Oak Point Campground
03 reviewsSan Juan Canyon Road off Hwy. 156, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045
Oak Point Campground
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fee is $25 per site per night and includes one car. Additional vehicles cost $6 each. Reservation fee of $7.99 applies.
About this campground
Escape to Oak Point Campground, where 25 secluded campsites await beneath a canopy of ancient oaks, each offering breathtaking vistas of Monterey Bay stretching to the horizon. This pristine wilderness retreat invites you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's simple pleasures. Each thoughtfully placed site comes equipped with a sturdy picnic table for memorable outdoor meals and a fire ring perfect for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilet facilities, the primitive experience only enhances the authentic connection to the surrounding wilderness.
Oak Point Campground offers primitive tent camping in a natural, oak-shaded setting. RVs under 25 feet can access some campsites, but no hookups or modern facilities are provided.
Historical SignificanceThese oak-studded hills whisper stories of centuries past, from the Ohlone people who first called this land home to the dramatic events that helped shape California's destiny. In 1846, these very peaks witnessed explorer John C. Fremont's tense standoff with Mexican forces—a pivotal moment in the state's journey toward American statehood. As you wander the trails or sit quietly by your campfire, you're walking in the footsteps of Native Americans who gathered acorns from these same oaks and early settlers who gazed upon these same sweeping vistas while California's future hung in the balance.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps things interesting at Oak Point year-round, painting each season with its own dramatic flair. Summer days can sizzle at a toasty 90°F, perfect for lazy afternoon naps in the shade, before plunging to a crisp 50°F once darkness falls—ideal for cozy campfire conversations. Winter transforms the landscape into a mysterious wonderland where morning fog drifts through the oaks like ancient spirits, occasionally leaving delicate frost patterns on tent fabric. On rare magical mornings, you might even wake to find a dusting of snow adorning the oak branches. The mountain's moody weather demands respect—pack those layers and prepare for nature's full repertoire of atmospheric performances.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 3,169 feet above sea level, Oak Point Campground offers a natural air conditioning system courtesy of Mother Nature herself. This lofty elevation provides a refreshing escape from valley heat while serving up panoramic views that seem to stretch forever. The thin mountain air carries a crispness that awakens your senses, while the elevated perspective transforms everyday sunrises and sunsets into spectacular light shows across the distant bay.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living nature documentary where ancient oaks create a woodland cathedral and wildlife performs daily for attentive observers. Cheerful chickadees and vibrant finches provide the soundtrack, flitting from branch to branch in endless aerial acrobatics. Keep your camera ready—elusive bobcats occasionally grace lucky campers with a glimpse of their spotted coats, while industrious woodpeckers tap out nature's morse code on weathered bark. As you climb higher on the surrounding trails, the tree canopy opens to reveal a breathtaking tapestry of valleys and mountain ranges painted in ever-changing light.
Geological RegionOak Point Campground crowns the majestic Gavilan Mountain Range, a geological masterpiece that serves as nature's observation deck for some of California's most stunning landscapes. From this privileged vantage point, watch morning fog roll across Monterey Bay like a slow-motion ocean, while the agricultural patchwork of San Benito and Salinas valleys spreads below like a giant quilt. To the west, the dramatic Santa Lucia Mountains rise from the mist, their rugged peaks catching the last golden rays of sunset in a daily spectacle that never grows old.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible tent camping and accessible non-flush toilets are located in each loop of the campground. Campsites 17 and 19 are ADA-accessible. Accessible vault restrooms are nearby.
Sites SizeCampsites can accommodate tents, but space may be limited for larger setups. One user mentioned, 'There was little space for a larger tent, ours is about 9x13 feet and there was only 1 spot it would fit.'
Sites PrivacyCampsite privacy varies, with some sites offering seclusion while others are more exposed. 'Most spots have very little privacy,' one reviewer observed, while another stated, 'Site itself was very private, cut off from the other sites.'
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 25 offers great views but limited privacy. Sites towards the back of the campground are slightly more secluded.
Best CampsitesSites 5, 7, and 25 are rated as the best for views and overall experience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Reservations must be made for a minimum of one night, and campers must arrive before noon the day after their arrival date to avoid forfeiting their reservation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 8 people per site.
Groups
One group site called Doe Flats accommodates up to 50 campers, providing space for larger gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of individual sites arranged in a loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; however, fire restrictions are seasonal, typically from June to November.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through www.ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityThere are 4 first-come, first-served sites (1, 12, 14, 15). Early arrival on Friday is recommended for weekend stays due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made online or via phone with ReserveCalifornia at least 24 hours in advance to receive a partial refund.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Oak Point Campground offers visitors opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and stargazing due to its proximity to Fremont Peak's astronomical observatory. The campground's location provides stunning views of Monterey Bay and surrounding valleys.
Hiking
Four miles of moderate trails are available within Fremont Peak State Park, offering expansive views and opportunities for wildlife observation. One reviewer praised the Peak trail as being 'incredible.'Biking
Bike trails are accessible within Fremont Peak State Park, although details specific to Oak Point Campground are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
The park's oak and pine woodlands host diverse wildlife, including birds, coyotes, bobcats, and more. Reviewers have appreciated the opportunities for nature observation.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground benefits from Fremont Peak State Park's cultural and educational programs, such as guided tours and historical exhibits about the Ohlone people and John C. Fremont.Winter Activities
Winter conditions at Fremont Peak may include dense fog, ice, and occasional snow, but no specific winter activities are noted.Water Sports
Kayaking and other water sports are not available at this location.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood or charcoal fires are permitted in designated fire rings only when fire conditions allow. Gas stoves are recommended during fire season.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include windy conditions, wildlife (coyotes, snakes), and occasional icy roads in winter. Fire restrictions apply seasonally.
Active alertsFire conditions change throughout the year; wood and charcoal fires are typically banned from June to November.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
San Juan Bautista State Historic Park at 831-623-4881.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities were provided. Campers are expected to maintain cleanliness and dispose of trash responsibly.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features in close proximity. Fishing is available at Lake McAlpine RV Park nearby.
Common complaintsUser reviews mentioned dirty restrooms, windy conditions at certain sites, and lack of privacy at most sites.
Campground Map
San Juan Canyon Road off Hwy. 156, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045
Driving directionsOff of Highway 156, 11 miles south of San Juan Bautista on San Juan Canyon Road. The road is paved but winds through canyons and over ridges and is not recommended for vehicles over 25 feet in length.
San Juan Canyon Road is paved but has tight turns and winds through canyons and over ridges. Trailers or vehicles over 25 feet are not recommended.Nearby places
San Juan Bautista, 11 miles
Monterey, 43 miles
Santa Cruz, 46 miles.
Nearby supplies
Lake McAlpine & Park on Anzar Road, San Juan Bautista provides camping supplies and a fishing pond
additional supplies can be found in nearby San Juan Bautista.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Oak Point Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, highlighting the stunning views and natural setting but pointing out limitations like basic facilities and privacy concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include breathtaking views, clean restrooms, and shaded campsites. One user stated, 'The sunset views are amazing,' while another appreciated the site's privacy: 'Site itself was...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints often focus on small campsite sizes, lack of maintenance, and windy conditions. For example, one user noted, 'Dirty restroom. No bathroom. Low maintenance,' while another mentioned wind...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend choosing sites in the back for privacy, being prepared for wind, and bringing a gas stove as fires may be banned.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer camping benefits from shaded sites, but reviewers warn of wind and flies. Late fall offers a quieter experience with fewer insects and cooler weather.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The sunset views are amazing.' 2. 'Most spots have very little privacy, and can be quite small.' 3. 'Restrooms are clean.' 4. 'Site itself was very private, cut off from the other sites.'
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Best sites are noted as 5, 7, and 25 for views and accessibility. Site 24 received mixed reviews; one camper praised its privacy and views, while another criticized maintenance and missing amenities.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Campsites 17 and 19 are accessible, with nearby vault toilets. One reviewer mentioned ADA site availability and ease of parking.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground but not on trails. Leashes must be 6 feet or shorter, and owners are advised to maintain control at all times.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025