Camping options near Hollister, California range from rustic tent sites to luxury yurt accommodations across diverse terrain. Located at elevations between 200-2,500 feet, the region experiences warm summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional rainfall. During winter months, trails around Pinnacles National Park become vibrant with native wildflowers while accommodating year-round camping.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk: At Thousand Trails San Benito, wildlife encounters are common throughout the 300-acre property. "Deer wandered through camp at all times of the day. You can see wild boar passing along the hillsides. We also saw a couple of foxes one evening on the perimeter," reports one visitor who appreciated the natural setting.
Hiking trails for all levels: The Pinnacles Campground serves as a perfect base for exploring the national park's distinctive rock formations. "A lot of the RV sites had electric. And there is water stations throughout. Also a dump station on the way out. This is a great national park if you'd like to hike," notes one camper who enjoyed the access to trails.
Archery practice: At Mount Madonna County Park, visitors can try their hand at archery on a dedicated course. "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," shares one enthusiastic visitor who discovered this unique activity.
Seasonal swimming: Most glamping sites near Hollister offer swimming pools that operate seasonally. "They have 2 pools, one adult with hot tub and one family, quite far apart. All on all we liked it and will return in the winter when I am sure it will be beautifully green hills surrounding," mentions a camper describing their summer experience.
What campers like
Private campsites: Experienced campers appreciate the secluded spots at Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park. "This gem of a county park is just 15 minutes from the Gilroy outlets but you'd have no idea. Campsites are along the beautiful Coyote lake. The lakeside sites are mostly shaded as are the sites along the road. Sites 43, 44 and 45 would be the most secluded," suggests a regular visitor.
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities receive consistent praise at many glamping sites in Hollister. "Bathrooms are extremely clean and well kept. The lake is nice (and you may spot geese or ducks), and there's plenty of room for kids to run around," notes one camper about their Coyote Lake experience.
Unique accommodations: The Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday offers specialty lodging options. "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 a satisfied glamper.
Weather patterns: The microclimate around Mount Madonna creates interesting conditions. "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," explains one observant camper.
What you should know
Temperature variations: Higher elevation camping areas can be significantly cooler than valley locations. "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 & had to drive into town & buy more clothes!" warns a Mount Madonna visitor who was caught unprepared.
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds near Hollister require food storage precautions. "There are food lockers since wild pigs come out at night. Be sure to lock all food up! They will roam through the camp ground all through the night if anyone has left any food out," cautions a Coyote Lake camper.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between glamping sites. "Cell service here wasn't good either," notes one camper at Thousand Trails Morgan Hill, while another mentions, "Important to note that you can actually get a cell signal if you walk to the dump station!" at Mount Madonna.
Booking challenges: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "If you can get a reservation here (which is VERY difficult) you will have the best time," explains a Sunset State Beach visitor, highlighting the competition for prime glamping spots near the coast.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Families appreciate campgrounds with structured recreation options. "They had a tv, games and arts for the kids in the clubhouse. The pool was closed for the winter but I can't wait to visit again," shares a San Benito visitor describing winter glamping with children.
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds feature terrain suitable for younger cyclists. "Nice spot to bring the family. 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 parent who camped at Mount Madonna.
Pool access: Swimming facilities are particularly important for families during summer months. "They have 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," notes a Salinas-Monterey KOA camper, highlighting amenities that keep children entertained.
Safety considerations: Campground layout affects family comfort. "I wouldn't recommend booking near the jump pillow or playground, unless easy playground access is important, because the spots are pretty noisy," suggests a KOA visitor with small children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers recommend researching specific sites before booking. "For SUV tents, check out campsite pics on other sites before booking. SUV tents are usually limited to one entrance/exit point on the tent. Usually the driver's side. Each campsite is different," advises an experienced RVer at Coyote Lake.
Full hookups: Some glamping sites near Hollister offer comprehensive RV services. "The RV sites have both water and electric hookups which was great! There is a very convenient FREE dump station just inside the entrance to the park that we used as we departed," notes a Mount Madonna visitor appreciating the amenities.
Winter camping considerations: Off-season glamping requires preparation. "Very cold on the winter... Big campground because the coronavirus the facility has closed. I just use campground and showers is free hot water showers. Seems like fun on the summer I went on the winter and the place is very cold," shares a San Benito visitor who experienced winter camping.
