Valley View Campground
05 reviewsSan Juan Canyon Road off Hwy. 156, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045
Valley View 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; includes one car. Additional vehicles cost $6 each. A reservation fee of $7.99 applies when booking online or via phone.
About this campground
Perched high above the coastal fog, Valley View Campground invites adventurers to experience camping the way it was meant to be—beneath ancient oak canopies and endless starlit skies. This collection of 25 primitive campsites within Fremont Peak State Park offers a rare combination of solitude and spectacle, where the Monterey Bay stretches out below like a shimmering canvas. Here, away from city lights, the Milky Way reveals itself in all its glory, making this a cherished destination for stargazers and nature lovers alike.
Valley View Campground offers primitive camping options. It caters to tent and RV campers and provides a solitary group camping option. Sites are primitive with no electricity, water, or sewer hookups.
Historical SignificanceThis mountaintop holds stories that stretch back millennia. Long before any campfire was lit here by modern visitors, the Ohlone people called these oak-studded slopes home, their presence woven into the very soil. The land later witnessed a pivotal moment in American history when Captain John C. Fremont planted the American flag here in 1846, a bold act during the Mexican-American War that would help shape California's destiny. Today's campers sleep where history was made, adding their own chapters to this storied peak.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances to its own rhythm, creating a microclimate that can surprise even seasoned campers. Summer nights whisper cool at 50°F while afternoons can soar to a warm 90°F, perfect for those who love both cozy sleeping bags and sun-drenched hiking. Winter transforms the landscape into something more mysterious—dense fog rolls through the oaks like ancient spirits, ice crystals glitter on morning grass, and occasional snow dustings remind visitors they're truly in the mountains. One April visitor noted the dramatic shift: 'The valley floor was 68 degrees and the peak was 48, a twenty-degree difference' in just a short drive upward.
ElevationAt 3,169 feet above sea level, Valley View Campground offers more than just altitude—it provides perspective. This elevation lifts you above the coastal fog layer, delivering crystalline night skies that amateur astronomers dream about. The height brings a natural air conditioning system too, offering refreshing relief from valley heat and creating perfect conditions for both comfortable camping and spectacular stargazing.
Natural Features and SceneryThe journey to Valley View is as breathtaking as the destination itself. The winding drive up San Juan Canyon Road rewards visitors with ever-expanding panoramic views of Monterey Bay, the San Benito Valley, Salinas Valley, and the Santa Lucia Mountains east of Big Sur. Once at camp, majestic oak woodlands provide natural shade structures while native grasslands ripple golden in the breeze. From your tent site, watch hawks circle on thermals by day and city lights twinkle like earthbound constellations by night. The Gavilan Range unfolds in every direction, offering a 360-degree natural amphitheater that makes even the simplest sunset feel like a grand performance.
Geological RegionValley View Campground sits proudly within the Gavilan Mountain Range, a lesser-known gem of California's Coast Ranges. This ancient landscape tells a geological story written in oak-covered ridges and grass-swept valleys. The Gavilans create a unique ecosystem where coastal influences meet inland characteristics, resulting in a biodiversity hotspot. From your campsite, you'll witness how these mountains serve as a natural divider, creating distinct climate zones and offering unparalleled views of both the fertile valleys below and the Pacific-kissed Monterey Bay in the distance.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible tent camping and accessible non-flush toilets are located in each loop of the campground. Campsite 13 is accessible and has nearby vault restrooms. Additionally, a ramp leads to the observatory for accessibility.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some accommodating up to 8 people and two vehicles. Tent pads measure approximately 15 by 10 feet.
Sites PrivacySites are oak-shaded but privacy levels are not explicitly detailed in the sources.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 5 offers ample space and access to fire rings. "My two kids and I camped in site 5, which had ample space to spread out and have a fire."
Best CampsitesSites 5-7 are noted as the best for space and views. "Campsites 5-7 seem to be the best ones."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is two consecutive nights without forfeiting subsequent reservations if the site is unused on the first night.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per campsite.
Groups
Doe Flats Group Camp accommodates up to 50 campers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutPrimitive campsites are dispersed within oak woodlands, with partial shade and panoramic views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance.
Reservation PlatformsReservations handled through ReserveCalifornia at www.reservecalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityFour sites (1, 12, 14, 15) are non-reservable and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made at least 24 hours before arrival via ReserveCalifornia for partial refunds.
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
Valley View Campground offers recreational activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. The Fremont Peak Observatory provides astronomy programs from April through October, making it a highlight for visitors. Trails around the park offer moderate hiking opportunities with breathtaking views, including a 360-degree vista of Monterey Bay from the peak.
Hiking
"Visitors and campers can walk along four miles of moderate trails." - Authoritative source.Biking
"Bike trails are listed as available." - Park information.Wildlife viewing
"Visitors may see coyotes, snakes, bobcats, raccoons, alligator lizards, and foxes." - Authoritative source. The park is also home to birds such as chickadees, finches, hummingbirds, thrushes, and woodpeckers.Cultural and Educational Programs
The observatory hosts astronomy programs featuring presentations and telescope viewing. "The Fremont Peak Observatory Association is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing astronomy to the public."Winter Activities
Occasional snowfall occurs in winter, but activities like snowshoeing or skiing are not detailed.Water Sports
Not applicable; water-based sports are not mentioned in the sources.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood or charcoal fires allowed only outside fire season in designated fire rings. "Fires must be monitored at all times."
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsFog can reduce visibility; potholes and blind curves on access roads. Campfires banned during fire season. "The mountain was shrouded in fog which still was pretty awesome."
Active alertsAs of May 2024, no fires are allowed. Fire conditions subject to change throughout the year.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 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 for fire-related emergencies or inquiries. Closest hospitals and police stations unspecified.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates not explicitly defined.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are mentioned in the sources.
Proximity to water featuresNo major water features within the campground.
Common complaintsBathrooms lack running water and can produce unpleasant odors. "The bathrooms don’t have running water. This means you don’t want your site to be downwind of the 🚽."
HostNo information about campground hosts provided.
Campground Map
San Juan Canyon Road off Hwy. 156, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045
Driving directionsOff Highway 156, travel 11 miles south of San Juan Bautista on San Juan Canyon Road. The route is winding and mountainous, with many blind curves and potholes. Trailers or vehicles over 25 feet are not recommended.
Accessible via paved San Juan Canyon Road, but challenging due to winding canyons and ridges. Seasonal closures not mentioned.Nearby places
San Juan Bautista: 11 miles (~30 minutes). Monterey: ~43 miles (~1-2 hours depending on traffic). Santa Cruz: ~46 miles (~1-2 hours depending on traffic).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel available in nearby towns. No on-site wood sales
firewood must be purchased beforehand from local stores.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Valley View Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the spectacular views and stargazing opportunities but note weather variability and the lack of running water as common concerns. The campground offers an authentic and primitive camping experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
"Great views from above the clouds." - Sterling Witty. "Arrived expecting views for days." - Brent Pearse. "Fabulous view of sunset over the Bay." - Brett Poole.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
"Bathrooms don’t have running water." - Sterling Witty. "Fog shrouded the mountain, limiting views." - Brent Pearse.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Buy firewood before arriving as none is available on-site. Arrive early for astronomy programs to avoid disrupting night vision with headlights.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted as the most colorful seasons. "Summer temperatures can reach 90 degrees during the day, and at night they can drop to as low as 50 degrees." - Authoritative source.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great views from above the clouds if you aren’t in the cloud." - Sterling Witty. "The drive up Old San Juan make this campground an experience all its own." - Brent Pearse.
Based on 5 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
"Campsites 5-7 seem to be the best ones." - Brett Poole.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible tent camping and vault toilets are praised for inclusivity. "Campsite 13 in Valley View Campground is accessible." - Authoritative source.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but dogs are not permitted on trails.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025