Hudner Ranch Primitive Cg Recreation Campground
01 review7800 Cienega Road, Hollister, CA 95023
Hudner Ranch Primitive Cg Recreation Campground
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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 $10 per vehicle per night. Day-use fee is $5 per vehicle. Non-resident OHV permits are $30.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Hudner Ranch Primitive Campground, where two secluded campsites await adventurous souls willing to navigate rugged four-wheel drive trails. Your reward? A pristine wilderness retreat complete with shaded ramadas, sturdy picnic tables, and propane-friendly fire rings for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. Here, pit toilets and panoramic vistas of golden oak-studded grasslands remind you that the best adventures often require leaving modern conveniences behind.
Hudner Ranch Primitive Campground is tailored for tent camping in a secluded and rugged environment, accessible exclusively to four-wheel-drive vehicles. It is not suitable for RVs or trailers.
Historical SignificanceCamp on ancestral lands where the Mutsun tribe of the Ohlone people once thrived for thousands of years, living in harmony with these rolling hills and oak groves. The late 1700s brought Spanish explorers who established the nearby Mission San Juan Bautista, forever altering the indigenous way of life. Today, Hudner Ranch stands as a window into this layered history, where ancient stories whisper through the wind-swept grasslands.
Weather and SeasonsExperience California's dramatic seasonal tapestry at Hudner Ranch, where winter nights dip into the crisp 30s°F and summer days climb toward the sun-soaked mid-90s°F. Mother Nature adds her own adventure element here—when rains transform the adobe clay soil into an impassable wonderland, the campground closes temporarily, preserving both the landscape and your vehicle from the notorious grip of wet clay.
ElevationNestled within the varied topography of Hollister Hills SVRA, Hudner Ranch occupies a sweet spot in terrain that sweeps from 660 feet to dramatic heights of 2,425 feet. This elevation range creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems, offering campers ever-changing views and temperatures as they explore the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself surrounded by California's quintessential rolling hills, where native grasses dance in the breeze and ancient oaks cast dappled shadows across the clay-rich adobe soil. This North American Plate landscape creates a natural amphitheater of golden grasslands punctuated by dark green oak woodlands, offering photographers and nature lovers an ever-changing canvas of light and texture throughout the day.
Geological RegionDiscover a geological wonderland in the Gabilan Mountains, where Hollister Hills SVRA straddles the meeting point of two mighty tectonic plates. At Hudner Ranch, you'll camp entirely on the North American Plate, characterized by gentle rolling hills blanketed in grasslands and oak woodlands. This stable adobe clay terrain contrasts dramatically with the nearby Pacific Plate's steeper, sandy granitic landscapes, creating a diverse playground for geology enthusiasts and casual explorers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features are not explicitly described for Hudner Ranch Primitive Campground. However, the site's rugged terrain and required four-wheel drive suggest limited accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are standard primitive sizes for tent camping, suitable for small groups.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are located in private settings with scenic views.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFour-wheel drive and high-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing both sites. Hudner Pass is more accessible for novice drivers than other trails.
Best CampsitesHudner Pass and Ohlone are the only two campsites; both offer privacy and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in hours are governed by park staff availability.
Check-out
Checkout is required by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 15 days consecutively, with a maximum of 30 days within a year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site are not explicitly defined for Hudner Ranch Primitive Campground.
Groups
Group sites are not available at Hudner Ranch Primitive Campground. The two individual campsites accommodate small groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutHudner Ranch features two remote campsites in private, scenic locations.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; Hudner Ranch has seasonal closures due to adobe clay soil conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for Hudner Ranch Primitive Campground can only be made via phone at (831) 637-3874.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe two remote campsites at Hudner Ranch require reservations and are not available for walk-ups.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly mentioned.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hudner Ranch offers activities primarily for four-wheeled vehicles, including designated trails that wind through 1,500 acres of rolling hills and oak grasslands. Wildlife viewing and panoramic vistas are prominent features.
Wildlife viewing
Hudner Ranch provides scenic views and opportunities for observing local wildlife such as hawks and native species in the grasslands and oak woodlands.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snow sports are not relevant due to the region's climate and terrain.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable in Hudner Ranch due to the absence of water features.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood and charcoal fires are prohibited; only propane stoves or fire pits are allowed.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to sunrise.
Hazards
General hazardsAdobe clay soil becomes slick and impassable when wet. Visitors are advised to monitor weather conditions.
Active alertsHudner Ranch is subject to seasonal closures during wet conditions to protect safety and natural resources.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.4 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
Closest emergency services are located in Hollister, approximately 5 miles north. The Ranger Station at Hollister Hills SVRA offers basic first aid services.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak seasons are generally undefined but Easter and Thanksgiving weeks are mentioned as high-traffic periods.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are not detailed for Hudner Ranch. Visitors are advised to pack out all trash to preserve the campsite's natural condition.
Proximity to water featuresHudner Ranch does not feature any significant water bodies.
Common complaintsCell service is minimal, and accessibility issues for low-clearance vehicles are frequently mentioned.
HostHost services are not explicitly mentioned for Hudner Ranch.
Campground Map
7800 Cienega Road, Hollister, CA 95023
Driving directionsFrom Union Road in Hollister, head south on Cienega Road. At the stop sign, turn right to continue on Cienega Road. Drive approximately 5 miles. The main entrance to Hollister Hills SVRA is on the right.
The main roads leading to Hollister Hills SVRA are paved and generally accessible year-round. Seasonal closures may affect specific areas due to the unique adobe clay soil condition. Hudner Ranch requires high-clearance vehicles and is not accessible to trailers.Nearby places
Hollister (5 miles, ~10 minutes), Salinas (~45 miles, ~1 hour), San Jose (~50 miles, ~1 hour 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The park store in the Lodge Campground offers firewood, ice, camping supplies, and snacks. Additional supplies can be found in Hollister, approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Hudner Ranch Primitive Cg Recreation Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users appreciate the campground's remote and scenic location, emphasizing the need for a four-wheel drive and high-clearance vehicles. Its simplicity and privacy are valued by campers seeking solitude.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews highlight the campground's 'secluded nature' and 'spectacular views.' One user stated, 'Perfect for those who enjoy primitive camping and value the experience of a remote environment.'
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include the lack of potable water and limited amenities such as showers or trash facilities. One camper noted, 'The pit toilets were functional but not well-maintained.'
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water, firewood alternatives like propane stoves, and preparing for rugged terrain. 'Ensure your vehicle is equipped for off-road driving,' said one user.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is subject to seasonal closures due to Adobe clay soil, which becomes impassable when wet. Winter and spring months may offer lush green landscapes, while summer conditions can be dry...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'Hudner Ranch is a gem for those who enjoy solitude and primitive camping,' and 'Bring all supplies with you—there's nothing on-site, but the views make it worthwhile.'
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Users favored Hudner Pass for its expansive views, while Ohlone was noted for its slightly easier terrain. 'If you want to wake up to panoramic scenery, choose Hudner Pass,' one review suggested.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited due to the rugged terrain and requirement for four-wheel drive. No specific reviews from disabled campers were available.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviewers appreciated the opportunity to bring dogs, emphasizing the importance of leashing pets due to wildlife in the area.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025