Best Campgrounds near Gilroy, CA
Camping near Gilroy, California encompasses a mix of county parks, RV resorts, and state beach campgrounds within a short drive of this agricultural community. Mount Madonna County Park sits in redwood-covered hills between Gilroy and Watsonville, offering tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and yurts. Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park, just 15 minutes from the Gilroy outlets, provides lakeside camping with opportunities for kayaking (boats must be inspected first) and wildlife viewing. Pinnacles National Park campground, accessible from the Gilroy/Hollister side, serves as a gateway to unique rock formations and hiking trails where visitors might spot California condors.
Most campgrounds in the Gilroy area are open year-round, though weather conditions vary significantly by season and elevation. Mount Madonna experiences temperature drops up to 40 degrees cooler than Gilroy, with fog creating damp, chilly conditions, especially at night. Summer brings heat to lower elevations, particularly at Pinnacles National Park, where winter and early spring are ideal for hiking. Cell service is limited or non-existent in canyon areas like Uvas Canyon County Park, where visitors should stock up on supplies before arrival. Reservations are recommended for most campgrounds, with popular sites booking quickly, especially on holiday weekends.
The camping options around Gilroy range from natural settings to more developed facilities. RV-focused properties like Gilroy Garlic USA RV Park and Thousand Trails Morgan Hill offer full hookups, WiFi, and amenities such as pools and dog parks, while remaining close to shopping and services. County parks provide a more rustic experience with hiking trails, picnic areas, and basic facilities. According to reviews, Mount Madonna features unique attractions including white fallow deer enclosures and an archery trail with 28 targets. One visitor noted, "It feels very rural when you are in the campground, however civilization isn't far away." Families appreciate the proximity to both natural areas and day trip opportunities to Monterey, Santa Cruz beaches, and other Central California attractions.