Camping sites near Los Banos, California provide access to diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 118 feet in the San Joaquin Valley to over 2,000 feet in nearby hills. This central California location experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional fog. Most campgrounds in this region remain open year-round with varying amenities from basic tent sites to full hookup options.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lake McSwain Recreation Area offers excellent wildlife spotting, particularly for bird watchers. "The kids rode their bikes around the campgrounds alllll day. They had a blast!" notes Angie H. about the family-friendly atmosphere at Lake McSwain Recreation Area.
Hiking trails: Pinnacles National Park features unique rock formations and slot canyons accessible from nearby campgrounds. "The Pinnacles have some great hikes, there are bat caves to explore, lakes and slot canyons. We really enjoyed hiking thru caves and tight places. Super fun for adventurous kids," shares Debi R. from Pinnacles Campground.
Archery course: Mount Madonna County Park maintains a 28-target archery trail through wooded terrain. "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," according to April N. who visited the park.
What campers like
Mineral hot springs: Mercey Hot Springs offers therapeutic soaking options with private mineral baths. "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," reports david from Mercey Hot Springs.
Secluded campsites: Mount Madonna County Park provides private sites around the perimeter of camping loops. "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," explains Lori T. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Swimming options: McConnell State Recreation Area offers river access along the Merced River. "Good tent camping. The Merced river runs along the east side of the Park. I think there are beaches but can't confirm it," notes Rich A. when describing the camping setup at McConnell State Recreation Area.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperatures can vary significantly between campgrounds due to elevation differences. "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 April N. about Mount Madonna County Park.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds report active wildlife, requiring proper food storage. "Raccoons are very active here so be sure to lock all of your food away and don't leave anything out through the night," advises Marta T. from Pinnacles Campground, where multiple reviewers mentioned raccoon activity.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the region have spotty connectivity. "Cell service here wasn't good either," mentions Jennifer D. about Thousand Trails San Benito, a common situation at many glamping sites near Los Banos.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming pools: Several campgrounds offer pools for summer cooling. "Summer is not the best time to go. It gets hot and you can't have fires. I went in late June and it was bearable to do an early hike, but bat caves may be closed in summer. That said the nights were beautiful full of stars and warm. They have a pool that will be full of kids but feels really refreshing after a hot hike," explains Sha C. about facilities at Pinnacles Campground.
Campground activities: Thousand Trails San Benito organizes regular programming for children. "This place made it much better, walking trails and daily activities for the family. Had multiple deers wondering the grounds so be sure to put your food away," notes Alberto C. about the McConnell State Recreation Area experience.
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathrooms make family camping more comfortable. "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," shares Quyen W. about Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park.
Tips from RVers
Full-hookup options: Several locations offer complete utility connections. "Large, level sites. Very good rates for a quick stop," notes Mike K. about Santa Nella RV Park, which provides convenient access from major highways.
Dump station access: Many parks provide dump stations even when full hookups aren't available. "Also a dump station on the way out. Can reserve everything. Good area for tenors too," mentions Rick L. regarding Pinnacles Campground facilities.
Site selection advice: Research specific sites before booking for the best RV experience. "Some smaller and uneven spots but worth it. Next to great hikes. Bathrooms are great," advises Tanya B. about Mount Madonna County Park, indicating site variation within the same campground.
