Basalt Campground
4.4137 reviews31426 Gonzaga Road, Gustine, CA 95322
Basalt Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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
Fees are $28 per night for camping and an additional $8 reservation fee. Coin-operated showers cost $0.50 for two minutes.
About this campground
Tucked into a sheltered valley near the shimmering waters of San Luis Reservoir, Basalt Campground welcomes adventurers with 79 thoughtfully designed family campsites. Here, mature trees cast cooling shadows over sites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, while convenient water faucets dot the landscape. Visitors consistently praise the tranquil atmosphere, where pristine facilities blend seamlessly with sweeping vistas of California's rolling hills, creating an ideal basecamp for both relaxation and exploration.
Basalt Campground accommodates tent camping, RVs, and trailers. There are no group, cabin, or glamping sites.
Historical SignificanceThis land tells a story spanning millennia, from the Northern Valley Yokuts who first called these hills home to the Spanish explorers and Mexican rancheros who followed the ancient trails through nearby Pacheco Pass. Today's reservoir stands as a testament to California's ambitious water management legacy, where the monumental Central Valley Project meets the California State Water Project in an engineering marvel that sustains millions while preserving pockets of natural beauty for generations to enjoy.
Weather and SeasonsExperience California's dramatic seasonal tapestry at Basalt, where summer days blaze with temperatures soaring past 100°F before giving way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for stargazing. Winter brings a gentler touch, with mild days occasionally wrapped in mysterious tule fog that transforms the landscape into an ethereal wonderland. Spring paints the hillsides with vibrant wildflower blooms, though adventurers should stay alert for the sudden winds that can sweep across the open terrain any time of year.
ElevationPerched at 544 feet above sea level, Basalt Campground occupies a sweet spot in California's topography where moderate elevations create an ideal climate for year-round camping. This gentle altitude offers panoramic views across the surrounding landscape while keeping temperatures more comfortable than the valley floor below, making every sunrise and sunset a spectacular show from your campsite.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to golden light spilling across grass-covered hills dotted with ancient oaks, their gnarled branches framing views of pristine wetlands that attract an incredible diversity of wildlife. This is Basalt Campground, where lucky visitors might spot majestic tule elk grazing at dawn, catch a glimpse of an elusive bobcat, or watch deer emerge from the shadows at dusk. Overhead, the sky becomes a theater where bald eagles soar alongside their golden cousins, making this campground a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Geological RegionBasalt Campground sits at the heart of the western San Joaquin Valley's most captivating landscape, where ancient geological forces created a stunning mosaic of grass-swept hills and oak woodlands near the historic Pacheco Pass. This unique ecosystem features seasonal vernal pools that burst with life after winter rains and diverse wetland habitats that support an extraordinary array of plant and animal species. The interplay of rolling topography, scattered oaks, and water features creates a California landscape that feels both timeless and constantly changing with the seasons.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBasalt Campground offers accessibility features such as designated accessible campsites (#20, 35, 36, 40, 51, 56, and 73), accessible combination restrooms with showers, and parking spaces adjacent to each restroom.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate trailers and motor homes up to 30 feet in length.
Sites PrivacySites offer a mix of privacy levels. Some campers mentioned shaded and secluded sites while others noted open layouts.
Total Campsites79 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites offering the most shade and privacy include 8, 20, and 24. Sites such as 19 face beautiful hills, providing excellent views.
Best Campsites8, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 26, 28, 29, 45, 50, 51, 55, 56, 58, 60, 61, 62, 71.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Stay limited to 15 consecutive days per campsite and 30 days total within California State Parks in a year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight guests per developed campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are laid out in loops with accessible sites dispersed throughout. Sites feature tables, fire rings, and nearby water faucets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; temporarily closed as of May 31, 2022, for Dam Safety Project.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability varies; visitors have noted discrepancies between online availability and actual site occupancy.
Cancellation PolicyReservation holders are contacted directly via ReserveCalifornia.com in case of closures. Specific penalty-free cancellation conditions are not provided.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Basalt Campground is near various recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The Basalt Campground Trail begins west of the campground road and is an easy half-mile walk. Other trails nearby include the Lone Oak Trail (6 miles round trip) and San Luis Creek Accessible Trail (5 miles).Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the nearby San Luis Reservoir. Anglers catch species such as largemouth black bass, striped bass, crappie, shad, perch, and occasionally salmon and sturgeon. Note that harmful algae blooms may impact fishing safety.Biking
Biking opportunities are available in the surrounding area, with trails suitable for casual rides.Boating
Boating is available at the nearby San Luis Reservoir. However, the Basalt boat ramp is temporarily closed due to the Safety of Dams Project.Wildlife viewing
Campers have reported seeing tule elk, deer, and various bird species during their stay. One review noted observing a bobcat, bunnies, and a bull elk.Cultural and Educational Programs
Spring programs include 'Path of the Padres' guided hikes that explore the area's cultural history, wildlife, and natural features.Winter Activities
Winter activities include wildlife viewing and hiking. Foggy conditions are common but provide a unique experience.Water Sports
Nearby San Luis Creek offers jet ski rentals and opportunities for water sports such as windsurfing and board sailing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in grills and fire rings. Firewood is sold by the camp host for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include high winds, sudden temperature changes, and occasional tule fog. Wildlife such as snakes and bobcats may pose risks. Algal blooms in nearby waters have been noted.
Active alertsTemporary closure as of May 31, 2022, due to Safety of Dams Project.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 13.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Nearest emergency service is CAL-FIRE located at Gonzaga Road, and the closest hospital is in Los Banos, approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day weekends are peak season for camping.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but recycling-specific facilities are not mentioned in authoritative sources or reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near San Luis Reservoir. Water levels fluctuate, affecting access and fishing conditions.
Common complaintsNoise disturbances from other campers during peak times. Some reports of bugs, especially during warmer months, and algal bloom concerns for fishing.
HostCamp host available on-site, providing firewood and ensuring campsite regulations are followed.
Campground Map
31426 Gonzaga Road, Gustine, CA 95322
Driving directionsLocated on Highway 152, 7 miles west of I-5 or 33 miles east of Highway 101 from Gilroy. Enter through Pacheco Pass, which can be foggy and challenging to navigate. Once you enter the Basalt entrance station, the campground is easy to access.
Access is primarily via Highway 152. Pacheco Pass can be tricky due to fog and sharp curves. Roads within the campground are paved and accessible.Nearby places
Los Banos (20 miles), Gilroy (33 miles), Gustine (7 miles), Santa Nella (5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Chevron gas station (open 24 hours) and basic supplies available 1 mile down the road. Firewood bundles are sold for $10 by the ranger or $8 at Chevron.
Camper Reviews
4.4
37 reviews
Basalt Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Basalt Campground are mixed. Positive highlights include clean facilities, peaceful off-season experiences, and abundant wildlife. Complaints often center around noise disturbances, fly infestations, and misleading reservation information.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the campground for clean bathrooms and showers, scenic views, and ample wildlife sightings. Off-season camping is frequently described as peaceful and enjoyable.
Based on 37 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise issues due to loud music and partying groups have been reported during busy periods. Some campers also complained about fly infestations during summer months and misleading reservation website...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for showers (50 cents per two minutes). Avoid noisy periods by camping in the off-season. Bring firewood as it is sold on-site for $10 per bundle but can be more affordable if brought...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Off-season camping is preferred by many due to fewer bugs, cooler weather, and quiet surroundings. Summer months may have higher temperatures and bugs.
Based on 37 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Loved it! Beautiful, peaceful, and all to ourselves." - Denny Latham
- "If you are lucky, this is a nice place for camping." - Huseyin K.
- "Great campsite with lots of shade, flush toilets,...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Best campsites: #8, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 26, 28, 29, 45, 50, 51, 55, 56, 58, 60, 61, 62, 71. Sites #19 and #24 are highlighted for scenic views and privacy.
Based on 37 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites (#20, 35, 36, 40, 51, 56, and 73) are noted for their proximity to restrooms and level ground.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and most campers bring their dogs. Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and must not be left unattended.
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025