Ada / Ranch Campground
02 reviews7800 Cienega Road, Hollister, CA 95023
Ada / Ranch Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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 costs $10 per vehicle per night. Day-use is $5 per vehicle.
About this campground
Nestled within the adventurous terrain of Hollister Hills SVRA, Ada/Ranch Campground beckons those who crave authentic outdoor experiences. This primitive tent camping haven strips away modern distractions, offering only the essentials—pit toilets and endless trails—making it the perfect basecamp for OHV enthusiasts ready to explore California's rugged backcountry.
Ada / Ranch Campground offers multiple camping options, including tent camping and ADA-accessible campsites.
Historical SignificanceCamp on storied ground where centuries of California history converge. These hills once echoed with the footsteps of the Ohlone people, who called this land home for thousands of years. Later, Spanish colonists incorporated the area into the vast Rancho San Justo and Rancho Cienega del Gabilan land grants, weaving another chapter into this landscape's rich tapestry. Today, you'll explore the same rugged terrain that has captivated inhabitants throughout the ages.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of California's inland climate at Ada/Ranch. Summer days soar into the low to mid-90s, perfect for early morning rides before the heat sets in. Winter brings crisp mornings in the low 30s warming to comfortable afternoons in the upper 50s—ideal for all-day adventures. Be mindful during rainy seasons when the adobe clay soil transforms certain areas into impassable terrain, adding an element of natural challenge to your stay.
ElevationJourney through a dramatic vertical landscape that climbs from 660 feet to an impressive 2,425 feet within the park boundaries. This nearly 1,800-foot elevation change creates a dynamic playground of ridgelines, valleys, and sweeping vistas that reward adventurers with ever-changing perspectives and terrain challenges at every turn.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where majestic oak woodlands crown rolling hills and hidden canyons reveal seasonal creeks that sparkle after winter rains. The powerful San Andreas Fault has sculpted this terrain into a geological masterpiece, creating distinct ecological zones that transition from dense woodland groves to open grasslands, each offering its own unique beauty and riding experience.
Geological RegionDiscover the fascinating geological story written in the rocks of the Gabilan Mountains, where the mighty San Andreas Fault divides the landscape into two distinct worlds. On one side, challenging clay-rich adobe soil tests your skills when wet; on the other, sandy granitic terrain provides year-round riding opportunities. This geological diversity creates an ever-changing outdoor playground that keeps even seasoned adventurers coming back for more.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible campsites are available in the Lower Ranch area, specifically at Lodge, Bee, and Madrone campgrounds. These sites come with accessible restrooms and parking facilities.
Sites SizeStandard sizes suitable for tents and RVs; no specifications on site dimensions.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are in open areas, and privacy features are not explicitly noted.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesHudner Ranch requires high-clearance vehicles and tents only. It is recommended for primitive camping enthusiasts.
Best CampsitesSpecific site recommendations are not available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is flexible for first-come-first-serve sites.
Check-out
Checkout is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 15 days with no more than 30 days in a year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific limit of guests per site mentioned.
Groups
Specific group camping areas are not designated at Ada / Ranch Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes primitive tent sites with pit toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; however, some areas are subject to seasonal closures due to soil conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable except for Hudner Ranch (via phone: 831-637-3874).
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites in the Lower Ranch and Upper Ranch are first-come, first-serve. Availability is determined at the onsite kiosk.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-applicable except for remote Hudner Ranch sites and ADA campsites. All other sites are first-come, first-serve.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
WiFi
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Ada / Ranch Campground supports a wide range of recreational activities, particularly focused on off-highway vehicles (OHVs) such as dirt bikes and ATVs. Other activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, and educational programs tailored for families and children.
Hiking
The Nature Area in the Lower Ranch features approximately 5 miles of trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking. The Beck Trek self-guided trail brochure provides additional exploration opportunities.Biking
Biking trails are available in the Nature Area, which supports non-motorized recreational opportunities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include spotting federally-listed species such as California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog, along with hawks and mountain lions.Cultural and Educational Programs
The OHV Junior Ranger Program provides educational opportunities related to trail knowledge and safety for youngsters aged 6-11. Interactive events also include cultural and natural history programs.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned as specific offerings at Ada / Ranch Campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not applicable to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Ground fires are prohibited; fires must use state-provided rings. Firewood must be purchased onsite.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to sunrise.
Hazards
General hazardsBe cautious of ticks, rattlesnakes, and poison oak. Wet adobe clay soil can be hazardous for vehicles.
Active alertsSeasonal closures apply to certain trails and areas due to wet soil. Check ahead before visiting.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest hospital: Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital in Hollister (approximately 6 miles, 12 minutes). Police station: Hollister Police Department (approximately 6 miles). Ranger station with first aid services is on site.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak seasons include Thanksgiving week and Easter week.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available but details on recycling are unavailable. Visitors are encouraged to follow park regulations for waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresSeasonal creeks are nearby, but no major water bodies are mentioned.
Common complaintsLimited cell service and occasional overcrowding during peak holidays.
HostRangers and kiosk staff are available onsite, but specific host details are not provided.
Campground Map
7800 Cienega Road, Hollister, CA 95023
Driving directionsFrom Union Road, head south on Cienega Road. At the stop sign, turn right to continue on Cienega Road. Drive approximately 5 miles; the main entrance is on the right.
The campground is accessible via paved roads up to the entrance. Seasonal closures may affect access to certain areas due to wet adobe clay soil.Nearby places
Hollister (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Salinas (approximately 30 miles, 40 minutes), San Jose (approximately 50 miles, 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
The park store in Lodge Campground sells firewood, ice, propane, camping supplies, snacks, and motorcycle parts. Closest grocery stores are in Hollister, 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Ada / Ranch Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground as a family-friendly, quiet location with convenient amenities such as warm showers and free Wi-Fi. Visitors enjoy the trails and the natural beauty of the Lower Ranch area.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Warm showers, availability of Wi-Fi in the Lower Ranch campgrounds, and overall cleanliness of the facilities are frequently praised. The Troll Trail is mentioned as a favorite for those seeking a...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Cell phone service is minimal and could be frustrating for visitors relying on communication. Additionally, some trails are closed seasonally due to soil conditions.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to arrive early, especially during peak holidays like Thanksgiving and Easter, as the campgrounds often reach full capacity. The use of free Wi-Fi in select campgrounds is...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that Red Sticker operation is only permitted between October 1 and May 31, which impacts OHV accessibility and activity offerings during summer months.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "This place is so fun. Warm showers, wifi, a great shop for OHV needs... trails are fun. Troll trail is really fun if you want a bit of a challenge." (Jake Miller) 2. "Great place for the entire...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specific to individual campsites were not provided.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
The availability of ADA-accessible campsites and facilities at Lodge, Bee, and Madrone campgrounds is noted positively by visitors with disabilities.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs on leashes are permitted in day-use and camping areas, and the Nature Area and Mudstone Ranch allow dogs. Pet-related reviews indicate satisfaction with the park’s pet policies.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025