The best dog-friendly glamping near Los Banos, California

Situated within the San Joaquin Valley southwest of Merced, Los Banos has quickly grown to become a central hub for many natural attractions in northern California. Along with its own historic downtown and a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home, Los Banos also offers easy access to nearby camping opportunities. Henry W. Coe State Park (the largest state park in the region) presents a bounty of wildflowers, mountain views, and hiking as well as backcountry camping or drive-in campsites. Sierra National Forest is the gateway to the Sierra Nevadas, a mountain range full of fishing, hiking, and snow activities. Or set up camp in Pinnacles National Park to experience geologic wonders, awe-inspiring terrain, and birding opportunities.

86% (404)

Top-rated campgrounds

Situated within the San Joaquin Valley southwest of Merced, Los Banos has quickly grown to become a central hub for many natural attractions in northern California. Along with its own historic downtown and a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home, Los Banos also offers easy access to nearby camping opportunities. Henry W. Coe State Park (the largest state park in the region) presents a bounty of wildflowers, mountain views, and hiking as well as backcountry camping or drive-in campsites. Sierra National Forest is the gateway to the Sierra Nevadas, a mountain range full of fishing, hiking, and snow activities. Or set up camp in Pinnacles National Park to experience geologic wonders, awe-inspiring terrain, and birding opportunities.

86% (404)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. 10000 Ranch

93%

(52)

43mi from Los Banos · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gilroy, CA

Quiet 5-acre grassland awaits you, complete with a pond, a garden, a paved platform with chairs and a table, and a fire pit. The property is secure with a gated lock. The pond attracts frequent visits from wild geese, ducks, and cranes, while a flock of peacocks and turkeys are also regular visitors. Keep an eye out for eagles and turkey vultures soaring overhead, and marvel at the graceful deer effortlessly leaping over the property fence. Local attractions abound, including wineries, Gilroy Gardens, the Gilroy Premium Outlet and Pinnacles National Park. Located on the famous Gilroy Wine Trail boasting over 30 family-owned wineries, 10000 Ranch offers easy access to Stefania Wine (stefaniawine.com), just a short walk away, and Kirigin Cellars (kirigincellars.com) a short distance away. Enjoy live outdoor music and a friendly atmosphere at Cottage Creek Vineyards (cottagecreekvineyard.com). Gilroy Gardens (gilroygardens.org) is less than 7 miles away, promising an unforgettable day for the whole family followed by a relaxing camping night—a memory to cherish. Only 5 miles away, Gilroy Premium Outlet beckons with its vast selection of famous goods at deeply discounted prices. With so much to explore, why not extend your shopping spree into the next morning? Pinnacles National Park is a short car ride away. Hike the many hiking trails with gorgeous views, explore Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave with waterfalls in them, and watch California Condors soaring over the High Peaks, Remember to bring your headlamp for the caves and binoculars for the wildlife. And, note that no road connects the West and the East entrances.

2. The Rainbow Junction

89%

(9)

42mi from Los Banos · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Livermore, CA

The Rainbow Junction offers a unique camping experience at the intersection of Mines Road and HWY 130 in the San Antonio Valley. We operate a restaurant and we offer camping friendly meals for guests. We love the wildness of this property and do not allow cars or vehicles beyond the parking lot. All of our sites are hike in sites. It's about a 1/4 mile hike on a small foot path. We have a wagon available for guests to use and we are happy to help you carry your things. We host a communal fire pit in the evenings, weather permitting, for all guests to enjoy, we do not allow open fires on the property. Cal Fire has requested that all campers get a permit, even to operate a gas stove. The permit is free and takes just a few minutes. https://permit.preventwildfiresca.org/ Please pack your trash, food scraps can be place in our compost but please be prepared to take all other items with you when you leave. Our swimming pond is about a 3/4 mile hike through brush from the restaurant but is a great way to beat the heat during the day! Campsites have a picnic table. A dry toilet is a short walk from campsites and we equip sites with a water dispenser and a sealed container for trash. Water from our well is always available outside of the restaurant and bathrooms with running water are available during business hours. There is a fire trail along one of our ridge lines that offers stunning views of the San Antonio Valley as well as our abundant wildlife. We sometimes host speakers and educational workshops and guests are always welcome to participate in events. Campers, trailers, RVs and Vans are welcome to stay in our lot but we currently do not have hookups available. Have a large group? We are happy to reserve group sites.

3. Terra Cultura

95%

(225)

45mi from Los Banos · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Aromas, CA

Our farm is nestled in the scenic hills of Aromas, CA, just 15 minutes away from the ocean. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip along California’s majestic coast, or looking to spend some time getting to know the lush landscape of the Central Coast, we welcome you with open arms! We are a nonprofit educational eco-arts farm and your booking supports environmental stewardship and arts education for underserved communities. Thank you for your support! We place the highest value on respect--for the land, and for the people, plants, and animals that call this area home. While you are here, please consider yourself a partner in stewarding this place.

4. Cabin Chic A&B C-sites

37mi from Los Banos · 3 sites · Lodging · Hollister, CA

Cabin Chic A, B & C Sites — Hollister, California Hosted by Alesia · 3 private sites · 40 acres Nestled on a peaceful 40-acre ranch near Hollister, Cabin Chic A, B & C Sites offer a blend of comfort and countryside charm just under an hour from Pinnacles National Park. Guests can choose from two stylish 400 sq ft cabins or a dry camping site, each offering space, privacy, and beautiful views. Each cabin features a queen bedroom, a bunk room, and an open living area that extends onto a spacious deck. Modern comforts include flush toilets, hot showers, a full kitchen, and Starlink internet. The property is pet-friendly and fully fenced for safety and peace of mind. Enjoy scenic views of olive groves, vineyards, and a pond while spotting longhorns, horses, ducks, and local wildlife. The open night skies make for incredible stargazing. Located just 25 minutes from Pinnacles National Park, the property is also close to Hollister Hills for off-roading, local vineyards, and charming small-town dining. Perfect for families or small groups, this serene getaway combines rustic tranquility with cabin comfort — an ideal retreat for nature lovers and weekend adventurers.

5. Nearby Getaway - Dogs Welcome!

96%

(189)

43mi from Los Banos · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · San Juan Bautista, CA

Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Come to relax in peace and quiet, pleasant outdoor. A short drive away but far from troubles you've left behind! Relax and rejuvenate. The weather is always temperate, sometimes the evening marine layer lavishly blankets the rolling hills like cotton. Evening campfires are cozy and relaxing. Easy access to Highway 101 for "Nearby Getaways" or convenient stops along your travels. Nearby attractions include whale watching, Elkhorn Slough Safaris, fishing, Monterey Zoo, world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pebble Beach, Carmel, Big Sur, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and miles of beaches, redwoods, miles of bike trails from the new Coastline Trail to Fort Ord and Niscene Marks Redwoods, wine tasting and more. Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner. Simply ask for recommendations. Come to your "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great sky views, and pleasant country walks, or step back in time to the Mission-era town of San Juan Bautista without commercialism! Well, we do have a gas station, a market, the active mission, of course, a step back in history, a few quaint restaurants, craft beer and local wines in our "one-horse" historical town. For the ultimate Nearby Getaway book the entire property and bring along your own selected guest list of friends or family. We invite private groups to exclusive use of the property for Getaways, family & friends picnics, celebrations, reunions, even weddings. Day use or overnite facilities. Groups of 1-100. NEWS FLASH: Skip the long stopover at urban EV charging stations. Charge your EV overnite! Special rates for stopover charging! Easy off and on to Highway 101, 129. 156 and on your way! Learn more about this land: This is a large flat site with rolling hills, lovely rural views, rolling oak studded pastureland, open views, lovely sunsets and beautiful mornings. Very quiet, private, peaceful and serene. Afternoon breezes while red tailed hawks ride the thermals, and woodpeckers work on their treasure hoarde. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! Wildlife abounds. Easy access from Highway 101, yet private and secluded. Historic San Juan Bautista Mission and town nearby. Monterey/Carmel 30 minutes. Santa Cruz/Beaches 20 minutes. Hollister, Salinas, or Gilroy 20 minutes. Site will accommodate RV, Sprintervan, or trailer 50/30/20 amp service. Tents welcome too! Water. Ranch "outhouse" with flushable composting style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity. Bunkhouse rustic accommodations available. Contact Host for details. Tent and Car Top Tent sites also available. Contact Host for details. Beautiful peaceful historic San Juan Bautista. Quaint historic mission town nearby with restaurants. Hiking trails nearby Horseback riding woods & beach. Equine Facilities available. 20 min to beach or redwoods. Beautiful rural area. Weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life; event camp; event site. Family groups and events always welcome! Call for more information. NOTE: This property is located in a very private country area. It is approximately 8 minutes from the small historic town of San Juan Bautista. We meet our first time guests at the Park & Ride as a welcome courtesy so you can easily follow us in and around the potholes on our rural roads! Let us know if we can assist you with any special interests or attractions in the Monterey Bay and Central Coast Area. As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."

6. Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

79%

(14)

49mi from Los Banos · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Gilroy, CA

Nestled in the serene redwood forests of Gilroy, our 6-acre ranch offers an unforgettable escape into nature. Wake up to the soothing sounds of our rooster’s call and start your day with a sense of peace and excitement. Our ranch is packed with fun-filled activities for all ages. Fly through the trees on our zipline, bounce away your stress on the trampoline, or challenge yourself with archery and axe throwing. Wander along our scenic hiking trails, follow the bubbling creek, and soak in breathtaking views from the mountaintop. Animal lovers will be in heaven at our charming petting zoo, home to our friendly goat, sheep, kunekune pigs, chickens, ducks, and bunnies. Get up close and enjoy interacting with these adorable creatures. As the day winds down, fire up the BBQ grill for a delicious outdoor meal, then gather around the campfire for a night of s’mores and stories under the stars. Our ranch offers incredible stargazing opportunities, with clear skies that often reveal the awe-inspiring Milky Way. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this unique experience will help you reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh forest air, and leave with unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and unlock your wild side on our one-of-a-kind ranch! *All activities are free except zipline.

Stories from the community

C

Cladellain

October 2025

Weekend Trip to 10000 Ranch

Great place to get away from the city! The RV was clean and stocked with essentials for cooking and the shower and toilet was close by. We brought our own sleeping bags and pillows, which worked out perfectly. We booked this stay to be closer to the wineries, pumpkin patches, and u-pick farms nearby, it was such a convenient location for exploring the area. Would definitely come back again!

M

Melissa

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

Peaceful stay surrounded by redwood trees. The boys (7 year olds) had a lovely time! Thanks

s

stephanie

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

We had so much fun. It was nice to see all the animals and many fun things to do.

Nick

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

Yurt was great! The overall area could use some love but we really enjoyed our time there. Great for anyone who can go with the flow

E

Eva

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

The yurt was clean and cozy. The heater worked so well and I loved having a kitchenette. The bed was very comfortable! We love the yurt. It is obvious how much love and effort is poured into it. Thank you! We loved the alpacas, the evening fog in the Eucalyptus trees and the cat. We found the compost toilet to be more comfortable than we thought as well.

l

li

July 2025

With kids

1 night at Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

We had a wonderful time glamping here! Big thanks to Joe, the ranch owner, for his warm hospitality. Both the adults and our 4 yr old kid loved this place! For a family like ours who’s a bit too lazy to pitch our own tent but still wants to experience camping, this was the perfect outdoor getaway. The tent was incredibly clean and spacious. Joe also has so many exciting plans and ideas for this site — we can’t wait to see how it evolves. We’ll definitely be back!

D

Dana

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Nearby Getaway - Dogs Welcome!

Nancy was so welcoming and the place is very beautiful. The barn was full and she introduced us to theb other guests which helped facilitate conversations. The common areas are ripe for shared pleasant evenings and good conversations. The Grooms room is partitioned off from the Bridal roim. This means sound and light comes into the Grooms room from the Bridal room. I really enjoyed the couple and their dog, but one of them snored loudly and I could not sleep. The space felt private, but If the other room is booked you might get some unpleasant noise that just cant be helped even by the most polite of company. I would stay again, but maybe not when both rooms are occupied.

eevee

May 2025

2 nights at Terra Cultura

our anniversary! a sweet kitty cat welcomed us. we crunched through eucalyptus leaves and we're greeted by turkeys and jays and lizards. the yurt was so cozy and had all the comforts of home, but we could still hear the leaves rustling in the wind at night and needles pattering gently on the canvas roof. not a far drive from watsonville, good food there and great thrifting! a little further and you're at the beach! great location, magical sleeping arrangements! thanks Travis and Emory and the rest of the residents and staff 💜

L

Locksley

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

The yurt was well equipped and it was lovely hearing the sounds of the forest throughout the day/night. The shower gets nice and hot, and the view is amazing. We really appreciate the yurt upgrade we were given! It made the birthday weekend with my partner even more special. I highly recommend staying here.

Christi

May 2025

With pets

2 nights at Terra Cultura

Terra Cultura is a hidden gem. Copper (my dog) and I enjoyed our little adventure immensely. I loved hearing the wind move through the eucalyptus tress while in the yurt an identifying the various bird calls. I saw a great horned owl soaring through the trees and heard its song each night. Copper met his first alpaca! Emory and the other resident were lovely people and easy to chat with. I highly recommend a visit to Terra Cultura!

Amber

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

Chose this location as a midway point between Santa Cruz and Monterey. The Yurt was cozy and had everything we needed. Emory was very helpful and quick to respond to any of our needs. We enjoyed our stay!

E

Emily

May 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

What a beautiful property! Misthaven was a great choice for our 3 year old, he loved watching the animals and exploring the surroundings. The glamping tent was roomy and comfortable, and while we agreed it could use extra blankets on a cold night, was a big step up from tent camping. Communication was good and our host was super friendly and helpful. We'd love to return!

Collin

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

Wide open space nestled in the redwoods. The property is clean and organized which is a big plus. Highly recommend.

R

Ryan

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

Incredible spot with very nice hosts! The Yurts were STOCKED with games, cookware, and additional blankets and everything else one might need and not realize. We had the best time and will definitely be coming back!!

Dre

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

Terra Cultura was a lush and serene place to spend the weekend. Emory and Travis were warm, helpful, and responsive to our inquiries and needs. I highly recommend staying in the Skyline Yurt. It's simple and spacious with more amenities (running water, heat, good light) than I thought possible in a yurt.

K

Kasey

March 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

The yurt had many more features than expected! The fridge, hot plate, and sink were a nice surprise and really added to the comfort of our stay. The property was beautiful and offered the perfect serene farm getaway.

P

PRATEEK

February 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

We loved the Yurt and the overall experience! Will definitely do this again.

Adrienne

December 2024

Weekend Trip to Terra Cultura

We had a very relaxing stay. The property is well maintained and the yurt was very cozy and comfortable. The property is not really a hiking or camping vibe, but it has a beautiful view of the surrounding hills and trees. The compost toilet was not my favorite experience but it was clean. The yurt had everything we needed to cook and enjoy the space.

Dog-friendly getaways

Terra Cultura

95%

(225)

45mi from Los Banos · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Aromas, CA

Our farm is nestled in the scenic hills of Aromas, CA, just 15 minutes away from the ocean. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip along California’s majestic coast, or looking to spend some time getting to know the lush landscape of the Central Coast, we welcome you with open arms! We are a nonprofit educational eco-arts farm and your booking supports environmental stewardship and arts education for underserved communities. Thank you for your support! We place the highest value on respect--for the land, and for the people, plants, and animals that call this area home. While you are here, please consider yourself a partner in stewarding this place.

Cabin Chic A&B C-sites

37mi from Los Banos · 3 sites · Lodging · Hollister, CA

Cabin Chic A, B & C Sites — Hollister, California Hosted by Alesia · 3 private sites · 40 acres Nestled on a peaceful 40-acre ranch near Hollister, Cabin Chic A, B & C Sites offer a blend of comfort and countryside charm just under an hour from Pinnacles National Park. Guests can choose from two stylish 400 sq ft cabins or a dry camping site, each offering space, privacy, and beautiful views. Each cabin features a queen bedroom, a bunk room, and an open living area that extends onto a spacious deck. Modern comforts include flush toilets, hot showers, a full kitchen, and Starlink internet. The property is pet-friendly and fully fenced for safety and peace of mind. Enjoy scenic views of olive groves, vineyards, and a pond while spotting longhorns, horses, ducks, and local wildlife. The open night skies make for incredible stargazing. Located just 25 minutes from Pinnacles National Park, the property is also close to Hollister Hills for off-roading, local vineyards, and charming small-town dining. Perfect for families or small groups, this serene getaway combines rustic tranquility with cabin comfort — an ideal retreat for nature lovers and weekend adventurers.

10000 Ranch

93%

(52)

43mi from Los Banos · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gilroy, CA

Quiet 5-acre grassland awaits you, complete with a pond, a garden, a paved platform with chairs and a table, and a fire pit. The property is secure with a gated lock. The pond attracts frequent visits from wild geese, ducks, and cranes, while a flock of peacocks and turkeys are also regular visitors. Keep an eye out for eagles and turkey vultures soaring overhead, and marvel at the graceful deer effortlessly leaping over the property fence. Local attractions abound, including wineries, Gilroy Gardens, the Gilroy Premium Outlet and Pinnacles National Park. Located on the famous Gilroy Wine Trail boasting over 30 family-owned wineries, 10000 Ranch offers easy access to Stefania Wine (stefaniawine.com), just a short walk away, and Kirigin Cellars (kirigincellars.com) a short distance away. Enjoy live outdoor music and a friendly atmosphere at Cottage Creek Vineyards (cottagecreekvineyard.com). Gilroy Gardens (gilroygardens.org) is less than 7 miles away, promising an unforgettable day for the whole family followed by a relaxing camping night—a memory to cherish. Only 5 miles away, Gilroy Premium Outlet beckons with its vast selection of famous goods at deeply discounted prices. With so much to explore, why not extend your shopping spree into the next morning? Pinnacles National Park is a short car ride away. Hike the many hiking trails with gorgeous views, explore Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave with waterfalls in them, and watch California Condors soaring over the High Peaks, Remember to bring your headlamp for the caves and binoculars for the wildlife. And, note that no road connects the West and the East entrances.

The Rainbow Junction

89%

(9)

42mi from Los Banos · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Livermore, CA

The Rainbow Junction offers a unique camping experience at the intersection of Mines Road and HWY 130 in the San Antonio Valley. We operate a restaurant and we offer camping friendly meals for guests. We love the wildness of this property and do not allow cars or vehicles beyond the parking lot. All of our sites are hike in sites. It's about a 1/4 mile hike on a small foot path. We have a wagon available for guests to use and we are happy to help you carry your things. We host a communal fire pit in the evenings, weather permitting, for all guests to enjoy, we do not allow open fires on the property. Cal Fire has requested that all campers get a permit, even to operate a gas stove. The permit is free and takes just a few minutes. https://permit.preventwildfiresca.org/ Please pack your trash, food scraps can be place in our compost but please be prepared to take all other items with you when you leave. Our swimming pond is about a 3/4 mile hike through brush from the restaurant but is a great way to beat the heat during the day! Campsites have a picnic table. A dry toilet is a short walk from campsites and we equip sites with a water dispenser and a sealed container for trash. Water from our well is always available outside of the restaurant and bathrooms with running water are available during business hours. There is a fire trail along one of our ridge lines that offers stunning views of the San Antonio Valley as well as our abundant wildlife. We sometimes host speakers and educational workshops and guests are always welcome to participate in events. Campers, trailers, RVs and Vans are welcome to stay in our lot but we currently do not have hookups available. Have a large group? We are happy to reserve group sites.

Nearby Getaway - Dogs Welcome!

96%

(189)

43mi from Los Banos · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · San Juan Bautista, CA

Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Come to relax in peace and quiet, pleasant outdoor. A short drive away but far from troubles you've left behind! Relax and rejuvenate. The weather is always temperate, sometimes the evening marine layer lavishly blankets the rolling hills like cotton. Evening campfires are cozy and relaxing. Easy access to Highway 101 for "Nearby Getaways" or convenient stops along your travels. Nearby attractions include whale watching, Elkhorn Slough Safaris, fishing, Monterey Zoo, world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pebble Beach, Carmel, Big Sur, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and miles of beaches, redwoods, miles of bike trails from the new Coastline Trail to Fort Ord and Niscene Marks Redwoods, wine tasting and more. Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner. Simply ask for recommendations. Come to your "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great sky views, and pleasant country walks, or step back in time to the Mission-era town of San Juan Bautista without commercialism! Well, we do have a gas station, a market, the active mission, of course, a step back in history, a few quaint restaurants, craft beer and local wines in our "one-horse" historical town. For the ultimate Nearby Getaway book the entire property and bring along your own selected guest list of friends or family. We invite private groups to exclusive use of the property for Getaways, family & friends picnics, celebrations, reunions, even weddings. Day use or overnite facilities. Groups of 1-100. NEWS FLASH: Skip the long stopover at urban EV charging stations. Charge your EV overnite! Special rates for stopover charging! Easy off and on to Highway 101, 129. 156 and on your way! Learn more about this land: This is a large flat site with rolling hills, lovely rural views, rolling oak studded pastureland, open views, lovely sunsets and beautiful mornings. Very quiet, private, peaceful and serene. Afternoon breezes while red tailed hawks ride the thermals, and woodpeckers work on their treasure hoarde. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! Wildlife abounds. Easy access from Highway 101, yet private and secluded. Historic San Juan Bautista Mission and town nearby. Monterey/Carmel 30 minutes. Santa Cruz/Beaches 20 minutes. Hollister, Salinas, or Gilroy 20 minutes. Site will accommodate RV, Sprintervan, or trailer 50/30/20 amp service. Tents welcome too! Water. Ranch "outhouse" with flushable composting style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity. Bunkhouse rustic accommodations available. Contact Host for details. Tent and Car Top Tent sites also available. Contact Host for details. Beautiful peaceful historic San Juan Bautista. Quaint historic mission town nearby with restaurants. Hiking trails nearby Horseback riding woods & beach. Equine Facilities available. 20 min to beach or redwoods. Beautiful rural area. Weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life; event camp; event site. Family groups and events always welcome! Call for more information. NOTE: This property is located in a very private country area. It is approximately 8 minutes from the small historic town of San Juan Bautista. We meet our first time guests at the Park & Ride as a welcome courtesy so you can easily follow us in and around the potholes on our rural roads! Let us know if we can assist you with any special interests or attractions in the Monterey Bay and Central Coast Area. As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best dog-friendly glamping near Los Banos guide

Where to go

Henry W. Coe State Park

Encompassing over 87,000 acres of hillsides and mountain ridges, Henry W. Coe State Park is the largest state park in northern California. It offers a rich natural display, particularly in spring when the wildflowers bloom and blanket the fields. Campers can trek through more than 250 miles of hiking trails and ranch roads to take in views of the area. The park also hosts fishing spots for anglers and horseback riding trails for equestrians. Along with rugged backcountry camping, there is one on-site developed campground outfitted with 20 drive-in campsites. Each site has a fire pit, picnic table, and access to vault toilets and potable water nearby.

Sierra National Forest

An hour and a half east from Los Banos is the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Sierra National Forest presents a diverse habitat comprising five wilderness areas, two nationally designated scenic rivers, and three nationally designated trails. The forest is also known for its incredible mountain vistas and pristine lakes that offer fishing opportunities. In winter, campers can snowmobile, cross-country ski, or downhill ski and snowboard on forest hills, as well. Then, spend the night at one of the campgrounds at Bass Lake, Merced River, Rock Creek, or High Sierra.

Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park is the result of massive volcanic and geologic activity millions of years ago. It now includes diverse biomes of chaparral, canyon bottoms, and oak woodlands. Hike over 30-miles of trails that travel through talus caves, over rocky spires, and across stretches of wildflower-covered grasslands. Or rock climb among local birdlife including California condors and acorn woodpeckers. Pinnacles Campground offers several campsites for tents and RVs with fire rings and picnic tables as well as water, flush toilets, coin-op showers, and even a swimming pool (April to October). Most RV sites have electrical hookups and nearby dump stations, as well.

When to go

Los Banos features year-round camping fun for the entire family. Summer months, particularly holiday weekends, are popular times to visit. July is historically the hottest month with an average high of 92°F. December is considered the coldest month with average lows of 38°F. While winter might be offseason to some, the nearby Sierra Nevadas and Sierra National Forest are favorites among campers who enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.