How much does camping cost at Basalt Campground?

Camping fees at Basalt Campground are $28/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Basalt Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Basalt Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Basalt Campground before I book?

Yes! Basalt Campground has 21 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Basalt Campground?

Basalt Campground is open Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends are peak season for camping.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Basalt Campground?

Yes, Basalt Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Basalt Campground?

Fire policies at Basalt Campground: Fires allowed only in grills and fire rings. Firewood is sold by the camp host for $10 per bundle.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Basalt Campground have?

Basalt Campground has 79 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Basalt Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Basalt Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Basalt Campground?

Basalt Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Basalt Campground?

Popular activities at Basalt Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Basalt Campground

4.32

126 reviews

31426 Gonzaga Road, Gustine, CA 95322

Top 10% in CASpring

C+Report Card

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds California

Quick Facts

544 ft

Price

$28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

79 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

544 ft

Price

$28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

79 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Basalt Campground

$28.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees are $28 per night for camping and an additional $8 reservation fee. Coin-operated showers cost $0.50 for two minutes.

Standard Site Fee$28.00

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Provider

209-826-1197null

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

31426 Gonzaga Road, Gustine, CA 95322

Basalt Campground

31426 Gonzaga Road, Gustine, CA 95322

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.

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.

Weather at Basalt Campground

Current alert: Temporary closure as of May 31, 2022, due to Safety of Dams Project.

Best Time to Camp at Basalt Campground

Spring brings the best conditions. Winter rains wake up the vernal pools and grasslands, producing wildflowers and drawing large numbers of birds. Daytime temperatures run 55–75°F with nights in the 40s–50s. Summer days regularly exceed 100°F, though evenings cool down for comfortable sleeping. Winter stays mild with occasional tule fog. Winds can pick up across the open terrain year-round. Campers report heavy fly activity during warmer months, and algal blooms sometimes affect fishing quality.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in CA

Described as 'best conditions'; vernal pools, wildflowers and strong bird activity in spring.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends are peak season for camping.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round; temporarily closed as of May 31, 2022, for Dam Safety Project.

About Basalt Campground

Basalt Campground sits on the western shore of San Luis Reservoir, where 79 campsites spread across loops shaded by mature trees. Sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers. Campers note clean facilities and peaceful conditions outside peak season, though summer weekends can bring noise and fly problems. Nightly fees are $28, and sites accommodate RVs up to 30 feet.

Basalt Campground accommodates tent camping, RVs, and trailers. There are no group, cabin, or glamping sites.

Historical Significance

Northern Valley Yokuts inhabited this region before Spanish explorers and Mexican rancheros used trails through nearby Pacheco Pass. The reservoir itself represents California's water infrastructure history, where the Central Valley Project meets the State Water Project.

Weather and SeasonsSpring brings the best conditions. Winter rains wake up the vernal pools and grasslands, producing wildflowers and drawing large numbers of birds. Daytime temperatures run 55–75°F with nights in the 40s–50s. Summer days regularly exceed 100°F, though evenings cool down for comfortable sleeping. Winter stays mild with occasional tule fog. Winds can pick up across the open terrain year-round. Campers report heavy fly activity during warmer months, and algal blooms sometimes affect fishing quality.

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 SceneryThe campground overlooks grass-covered hills dotted with oak trees at 544 feet elevation. Vernal pools form after winter rains, attracting waterfowl and shorebirds. Wildlife sightings are common: tule elk, deer, bobcats, bald eagles, and golden eagles all appear in the area. The reservoir fills the foreground while rolling hills fade into the distance. Seasonal wetlands create habitat diversity that changes dramatically between wet and dry months.

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.

Scenic ViewsBeautiful vistas of rolling grassy hills, fragrant trees, and occasional tule fog creating a mysterious atmosphere. Clear days reveal expansive landscapes.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no hotel-style lodge within the Basalt Campground. Campers primarily use tents, RVs, or trailers.

Programs & ActivitiesSpring programs include 'Path of the Padres' guided hikes that explore the area's cultural history, wildlife, and natural features.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are arranged in loops with accessible spots distributed throughout. Water faucets are placed between sites. Some areas offer more tree cover and spacing than others. The layout accommodates trailers and motorhomes up to 30 feet.

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.

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.

Site SizeSites can accommodate trailers and motor homes up to 30 feet in length.

PrivacySites offer a mix of privacy levels. Some campers mentioned shaded and secluded sites while others noted open layouts.

Total Campsites79 campsites

Recommended SitesSites offering the most shade and privacy include 8, 20, and 24. Sites such as 19 face beautiful hills, providing excellent views.

Best CampsitesSites 8, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 26, 28, 29, 45, 50, 51, 55, 56, 58, 60, 61, 62, and 71 receive the most mentions. Some offer shade and seclusion, while others sit more exposed. Privacy varies across the loops.

Need help booking Basalt Campground?

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Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Basalt Campground is situated in a shaded, wind-protected valley near San Luis Reservoir. It offers 79 developed family campsites, each equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. The campground features hot pay showers and flushable toilets, potable water faucets near campsites, and a dump station for registered campers. Accessibility improvements include designated accessible campsites (#20, 35, 36, 40, 51, 56, and 73) and accessible combination restrooms with showers.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Basalt Campground

Basalt Campground is near various recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Wildlife viewing4.5/5Top 1% in California

Frequent sightings: tule elk, deer, bobcats, bald & golden eagles, waterfowl at vernal pools.

Fishing4.0/5

Fishing on San Luis Reservoir with bass, crappie, shad noted; access and levels fluctuate.

Hiking3.5/5

On-site Basalt Trail (0.5 mi) and nearby Lone Oak Trail (6 mi); casual hiking and birding.

Biking3.0/5

Biking opportunities in surrounding area; trails suitable for casual rides reported.

Boating3.0/5

Boating on San Luis Reservoir is available, though Basalt boat ramp is temporarily affected.

Water Sports3.0/5

Reservoir allows paddling/kayaking, but access and ramps can be limited by fluctuating levels.

Signature experiences

Photography4.5/5Vistas, tule fog, sunrises/sunsets and abundant wildlife make strong photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential 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.

Food Storage RequiredBear lockers are provided at each campsite for food storage. Users should ensure lockers are properly closed to avoid attracting wildlife.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFires allowed only in grills and fire rings. Firewood is sold by the camp host for $10 per bundle.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency service is CAL-FIRE located at Gonzaga Road, and the closest hospital is in Los Banos, approximately 20 miles away.

Water FeaturesThe campground is near San Luis Reservoir. Water levels fluctuate, affecting access and fishing conditions.

Camp HostCamp host available on-site, providing firewood and ensuring campsite regulations are followed.

Cell CoverageSeveral user reviews mention good cell phone reception within the campground. One camper specifically noted using Google Fi with satisfactory service.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

126 reviews

Recommended

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 126 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 126 reviews

Common 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 126 reviews

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 126 reviews

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 126 reviews

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 126 reviews

Camper 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 126 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites (#20, 35, 36, 40, 51, 56, and 73) are noted for their proximity to restrooms and level ground.

Based on 126 reviews

Pet-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 126 reviews

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Basalt Campground

$28.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees are $28 per night for camping and an additional $8 reservation fee. Coin-operated showers cost $0.50 for two minutes.

Standard Site Fee$28.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve California

Provider

209-826-1197null

Go if

Birders, wildlife watchers, and anglers targeting bass or striped bass will find plenty to do. Spring weekdays are the sweet spot: sites 19 and 24 offer privacy and views, facilities are clean, and tule elk sightings are genuinely common.

Skip if

Summer weekends bring triple-digit heat, heavy flies, and loud groups. The boat ramp is closed due to an ongoing dam safety project, and there's no swimming at camp itself, so water-sport-focused trips will disappoint.

Nearby Campgrounds

31426 Gonzaga Road, Gustine, CA 95322

Medeiros Campground sits on the southern shore of O'Neill Forebay in San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area, about 15 miles west of Gustine. The 46 primitive sites (tent and RV) run $20/night and offer direct lake access for fishing, boating, and swimming. The location is convenient to I-5 but comes with tradeoffs: restrooms need better maintenance, mosquitoes and ants are common, and previous campers often leave trash behind.

Basalt Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Basalt Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Basalt Campground

Best Time to Camp at Basalt Campground

Planning Tips

About Basalt Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Basalt Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Basalt Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

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Best Time to Camp at Basalt Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

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Need help booking Basalt Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Basalt Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

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