Bee Campground

Introduction / Overview

For us Californians, outdoor recreation comes in many forms, and for those who thrill at the roar of an engine and the challenge of rugged terrain, Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) is a legendary destination. Nestled within this expansive park is Bee Campground, a practical and popular choice for both day-trippers and overnight campers looking to immerse themselves in the excitement of off-highway vehicle (OHV) sports. This isn't your typical quiet, forested retreat; Bee Campground is a vibrant basecamp designed for enthusiasts of motorcycles, ATVs, and other off-road vehicles. It provides essential amenities that make a day of riding, or a weekend of adventure, comfortable and convenient. For locals in the San Juan Bautista area and across California, Bee Campground offers an affordable and accessible entry point into a world of exhilarating outdoor fun. This article aims to provide a clear, factual, and engaging overview of Bee Campground, drawing on real customer experiences and publicly available information to help you plan your next adrenaline-filled trip to Hollister Hills.

Hollister Hills SVRA is unique in the California State Parks system, dedicated specifically to providing opportunities for OHV recreation while also offering designated non-motorized trails. Bee Campground, as one of the key camping areas within the Lower Ranch (motorcycle and ATV area) of the park, plays a crucial role in supporting this vibrant community. It’s a place where friendly rangers are on hand to assist, and where the thrill of the ride is balanced with essential comforts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or curious about the OHV scene, understanding the facilities, rules, and atmosphere of Bee Campground will help you prepare for a memorable visit to this dynamic California State Park.

Location and Accessibility

Bee Campground is located within Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area at 7800 Cienega Road, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045, USA. This address is the main entrance to the entire Hollister Hills SVRA, situated approximately 5 miles south of the town of Hollister. For Californians, accessing the park is straightforward, typically involving a drive along Cienega Road. From Union Road, visitors would head south on Cienega Road, turning right at a stop sign to continue on Cienega Road for about 4 to 5 miles until they reach the main entrance on the right. While the address is listed as San Juan Bautista, it's more accurately associated with Hollister due to the closer proximity and direct access route.

Once inside Hollister Hills SVRA, Bee Campground is one of several camping areas within the Lower Ranch, which is designated for motorcycle and ATV recreation. The internal roads within the park are generally well-maintained, allowing for easy access to the campsites with vehicles and trailers. Its location makes it particularly convenient for residents of the Central Coast, Bay Area, and Central Valley, offering a relatively short drive to a dedicated off-road haven. The park's distinct areas for different vehicle types (motorcycle & ATV, four-wheeled vehicles, and non-motorized) are clearly marked, ensuring visitors navigate to the correct section for their preferred activity. This accessibility, combined with the dedicated facilities, makes Bee Campground a prime spot for locals seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience without venturing too far off the paved path.

Services Offered

• Campsites: Bee Campground offers sites primarily for motorcycle and ATV enthusiasts. While not individually marked like some traditional campgrounds, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis, providing space for tent and RV camping. The capacity of Bee Campground is noted to be around 14 vehicles.
• Affordable Pricing: A significant highlight repeatedly mentioned by users is the highly affordable cost. Day use is only $5 per vehicle, and overnight camping is a mere $10 per vehicle per night. This makes it one of the most budget-friendly camping options in California.
• Free Hot Showers: This is a standout amenity for a campground at this price point. Bee Campground, along with Lodge and Madrone campgrounds within the Lower Ranch, provides free hot showers, a welcome comfort after a dusty day of riding.
• Flush Toilets: Clean and functional flush toilets are available, a considerable upgrade from the pit toilets often found at similarly priced or more rustic campgrounds.
• Potable Water: Campers have access to potable water, which is essential for drinking, cooking, and cleaning, reducing the need to bring large quantities of water.
• Free Wi-Fi: Surprisingly, given its setting, fast and free Wi-Fi is available at Bee Campground (as well as Lodge and Madrone campgrounds). This allows campers to stay connected, check trail conditions, or simply relax with some digital entertainment.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each site typically includes a picnic table for dining and a fire pit for campfires. Campers should always check for current fire restrictions, which can vary by season in California.
• Camp Store: A small camp store is located at the Lodge Campground within the Lower Ranch, offering basic groceries, camping supplies, and firewood.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed in the park and campgrounds, provided they are on a tended leash (maximum 6 feet). This is a great feature for locals who want to bring their canine companions along for the adventure.

Features / Highlights

• OHV Riding Access: The primary highlight is direct access to an extensive network of trails within Hollister Hills SVRA for motorcycles and ATVs. The park boasts nearly 200 miles of trails across 6,800 acres, offering diverse terrain for all skill levels.
• One-Way Trails: Many trails are one-way, enhancing safety and flow for riders, which is a significant operational feature that users appreciate.
• Affordability: The exceptionally low daily and camping fees make Hollister Hills SVRA and Bee Campground a highly attractive option for budget-conscious Californians seeking outdoor recreation.
• Friendly and Helpful Rangers: Customer reviews consistently praise the "super friendly and helpful" rangers. Their presence contributes to a positive and safe environment within the park.
• Post-Ride Comforts: The combination of free hot showers, flush toilets, and available Wi-Fi offers a surprising level of comfort for a state vehicular recreation area campground, making post-ride relaxation much more enjoyable.
• Open Year-Round (with caveats): The park is open 365 days a year, allowing for year-round recreation. However, it's crucial to note that certain areas, like the Adobe and Renz areas, close during wet conditions for public safety and resource protection, which may affect trail access after rain.
• Noisy by Day, Quiet by Night: As an OHV park, campers should expect considerable vehicle noise during the day. However, a key highlight for many is that vehicle operation is generally restricted from sunrise to sunset, leading to surprisingly quiet nights, especially midweek.
• Community Atmosphere: For OHV enthusiasts, the campground fosters a sense of community, where like-minded individuals gather to share their passion for off-roading.

Contact Information

Address: 7800 Cienega Road, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045, USA (Main entrance to Hollister Hills SVRA)

Phone: (831) 637-3874 (Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area main line)

Website: For the most up-to-date information on park hours, fees, trail closures (especially after rain), events, and pass information, locals should always refer to the official California State Parks website for Hollister Hills SVRA: www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1179

It is highly recommended to call the park directly or check their website/social media channels before visiting, especially if traveling during or after periods of rain, as sections of the park can close temporarily.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For us Californians who live for the thrill of the ride or simply appreciate a unique and affordable outdoor experience, Bee Campground at Hollister Hills SVRA is an ideal destination. Its suitability for locals stems from several key factors, chief among them being its dedicated focus on off-highway vehicle recreation. This isn't a general-purpose campground; it's a specialized hub where dirt bike and ATV enthusiasts can find a supportive community, well-maintained trails, and a basecamp designed to meet their specific needs.

The affordability of Bee Campground is a massive draw. At just $5 for day use and $10 for overnight camping per vehicle, it offers incredible value, making it accessible for frequent visits and extended stays without breaking the bank. This low cost, coupled with surprisingly good amenities like free hot showers, flush toilets, and even free Wi-Fi, creates a comfort level often unheard of in such budget-friendly settings. We Californians know that finding such a combination of accessibility, specific recreational focus, and value is a rare gem.

While the daytime noise from vehicle activity is part of the experience, the park's policy of no off-roading after sunset ensures quiet nights, allowing campers to truly rest and recharge. The presence of friendly and helpful rangers, as noted by visitors, adds a layer of security and assistance that enhances the overall experience. For families with young riders, or groups of friends looking for an adrenaline-fueled weekend, Bee Campground provides a safe, welcoming, and exciting environment. It’s a place where you can hone your riding skills, enjoy the unique terrain of the Gabilan Mountains, and forge lasting memories, all within a convenient drive from many of California's major population centers. Bee Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a vibrant part of California's off-road culture, waiting for locals to explore its trails and enjoy its unique hospitality.

Bee Campground

San Juan Bautista, CA 95045, USA