Los Banos Creek Campground
4.3334 reviewsLos Banos Creek Campground, Los Banos Creek Reservoir, CA
Los Banos Creek Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Each primitive campsite costs $20 per night. There is an $8.25 reservation fee charged when booking in advance.
About this campground
Escape to Los Banos Creek Campground, where 20 secluded primitive sites await beneath starlit skies near the shimmering waters of Los Banos Creek Reservoir. Each thoughtfully spaced site comes equipped with its own fire ring and picnic table, perfect for evening gatherings and morning coffee rituals. While the camping experience embraces simplicity with portable restroom facilities, the natural beauty and tranquility more than compensate for the back-to-basics approach.
Los Banos Creek Campground offers primitive camping in a mostly natural setting with basic amenities suitable for tents and small RVs.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history along the legendary 'Path of the Padres,' where your campsite rests on ground that has witnessed centuries of California's evolution. Since the early 1800s, Spanish missionaries in rough-hewn robes and weathered ranchers driving cattle have traversed these very hills, leaving invisible footprints that still echo through the landscape. This historic corridor served as a vital lifeline connecting missions and settlements, making every camping trip a journey through time.
Weather and SeasonsExperience California's dramatic seasonal tapestry at Los Banos Creek, where blazing summer days soar into the mid-90s and occasionally dance past 100°F, creating perfect conditions for early morning hikes and refreshing reservoir dips. Winter brings a gentler touch, with temperatures rarely kissing the freezing mark, though mystical tule fogs often blanket the landscape in ethereal morning veils. Spring transforms the campground into nature's amphitheater, painting the surrounding hills in emerald green and splashing vibrant wildflower displays across the meadows.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 328 feet above sea level, Los Banos Creek Campground offers the perfect sweet spot in the foothills—high enough to catch cooling breezes and expansive views, yet accessible enough for easy exploration. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate that balances comfort with adventure throughout the seasons.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where golden grassy hills roll like frozen waves toward the sparkling reservoir, creating a stunning backdrop for your outdoor adventures. The campground's location at the intersection of prairie and riparian habitats creates a wildlife viewing paradise—watch for coyotes trotting along ridgelines at dusk, raccoons investigating the shoreline, graceful deer browsing in meadows, and the magnificent sight of bald eagles soaring overhead. Lucky visitors might even spot native turtles sunbathing on logs near the water's edge.
Geological RegionNestled in the western reaches of the San Joaquin Valley near the historic Pacheco Pass, Los Banos Creek Campground showcases California's diverse geological story. This unique location blends the valley's characteristic grasslands with water-carved canyons and reservoir basins, creating a fascinating mosaic where prairie ecosystems meet riparian corridors. The surrounding hills, shaped by millions of years of geological forces, provide both shelter and spectacular vantage points for sunset viewing.
Campsite details
AccessibilityPorta-potties and picnic areas with shade ramadas are accessible, but no specific details about ADA compliance are provided.
Sites SizeIndividual campsites vary with tent pads generally around 10x10 feet. Site #5 is noted to be the largest.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are close to each other, offering minimal privacy. Site #5 is next to the bathrooms but avoids odor issues according to reviewers.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites with uneven terrain like #2 and #11. Bring warm clothes and avoid open sites prone to wind if using tents with mesh netting.
Best CampsitesSite #5 is the largest and most convenient with access to the only water spigot but can be busy. Sites #12, #1, and #3 are highly recommended for privacy and proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 15 consecutive days per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per site is 8 guests.
Groups
Group camping is not available at Los Banos Creek Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged along the shoreline of the reservoir. Sites #5–9 are directly across from the water.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; subject to winter closures due to water release.
Reservation PlatformsReservations made through ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling their hotline.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered; however, the campground often closes once sites are occupied.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy mentioned. Reservations are subject to standard ReserveCalifornia policies.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Los Banos Creek Campground offers a tranquil spot for water-based activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing, alongside hiking opportunities in nearby areas. User reviews emphasize its peaceful environment and suitability for family outings.
Hiking
While the campground itself doesn’t feature major trails, nearby paths like the Path of the Padres hike offer exploration opportunities. Adjacent areas have trails with varying difficulty levels.Fishing
Fishing at Los Banos Creek Reservoir includes opportunities to catch trout, bluegill, catfish, and largemouth bass. User reviews highlight morning hours (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM) as optimal for fish activity.Swimming
Swimming is possible directly from the campground waterline. The shallow waters are suitable for children, as noted by reviewers.Boating
Boaters can beach their boats overnight but are restricted to a speed limit of 5 mph. Boating is prohibited after sunset.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include coyotes, raccoons, bald eagles, and deer. User reviews mention the peace and quiet interrupted only by the sounds of nature.Cultural and Educational Programs
Seasonal programs such as the Path of the Padres hike provide educational insights into the history and natural features of the area.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited, but fishing and camping are still available during colder months.Water Sports
Kayaking and fishing are commonly enjoyed by visitors.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in provided fire rings; no ground fires permitted.
- Quiet hours are officially set from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include sudden high winds, shallow water areas, and wildlife such as rattlesnakes and coyotes.
Active alertsNo active alerts specific to Los Banos Creek Campground at the time of review.
Weather forecast
98
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.6 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 emergency services are available in Los Banos, approximately 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day weekends are considered peak season.
Trash and recyclingThere are large trash cans provided at every site, but no recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAll sites are steps away from the waterline of Los Banos Creek Reservoir.
Common complaintsLack of showers and flush toilets, occasional noisy campers using generators, and locked gates at sunset causing inconvenience for late arrivals.
HostRangers and staff are generally friendly and helpful, with one specific ranger named Jorge noted for his kindness.
Campground Map
Los Banos Creek Campground, Los Banos Creek Reservoir, CA
Driving directionsOn Highway 152, 7 miles West of I-5, or 33 miles East of Highway 101 from Gilroy, turn onto Canyon Road. Follow Canyon Road until reaching Los Banos Creek Reservoir.
The campground is accessible via paved roads; however, the area is prone to winter and road closures due to water releases from the reservoir.Nearby places
Los Banos (15 miles, ~20 minutes), Gustine (20 miles, ~25 minutes), Gilroy (33 miles, ~40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Los Banos, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.3
34 reviews
Los Banos Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Los Banos Creek Campground receives mixed reviews, with positive remarks about its peaceful environment, proximity to water, and family-friendly atmosphere. Complaints focus on the lack of modern amenities, occasional noise from inconsiderate campers, and limited shade.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground’s cleanliness, proximity to the water, and tranquil environment. Families find it particularly suitable for children due to shallow swimming areas. Staff and rangers are...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common critiques include the absence of proper toilets and showers (porta-potties only), limited shade, and occasional disturbances from noisy campers. Some users also report issues with locked gates...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive before sunset to avoid locked gates. Bring warm clothing for cold nights and provisions for shade. Users recommend Site #5 for its size and convenient access to the water spigot.
Based on 34 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular but can be crowded, with occasional noise from other groups. Winter offers quieter experiences, making it ideal for fishing. Spring is noted for pleasant weather and fewer...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'No matter what site you’re at, you’re steps away from the waterline.'
2. 'Site #5 is by far the largest site. You are right next to the bathrooms but we didn’t get any smell.'
3. 'We noticed how...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #5 is identified as the largest and most convenient due to its proximity to amenities. Site #2 is marked as small and uneven, while Sites #6 and #7 offer good tent pads and shade structures.
Based on 34 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited, with chemical toilets and primitive paths. Reviews do not provide specific accounts from disabled users.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on a leash, but users emphasize keeping them controlled, especially at night. Dogs are appreciated for their company during camping trips.
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025