San Luis Creek Campground
4.15197 reviews31426 Gonzaga Road, Gustine, CA 95322
San Luis Creek Campground
$40.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$40.00
Premium Site Fee$40.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard campsite fees are $40 per night. An additional reservation fee of $8.25 per booking is charged.
About this campground
Nestled along the sparkling waters of O'Neill Forebay, San Luis Creek Campground offers 53 well-appointed sites where modern comfort meets natural beauty. Each spacious site features water and electric hookups, level pads perfect for any RV or tent setup, and comes complete with fire rings and picnic tables for memorable outdoor dining. The expansive, open landscape invites you to experience California's big sky country, where panoramic views stretch to the horizon. A convenient dump station serves registered campers, ensuring a comfortable stay in this windswept paradise.
San Luis Creek Campground primarily caters to RV camping but also accommodates tents. Group camping sites are available, accommodating large groups with amenities such as shade ramadas, tables, and fire rings.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with centuries of human stories, where the Northern Valley Yokuts first made their home among these rolling hills. Spanish missionaries once traversed these lands, leaving behind tales of exploration and cultural exchange. The echoes of the Old West still resonate here, from the thundering hooves of cattle raids in the 1800s to the transformation of wilderness into productive agricultural lands that helped feed a growing nation. Your campsite sits at the crossroads of California's indigenous, Spanish, and American frontier heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of California's Central Valley climate, where summer days sizzle with temperatures soaring above 100°F before giving way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for stargazing. Winter brings a different magic, with 8-9 inches of annual rainfall transforming the landscape and mysterious tule fogs rolling across the water like nature's own special effects. Be prepared for the valley's signature winds that sweep across the open terrain, adding an element of wild adventure to your camping experience.
ElevationElevation details are not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to breathtaking vistas where grassy hills paint a changing canvas throughout the seasons—emerald green carpets in spring that transform into waves of golden California grass by summer. The shimmering O'Neill Forebay serves as your backyard, its waters reflecting the endless sky and providing a playground for both recreation and wildlife watching. Keep your binoculars handy for spectacular birding opportunities, from the majestic sight of bald eagles soaring overhead to hawks circling on thermal currents and diverse waterfowl creating ripples across the water. During migration seasons, the area becomes a bustling avian highway, offering front-row seats to one of nature's greatest shows.
Geological RegionDiscover the gateway to California's great Central Valley, where San Luis Creek Campground sits in the shadow of the historic Pacheco Pass. This remarkable landscape tells the geological story of ancient wetlands and vast prairie grasslands that once stretched as far as the eye could see. The surrounding hills, sculpted by millennia of wind and weather, create a stunning backdrop that shifts from verdant spring greens to the iconic golden-brown hues of California summer. This western edge of the San Joaquin Valley represents one of California's most dramatic ecological transformations, where remnants of pristine grasslands meet modern recreational waters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites (#9, #12, #13, #32, #34, and #45) and restrooms are available. The campground also connects via a 5-mile accessible walking trail along the O'Neill Forebay shoreline.
Sites SizeCampsite pads are level, with dimensions for RV sites often being approximately 30 feet in length. Tent pads measure 10 feet by 10 feet.
Sites PrivacySites are located in an open area with very little shade, providing limited privacy.
Total Campsites53 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shoreline sites for better views and proximity to the water. Sites with partial shade include #6 and #7.
Best CampsitesAccessible campsites include #9, 12, 13, 32, 34, and 45. Other recommended sites are #3, 4, 12, 16, 18, 19, 25, 28.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Stay limit is 15 consecutive days at a campsite and 30 days overall in state parks within one year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard sites can accommodate up to 8 guests.
Groups
Two group camping sites are available. Group Camp A accommodates up to 60 people and 15 vehicles, while Group Camp B accommodates up to 30 people and 10 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSan Luis Creek Campground has 53 developed sites organized along the shoreline and open areas. It includes accessible trails linking to the North Beach day-use area.
Open and Closed SeasonSan Luis Creek Campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are recommended for San Luis Creek Campground as it is unclear how many sites are reserved for walk-up visitors.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are managed via ReserveCalifornia.com. Details are not specified in the authoritative content.
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
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
San Luis Creek Campground offers various recreational activities, primarily centered around water sports and hiking. Wildlife viewing and fishing are popular activities. The area is open year-round, but strong winds can come up suddenly, impacting certain activities.
Hiking
A 5-mile accessible walking trail follows the O'Neill Forebay shoreline and provides easy linkage to multiple destination points, including the day-use area and fishing spots. The trail surface is asphalt and mostly flat.Fishing
Fishing is permitted with proper licenses. Species commonly caught include largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, shad, perch, and occasionally salmon and sturgeon.Swimming
Swimming is allowed at North Beach, the designated swim area within the San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area. Lifeguards are not present, and caution is advised.Boating
Boating on O'Neill Forebay and San Luis Reservoir is a popular activity. A boat ramp is available at the San Luis Creek area, and boaters must follow counterclockwise patterns as indicated by buoys.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for observing migratory birds like ducks and geese, along with hawks, bald eagles, and other wildlife species, are available.Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around North Beach, which includes shaded picnic sites, BBQ grills, and a designated swim area.Cultural and Educational Programs
Programs like campfire evening events and Junior Ranger programs are available during summer weekends. Guided walks are occasionally offered.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, though camping is available year-round.Water Sports
Water sports such as windsurfing are popular on O'Neill Forebay, which is noted for its strong winds.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in established fire rings. Open ground fires are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsStrong winds can occur suddenly, posing risks to campers and boats. Rattlesnakes and other wildlife may be present in the area.
Active alertsHarmful algae blooms have been detected at Dinosaur Point Boat Launch, not specific to San Luis Creek Campground. Visitors are advised to stay informed.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 19 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
Emergency services are available in Gustine, 7 miles away, including local police and medical facilities. The park office can be reached at (209) 826-1197.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not specified, but Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends typically see higher visitor numbers.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are present, but recycling details are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on O'Neill Forebay and has sites bordering the shoreline.
Common complaintsUser reviews often mention the lack of shade and exposure to wind. Some campers also note the absence of flush toilets and showers.
HostInformation about campground hosts is not provided.
Campground Map
31426 Gonzaga Road, Gustine, CA 95322
Driving directionsThe San Luis Creek Campground is located on Highway 152, 7 miles west of I-5, or 33 miles east of Highway 101 from Gilroy. Visitors can use Google Maps for precise navigation.
The campground is accessible from Highway 152, a major paved roadway. The route is straightforward with no mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Gustine (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Gilroy (33 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Los Banos (20 miles, approximately 25 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies can be accessed in Gustine, 7 miles away. Additional resources are available in Gilroy and Los Banos, which are larger population centers.
Camper Reviews
4.2
197 reviews
San Luis Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for San Luis Creek Campground highlight its accessibility and amenities, though many users note the limited shade and windiness. Accessibility features like the 5-mile trail are appreciated.
Review Summaries
Based on 197 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the accessible campsites and restrooms, as well as the proximity to recreational activities like hiking and fishing. "The trail was excellent for taking my wheelchair out for a...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of shade at campsites and the windiness of the area. "The wind was relentless during our stay, making it difficult to enjoy the open spaces," stated one user.
Based on 197 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra shade and windbreaks due to the open layout of the campground. Also, early reservations are advised for popular sites.
Based on 197 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring reviews are particularly favorable due to the blooming wildflowers and cool weather. Summer reviews often highlight the difficulty of managing extreme heat and wind in the open campground.
Based on 197 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The accessible trail was a highlight of our stay. We loved fishing along the shoreline and taking in the views." "Camping here was a bit challenging due to the wind, but we appreciated the clean...
Based on 197 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Accessible sites like #9, #12, and #13 receive positive feedback for easy access. Sites bordering the shoreline are favored for their views but criticized for wind exposure.
Based on 197 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are praised, particularly the designated sites and the accessible walking trail. "As someone with mobility challenges, the trail was perfect," noted one reviewer.
Based on 197 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet owners value the pet-friendly policy but advise keeping dogs leashed due to wind conditions and open spaces.
Based on 197 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025