Bates Canyon Campground
05 reviewsBates Canyon Campground
$5.00 - $30.00 / 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
Requires Adventure Pass ($5/day) or Annual Interagency Pass ($30/year)
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About this campground
Escape to a hidden sanctuary where ancient oaks and towering sycamores stand sentinel over your wilderness retreat. This secluded campground, cradled in the embrace of steep mountain walls, offers adventurers a chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's timeless rhythms. Here, where old-growth giants whisper stories of centuries past, you'll find the perfect basecamp for both peaceful reflection and mountain exploration.
The campground provides primitive camping facilities. It caters primarily to tent camping and does not appear to have RV-specific accommodations based on user reviews and authoritative sources.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of mountain seasons at this year-round destination. Winter transforms the campground into a crisp wonderland, with comfortable daytime temperatures hovering between 52°F and 57°F—perfect for invigorating hikes without the crowds. Evenings cool to a refreshing 37°F to 40°F, ideal for gathering around the campfire. As summer unfolds, the mercury climbs to a pleasant 90°F to 92°F, while the canopy of ancient trees provides natural air conditioning. Winter months bring rejuvenating rains that awaken the forest, while summer offers endless blue skies and star-filled nights.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where centuries-old oaks spread their mighty branches overhead, creating a natural sanctuary alongside graceful sycamores that have witnessed countless seasons. The soundtrack to your stay is provided by a melodious creek that dances over smooth stones, its gentle babbling creating the perfect ambiance for restful nights. After winter rains, the soft earth reveals a fascinating story written in tracks—evidence of the deer, raccoons, and other wildlife that call this forest home. Morning light filters through the canopy, creating an ever-changing tapestry of shadows and golden rays that photographers dream about.
Geological RegionThis remarkable campground sits in a natural amphitheater carved by time itself, where steep mountain slopes rise dramatically on all sides, creating an intimate valley that feels worlds away from civilization. The rugged terrain tells a geological story millions of years in the making, while the convergence of mountain creek and ancient forest creates a unique microclimate that supports the magnificent oak and sycamore groves. This protected pocket of wilderness offers both the drama of vertical landscapes and the gentle comfort of streamside camping.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit information about accessibility features found.
Sites SizeUser reviews suggest the sites are close together, impacting privacy.
Sites PrivacyReviews note a lack of privacy due to closely spaced campsites.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #2 recommended for families with children who enjoy climbing trees.
Best CampsitesSite #2, 'best for kids with a climbing tree.'
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 day
Groups
No group camping information available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout6 sites with picnic tables. Sites are described as close to one another as per some user reports.
Open and Closed SeasonJanuary - December
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers limited recreational activities such as hunting and access to nearby wilderness areas, including Sierra Madre Ridge and San Rafael Wilderness.
Wildlife viewing
User review encourages checking out animal tracks after rain and identifying them for fun.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were highlighted.Water Sports
No details about non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water is provided. User reviews mention the challenge of access roads and potential for flooding during rain.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12 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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingAuthoritative sources and reviews emphasize a pack-out-all-trash policy. Some users report trash issues at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresNext to a babbling creek.
Common complaintsSome reviewers noted a lack of shade, trash, unclean restrooms, and proximity of campsites to one another.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Santa Maria: Hwy 166 50 miles east, Cottonwood Cyn. Rd. 7.5 miles southwest.
"2 miles from main road does not describe what you’re dealing with. Don’t trust G maps for estimates." - Claire Wakeley (2023)Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Bates Canyon Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews. Positive highlights include its remote and serene setting, surrounded by oak trees and a babbling creek. Criticisms focus on poor maintenance, trash issues, and lack of amenities like hiking trails and drinking water.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
'Nestled in the steep mountains and situated next to a babbling creek.' 'Majestic old-growth oak trees.' 'Well-drained tent sites.' 'New picnic tables as of 2019.'
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
'Bathrooms are a mess.' 'Camping spots are way too close together.' 'Lots of trash.' 'Lack of shade.' 'No hiking trails.' 'Views are mediocre.'
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring an Adventure Pass or equivalent to avoid fines. Prepare for no potable water and messy bathrooms. Enjoy identifying animal tracks after rain.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Some users report clean and serene conditions during certain seasons, while others complain about drought impacts and poor maintenance affecting the experience.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The real charm of Bates is the serene and dramatic setting.' 2. 'The drought has not been kind, but we’re seeing effects of that everywhere.' 3. 'Don’t bother unless you have 4x4 and enjoy...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 has the best kid climbing tree and is highlighted positively.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed with collars bearing current tags per authoritative guidelines.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025