Join the fun near Los Banos. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.
Pinnacles Campground is located in the unique Pinnacles National Park, 32 miles south of Hollister, California. The park encompasses 26,000 acres of spectacular rock formations and remnants of an extinct 23 million-year old volcano. Hiking and rock climbing are very popular activities in Pinnacles, as is watching for the majestic California condor overhead. Pinnacles National Park is a nesting place for the endangered soaring bird, the largest in North America.
Pinnacles National Park has more than 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Many trails intersect, allowing for a short loop or a longer all-day hike. Popular destinations include Bear Gulch Reservoir, High Peaks and the Balconies area. The Bench Trail provides direct access to the park from the campground. Visitors enjoy exploring Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave, which houses a large colony of Townsend's big-eared bats. Bring a flashlight! Rock climbers flock to Pinnacles for the variety of climbing routes that range from easy top-ropes to the multi-pitch climbs along Machete Ridge.
Pinnacles National Park has more than 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Many trails intersect, allowing for a short loop or a longer all-day hike. Popular destinations include Bear Gulch Reservoir, High Peaks and the Balconies area. The Bench Trail provides direct access to the park from the campground. Visitors enjoy exploring Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave, which houses a large colony of Townsend's big-eared bats. Bring a flashlight! Rock climbers flock to Pinnacles for the variety of climbing routes that range from easy top-ropes to the multi-pitch climbs along Machete Ridge.
The campground is situated in a rolling landscape dotted with shady Valley Oak, Blue Oak and Coast Live Oak trees. A gentle, seasonal creek runs through the grounds. Springtime finds Pinnacles bursting with a wide variety of vivid wildflowers that line every trail and fill entire meadows with color. Deer and wild turkeys roam the area, and condors can be viewed from within the campground. The park ranges in elevation from 824 feet along South Chalone Creek to 3,304 feet atop North Chalone Peak.
$129 - $154 / night
Gates close at sunset (open at 6AM) - code is provided to campers for emergency use.
$20 / night
The Medeiros primitive campsites are located along the southern shoreline of O'Neill Forebay. A limited number of fire rings, shade ramadas, and tables are available. Drinking water is available in 3 locations. There are no flush toilets or showers, however chemical toilets are available. All boats must be removed from the water by sunset. Medeiros campground is available on a first - come first - serve basis.
$20 / night
The only campground located near San Luis Reservoir, Basalt has 79 developed family campsites in a shaded, wind-protected valley. Some sites will accommodate trailers and motor homes up to about 30 feet. Each site has a fire ring and table with water faucets nearby. New restroom facilities offer hot pay showers and flushable toilets. A dump station is available to registered campers. Reservations can be made year round.
$28 - $30 / night
Make Your Adventure Memorable Whether you’re a solo traveler or bringing the family, this pet-friendly park has something for everyone. This all-age community is outfitted with picnic areas, a clubhouse for gathering, playsets for children, basketball hoops, a crystal clear pool, and more.
Visitors may choose from 116 drive-in and walk-in reservable campsites spread throughout four campgrounds. Each site comes equipped with a barbecue pit, food locker, and picnic table. Showers are also available (no coins needed) for campers (camping fee required for use of showers), as well as 29 partial hook-up RV sites. Yurts are also available for reservation. These domed-tent like structures come in three different sizes - 16', 20' and 24' offering bunk beds with mattresses, fold out futons and a wrap-around deck.
Overnight camping is one of the most popular activities at Mt. Madonna. View here for more information about tent, yurt and RV camping. There is no longer first-come, first-serve camping sites.
Wide sites on cement pads
Free Wi-Fi and Cable
$50 / night
Monterey Bay RV campground and preserve is nestled in rolling hills about 14 miles south of Hollister, California. The climate is tempered by the ocean, which is only 50 miles to the west, and wildlife is abundant throughout the area. San Benito RV Resort 's modern facilities ensure convenience and comfort. The on-site live entertainment and planned activities keep things interesting. When it's time to explore the area, there are many natural attractions and activities around San Benito RV Resort , such as the Pinnacles National Monument, fresh and salt-water fishing, and golf courses. Visit the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium during your time at Thousand Trails' Monterey Bay RV campground. It's an experience that won't be forgotten! See wildlife & natural attractions from a Monterey Bay RV campground Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at San Benito RV & Camping Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
San Luis Creek Campground
$40 - $200 / night
Group Camping Area
$30 - $200 / night
Pinnacles Campground is located in the unique Pinnacles National Park, 32 miles south of Hollister, California. The park encompasses 26,000 acres of spectacular rock formations and remnants of an extinct 23 million-year old volcano. Hiking and rock climbing are very popular activities in Pinnacles, as is watching for the majestic California condor overhead. Pinnacles National Park is a nesting place for the endangered soaring bird, the largest in North America.
Pinnacles National Park has more than 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Many trails intersect, allowing for a short loop or a longer all-day hike. Popular destinations include Bear Gulch Reservoir, High Peaks and the Balconies area. The Bench Trail provides direct access to the park from the campground. Visitors enjoy exploring Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave, which houses a large colony of Townsend's big-eared bats. Bring a flashlight! Rock climbers flock to Pinnacles for the variety of climbing routes that range from easy top-ropes to the multi-pitch climbs along Machete Ridge.
Pinnacles National Park has more than 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Many trails intersect, allowing for a short loop or a longer all-day hike. Popular destinations include Bear Gulch Reservoir, High Peaks and the Balconies area. The Bench Trail provides direct access to the park from the campground. Visitors enjoy exploring Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave, which houses a large colony of Townsend's big-eared bats. Bring a flashlight! Rock climbers flock to Pinnacles for the variety of climbing routes that range from easy top-ropes to the multi-pitch climbs along Machete Ridge.
The campground is situated in a rolling landscape dotted with shady Valley Oak, Blue Oak and Coast Live Oak trees. A gentle, seasonal creek runs through the grounds. Springtime finds Pinnacles bursting with a wide variety of vivid wildflowers that line every trail and fill entire meadows with color. Deer and wild turkeys roam the area, and condors can be viewed from within the campground. The park ranges in elevation from 824 feet along South Chalone Creek to 3,304 feet atop North Chalone Peak.
$129 - $154 / night
Gates close at sunset (open at 6AM) - code is provided to campers for emergency use.
$20 / night
The Medeiros primitive campsites are located along the southern shoreline of O'Neill Forebay. A limited number of fire rings, shade ramadas, and tables are available. Drinking water is available in 3 locations. There are no flush toilets or showers, however chemical toilets are available. All boats must be removed from the water by sunset. Medeiros campground is available on a first - come first - serve basis.
$20 / night
The only campground located near San Luis Reservoir, Basalt has 79 developed family campsites in a shaded, wind-protected valley. Some sites will accommodate trailers and motor homes up to about 30 feet. Each site has a fire ring and table with water faucets nearby. New restroom facilities offer hot pay showers and flushable toilets. A dump station is available to registered campers. Reservations can be made year round.
$28 - $30 / night
Make Your Adventure Memorable Whether you’re a solo traveler or bringing the family, this pet-friendly park has something for everyone. This all-age community is outfitted with picnic areas, a clubhouse for gathering, playsets for children, basketball hoops, a crystal clear pool, and more.
Visitors may choose from 116 drive-in and walk-in reservable campsites spread throughout four campgrounds. Each site comes equipped with a barbecue pit, food locker, and picnic table. Showers are also available (no coins needed) for campers (camping fee required for use of showers), as well as 29 partial hook-up RV sites. Yurts are also available for reservation. These domed-tent like structures come in three different sizes - 16', 20' and 24' offering bunk beds with mattresses, fold out futons and a wrap-around deck.
Overnight camping is one of the most popular activities at Mt. Madonna. View here for more information about tent, yurt and RV camping. There is no longer first-come, first-serve camping sites.
Scout
The nature minder people closed this down and Panoche hills down due to environmental concerns regarding the decrease in population of a lizard.
Ranger
High priced. Nice people at desk. Damon who helped us park was very friendly. Almost entirely high-priced big rigs, some of whom seem settled here but it's clean, 'orderly,' very quiet. Rigid rules keep the order; nice that no political flags/signs allowed. 2 dog parks and lots of grassy areas to take for a walk. Showers in locker-room/bldg, bathrooms nice and clean. Green grass. Also has laundry with 2.50 wash and.25 dry for 8 min. Skunk wandered by site in the night. Cool train sounds from nearby tracks at night. Was probably the most convenient to San Jose, otherwise we likely would've been in mtns. and too far away from town for our needs at the time. Would not be a regular choice for us.
Guide
Pretty basic place. Level, noisy highway. Very friendly staff clean. I enjoy more of the outdoors so not really my cup of tea. Very narrow spaces.
Guide
Camping spot was clean and a tall fire pit a good distance from the water and bathroom at site 22. Was hot af was the only issue for us, 103 and the sun just hurt. There were plenty of fish and fishing folks on the shore and boats all were catching.
Legend
This place always comes through for us when we need a quiet place to stay when traveling in the area. It's $20/night, there seems to always be room, and it's always been nice and quiet when we stay here.
Sites are hit or miss, so drive around until you find one that suits you. One of these days we'll nab one of the sites to the right of the fork when you enter the campground, but they always seem to be taken.
Good cell reception, pit toilets, trash dumpster (no recycling).
Scout
Our neighbors in A119 talked, played loud music, whooped and laughed loudly until at least 3 am. At about 11 pm, we requested that please keep the noise down and reminded them of the quiet after 10 pm park rule. They said that the rule only applied to loud music and proceeded to make rude comments and told us to call the ranger. No one answered the phone. We called the local police: no noise ordinance in the county. Our neighbors proceeded to increase the volume of their talking, laughing and started hooting (making animal noises) as well. My husband asked them again at about 12 am to please be quiet and they got even louder after that. We moved to a different site and were still able to hear them but the noise level dropped to a more moderate level. We reported them to the ranger the next day but did not get a satisfactory response. There were at least 20 people at that site. The ranger said that 8 people was the limit. Without enforcement, number limits or quiet time rules are meaningless.
Guide
This is an awesome spot, the hike out was absolutely gorgeous. We accessed it from the Palomarin trailhead. Beware, the costal weather can be volatile and you could get flash rain. Also, I highly recommend planning your visit with the sunny weather because it’s easy to pick a day that has endless overcast here, and it’s just not quite as much fun.
Also be careful what campsite you reserve. Some are absolute gems off on the ocean bluff. Others are more inland and packed in
GuideLevel gravel lots. In the middle of an orchard. Friendly and courteous hosts. Bathrooms, showers, laundry room, dumpsite. Quiet place. Easy in and out for overnight. Elks members discount.
ScoutLoud music playing at this hour clearly says quite time is at 10 pm and it’s so loud
Traveler
I didn’t enjoy this campground for years — I’d always drive home, to my cooler coastal home. It is WICKED hot in the summer. But one time, I joined my daughter, who did have a summer reservation, and I changed my mind! They have a pool! The kids are thrilled! There are beautiful tucked away campsites in the shade, by a creek. Really enjoyed cooking in the evenings outside and settling in. By day, of course, the trails are wild, like a moonscape. In spring, it’s a wildflower fantasia.
I was selfishly a little sad when Pinnacles became a national monument, instead of a regional secret. But I’m so glad they got the money, they deserve it! Note: I discovered it because my kids were in rock climbing classes in town, and “this” was the field trip. So exciting to see their first climbing and bouldering outside.
Guide
We had a quick three-day trip here to visit family. The pool is small, yet well-kept and we had it to ourselves every time we went each day. The park was perfect for the kids biking around through the short- and long-term areas.
Scout
Park is closed for few months according to security officer at the entrance/toll booth.
Traveler
Great spot. takes like a whole hour to get there. you’ll lose reception about half way getting there (at least with Verizon you will). i went early August and there was only one other camper van. very quiet. AMAZING sunset view. one of the best i’ve seen. just wished there was signal , for safety reasons.
TravelerCampground is fine. Very hot and very dry after June. No camp fires after June bear gulch caves are also closed after June. Seen a ton of wildlife and over all wasn’t very crowded. Great for star gazing.
Guide
No wifi, bathrooms did not have hot water.
Cool park with extremely friendly and helpful staff. Cannot say enough about the great park rangers and camp hosts.
There were people close by to us with several tents and campers in one spot, not sure how this is monitored.
Spotty T Mobile Service $32 per night
Traveler
I Van Camped at Mercey Hot Springs for 5 days. When I arrived the nights were hot so I decided to take an AC Cabin #10 where I could park right next to the cabin and slept comfortably. I moved to a RV camp site #5 when the temps at night were a more comfortable mid 60s. I love that the hot tubs are available all night long. It allows for long soaks while star gazing. The therapeutic water is magical some of the best I have found. As soon as you enter the pool or hot tubs you feel the smooth water on your skin. The hot tubs are all oversized privet bath tubs that you fill with mineral water of your desired temperature. This is a completely off the grid resorts that has good energy and tranquil atmosphere. It is very clean with clean bath rooms and showers. When I was there in June 2024 they did not have the restaurant open yet but one looks like it is in the near future. They do have snacks, cold drinks, coffee, ice cream and Ice in the front office for purchase. I took the short hike up the hill to see the solar array, while up there I discovered a most amazing triple Labyrinth circle walk that was very mindful experience. I have never seen such a neat labyrinth as this. Truly an amazing stay, I will be back.
GuideThis is a nice place to stay a couple of nights. It’s close to the road yet quiet. The only problem are the mosquitoes and other insects. Carry repellent all the time.
Ranger
I had a big spot and no neighbors my entire half of the campground on a Monday night in June. I was under 2 big oaks that were buzzing with bird activity.
The bathrooms were clean and I had water on my site. I had some AT&T service.
Ranger
Loved everything about this campground! Registration online was really easy as was the check-in process. We stayed in Valley View 1, site 106. There was really no road noise at our site, though a few sites further around the loop did have noise. This particular site has a trail leading directly to the vast network of hiking trails. Huge bonus for us and we were pleasantly surprised that not one person used our site as a cut through. On the subject of hiking, this is a county park that allows dogs on ALL the trails. It’s hard to find that sometimes so we greatly appreciated how dog friendly it was. We didn’t actually encounter anyone else as we hiked, so I can’t attest to whether folks follow the rule that dogs must be on a 6 ft lead on the trails, but they certainly did in the campground. There are quite a few trails that are currently closed due to storm damage, but crews were actively working on them.
While the sites are a little close to each other, those on the outside of the loop had a great deal of privacy. Inner loop sites have none, but would be great if you were camping with friends. We didn’t use the restrooms or showers, but peeked in them anyway. Like everything else in this campground, they were clean and well maintained.
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.
Our friends stayed in one of the yurts and it was great, albeit a little cold for them at night. I believe there are 2 dog friendly yurts. 106RV
What a gem of a campground! We’ll definitely come back!
Important to note that you can actually get a cell signal if you walk to the dump station!
Traveler
Got there around noontime on the Friday of Memorial Day and grabbed the last designated lot. Really awesome area. Beautiful sunset over the mountains. Hiked Laguna Mountain and the Falls. Highly recommended. Toilet was also nice.
Guide
This year MG run was held in Hollister Hills due to Clear Creek being closed. My registration came with free camp spot in the Upper Ranch. For an organized trail run I would give it a 5 star as it was very respectful and actually not loud at all including day light hours.
From a dispersed camp/ camp experience I am giving this a 4 star thats because I knew I was not camping here for a camp experience but an off-road experience with many other off-road enthusiast.
ScoutGreat RV park. Really clean, showers hot and a little food market. Reception really friendly and helpful with good local knowledge. Well kept site.
Guide
We liked the surrounding area and gorgeous rolling hills and while we were able to get a good spot it was not a campground that stood out too much to us. The pool is great though it was too cold to use it while we were there. No sewer hook up but dump station was close from our side. Overall happy with the stay
Guide
This was our hidden lil gets-a-way for my hubby and I to just get done R&R away from the hustle, bustle, and grind of daily life and work.
Peaceful, quiet, and clean where two camping chairs and two single wine coolers, by the calm river and sound silence of nature was our healing remedy.
The bonus was a hop skip and jump away from home, and the price for a secluded spot to just wind down was like winning the lottery for a mind, body, and spirit reset.
Camp attendants were quiet and kept to themselves. Barely seen their presence really.
Short hikes were very serene (just caution of poison ivy/oak?)
Great spot for photo enthusiasts, especially Spring & Fall.
But then change came - transients, garbage and litter, dirty bathrooms, and excessive price hikes!
Definitely not worth 65-95 a night! Especially since the site tenants campsite has accumulated clutter and is an eye sore. Insane!
Sadly, we haven’t been there in over 1.5 years now. Most likely won’t go back.
GuideThe moon , stars, and timing of life could not have lived up better for us and our decision to revisit after a not-so great experience 25 yrs ago!
When my hubby told us, we were going to Hollister for our annual off-roading trip with our grandkids, I immediately became apprehensive and worried of other inconsiderate and dangerous riders, infestation of bugs and ticks (more than I have ever witnessed in my life during my past visit years ago), among garbage and other things.
All the worry was for nothing! This trip could not have been more peaceful, magical, and all the campers were very respectful of others space, quiet and children present.
It was just the right crowd, amount of dispersed visitors, and super clean!!!!
What I liked most was - the presence of caring and kind park rangers! Making sure safety was a priority, but knowing we were there to have fun as well! Thank you!!!
I’m 54, an outdoor enthusiast, and pay a lot of attention to my environment. It was unreal that there was no annoying bugs to be seen anywhere, although I’m sure they were present in. Forest - just not out being annoying. Could be the presence of so many kinds of birds as well. I’ve never seen so much beauty flying around in one place and comfortable with dropping in and saying hello to our grandkids! Made for picture perfect postcards incase any of you visitors love bird watching.
The trails were so well maintained and tracks groomed for safety . I have zero complaints and will definitely be returning!
I everyone of us had an awesome time!
Guide
We love La Grange. It’s been a huge part of our lives over the years where we have taught many how to ride various off-road vehicles and direct bikes over the years. It’s mainly a go to place for our annual trips to let our grandkids break free after a long school year. Lots of family memories there.
But our last few visits have been worrisome to say the least. Trust we get that being our hear comes with some risks and dangers, we’ve been doing this long enough to know part of having fun - means breaking lose and sometimes getting hurt (see pics), but…there’s definitely a difference between fun and obnoxiously reckless.
More careless groups are frequently visiting, driving intoxicated, and allowing their teenagers to whip through wildly and speeding through campsites where small children are playing. There’s even been teenagers double-riding with tiny toddlers hanging on the back, racing, jumping. Spinning donuts in the children’s track area.
Our last visit just over a month or so ago, on a stickfest event day, a young girl came flying up a two -way hill (where the top is a blind spot), and slammed straight into the front of another teenagers truck!!!
At night, wheneveveryone left two guys came pulling into our campsite at 1 am in he morning with an empty trailer right nectvyo our bikes with their lights off. Luckily I scared em off turning on the RV exterior lights.
Sadly, it’s not been like a place for family camping and enjoyment much and more. People are getting wind that it’s a “do-as-you-please,” off-roading area. Nobody overseeing. Not safe- especially for small children.
We're taking a break for awhile. We've moved to another spot last week. It's a two hour drive, but wow! It was like off-roading utopia!
We will miss you La Grange. Thank you for many great memories.
TravelerNice Campsites. Only 5 sites. Bathrooms. Free. First come first serve
Camping near Los Banos, California, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are several campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Los Banos, CA, offers a variety of experiences, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone to enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Los Banos, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Los Banos, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 77 campgrounds and RV parks near Los Banos, CA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Los Banos, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Los Banos, CA is Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park with a 4-star rating from 84 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Los Banos, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Los Banos, CA.
What parks are near Los Banos, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Los Banos, CA that allow camping, notably Pinnacles National Park and Hensley Lake.
