Bates Canyon Campground

3.00

12 reviews

Quick Facts

2,927 ft

Price

$5 - $30/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

6 campsites

Season

January - December

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Los Padres National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,927 ft

Price

$5 - $30/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

6 campsites

Season

January - December

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Los Padres National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Bates Canyon Campground

$5.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Requires Adventure Pass ($5/day) or Annual Interagency Pass ($30/year)

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

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What Campers Say

3.00

Mixed Reviews

Based on 12 reviews

10 Google reviews

Most mentioned

sites

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Bates Canyon Campground

34.9532, -119.9079

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)

Best Time to Camp at Bates Canyon Campground

Experience 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; summer affected by drought/maintenance issues per reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall likely pleasant among oaks and sycamores; reviews note serene seasonal conditions.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring rain yields animal tracks and green growth; positive seasonal mentions in reviews.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Described as a 'crisp wonderland' with mild winter daytime temps, but no winter amenities.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: January - December

About Bates Canyon 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.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is 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.

AccessibilityNo explicit information about accessibility features found.

Site SizeUser reviews suggest the sites are close together, impacting privacy.

PrivacyReviews note a lack of privacy due to closely spaced campsites.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #2 recommended for families with children who enjoy climbing trees.

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 viewingUser review encourages checking out animal tracks after rain and identifying them for fun.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo potable water is provided. User reviews mention the challenge of access roads and potential for flooding during rain.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Bates Canyon Campground

Reviews

3.0

12 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Bates Canyon Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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 12 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 12 reviews

Common 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 12 reviews

Pro 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 12 reviews

Seasonal 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 12 reviews

Camper 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 12 reviews