trail with 28 targets on a trail through the woods. We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge," reports a Mount Madonna camper.
Wine tasting excursions: The region provides easy access to local wineries from several campgrounds. "Their pool is huge and very very well kept. There is a nearby store, and you are close enough to Santa Cruz to spend a day on the boardwalk. Plus good nature hike trails in park," mentions a visitor at Morgan Hill RV Resort. Another camper adds, "Close to local wine tastings and even had Safeway close enough for grocery delivery."
What campers like
Private sites with shade: Campsites vary significantly in size and privacy throughout the region. "Our site (418) was huge and private. There is a large vacant campsite across the road that's reserved for docents but it was empty when we were there so we had the cul-de-sac all to ourselves. Sites 416 and 417 are also big with hidden spots back off the road for pitching your tent," explains a Mount Madonna visitor.
Variety of accommodation options: Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday provides multiple lodging choices beyond standard cabins. "We stayed in one of the airstreams they have for rent there. The family loved it—it was the perfect size for us and everything worked and the outdoor patio had heavy duty tables and chairs along with fire pit and even a Weber grill," shares one KOA camper.
Modern amenities: Many properties maintain facilities that enhance comfort. "Bathrooms are great. Nice club/game room and clean washing facility," notes a visitor at Salinas-Monterey KOA. Another camper mentions, "They have nice facilities and a heated pool although a hot tub would be nice also. The sites are a little small but very mature trees and they keep it clean."
What you should know
Elevation and temperature differences: The mountain locations can be significantly cooler than surrounding areas. "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared and had to drive into town and buy more clothes," warns a Mount Madonna reviewer.
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report active wildlife, particularly after dark. "Some critters here, I saw a few skunks and one wandered right into our campsite at night, so keep an eye out for them," notes a Mount Madonna camper. At Pinnacles Campground, visitors report: "Many here will tell you about the raccoons! The campground is split by a creek which has a lot of critters, rabbits, chipmunks(?), quail, mice, and raccoon."
Limited cell service: Communication can be challenging at certain locations. "We didn't have any cell phone service, but we did manage to get service with our hotspot while in the campground. The store has wifi too," shares a Pinnacles visitor. Another reviewer notes, "Important to note that you can actually get a cell signal if you walk to the dump station!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-specific amenities: Some properties offer extensive recreation options for children. "In mid October the campground is still running kids activities daily and they're good! Great culture here - friendly, lots of things to do (pool, basketball, volleyball, horse shoes, playground, billiards, karaoke, tennis)," reports a visitor at Thousand Trails Morgan Hill.
Consider biking opportunities: Several campgrounds provide suitable terrain for children to cycle. "Great campground for the kids to bike at but there are a few big hills so make sure they know how to use their brakes," advises a Mount Madonna visitor.
Book sites strategically: Location within the campground can significantly impact your experience. "I would recommend booking away from the jump pillow or playground, unless easy playground access is important, because the spots are pretty noisy," suggests a Santa Cruz KOA visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications carefully: RV spaces vary widely between properties. "Site 211 was listed as 30' trailer but that was definitely not the case as it was a weird triangle parking area. We made it work and enjoyed the park," explains one Mount Madonna visitor.
Consider hookup locations: Utility placement can present challenges at some properties. "The location of the electrical/water is awkward," notes a reviewer at Marina Dunes RV Park. Another adds, "It's hard to get bigger RVs into spots also. We have a 35' 5th wheel and there are only some spots that will fit it."
Weather preparedness: Temperature variations can affect comfort in RVs without climate control. "It can get cold at night in the redwoods," reports a camper. Another visitor suggests, "If you camp here in the summer it'll be really hot, but the good news is there is a swimming pool at the campground."
