Lodge Campground

For Californians with a passion for off-road adventure or those simply seeking an incredibly affordable and peaceful retreat in a unique setting, Lodge Campground in San Juan Bautista offers a distinct experience. Situated within the vast Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA), this campground serves as a primary hub for enthusiasts of ATVs, dirt bikes, and other off-highway vehicles (OHVs), but also provides a surprisingly serene environment for general campers looking for a budget-friendly and accessible stopover.

Lodge Campground isn't your typical plush resort-style park; it's designed with functionality and the spirit of outdoor recreation in mind. Despite being located within an area renowned for motorized sports, reviewers consistently highlight the prevailing quietude, especially after hours. This unexpected tranquility is a testament to the park's enforcement of quiet hours and the respectful nature of its visitors. One camper specifically noted that it's "NOT the campground for a loud or drinking party," emphasizing its suitability for those who "enjoy nature and respect others in the nearby sites."

What truly sets Lodge Campground apart is its incredible value. At just $10 a night, it offers an astonishingly affordable option for camping in California, a state where outdoor accommodations can often be quite pricey. This budget-friendly aspect makes it an accessible choice for a wide range of Californians, from avid riders making a weekend trip to road-trippers needing a last-minute, convenient, and safe place to rest.

The campground provides essential amenities that enhance comfort, including restrooms and showers with warm water – a welcome luxury, especially after a day of adventuring. While one reviewer mentioned some issues with light functionality and cleanliness in specific restrooms, the overall sentiment points to the availability of these crucial facilities. The natural surroundings, with "plenty of tall trees surrounding over the most of the sites," offer ample shade and a pleasant, natural ambiance. Even the chorus of frogs at night, described as "beautiful," adds to the unique, nature-filled experience.

It's important for prospective visitors to understand that while it's a good place for general camping, the park's primary focus is on OHV recreation. This means you will likely encounter ATVs and dirt bikes, particularly during daylight hours. However, the distinct camping areas and enforced quiet hours help maintain separation and peace. For Californians who either participate in OHV sports or don't mind the background of such activities during the day, Lodge Campground offers a unique blend of adventure, affordability, and natural serenity.

Lodge Campground is located within Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA), with its address being San Juan Bautista, CA 95045, USA. This places it in San Benito County, approximately an hour's drive south of San Jose and conveniently accessible from various parts of Central and Northern California.

The campground's location within a State Vehicular Recreation Area means it's specifically designed for easy access for vehicles, including those towing OHVs. Hollister Hills SVRA is typically accessed via well-maintained roads, making the journey straightforward for RVs, trailers, and passenger vehicles. From major California highways like US-101, you would connect to local routes leading directly to the park entrance near San Juan Bautista. While one past reviewer noted "Google maps was a little confusing," the park itself is generally well-signed once you are in the vicinity.

Upon arrival at Hollister Hills SVRA, visitors will proceed to the main entrance station at the Lower Ranch where fees are collected. Lodge Campground is one of four campgrounds located in the Lower Ranch area, which is the primary zone for motorcycle and ATV activities. This integrated location means that campers are literally in the heart of the action if they are there for OHV recreation.

For Californians utilizing the campground for a general stopover, its proximity to San Juan Bautista (a historic mission town with shops and restaurants) and other Central Coast attractions is a bonus. It serves as a practical overnight spot for those traveling along central California routes, offering a low-cost, convenient, and relatively safe place to stay. The ease of access from major roads makes it a suitable last-minute option, even for after-hours arrivals, as demonstrated by previous visitors.

While the focus is on motorized recreation, the layout and management of the park, including its amenities, make it a viable option for a broader range of Californian campers who appreciate its affordability and the unique environment it offers, especially given its strategic location in the heart of San Benito County.

• Tent and RV Camping: Suitable for various camping setups (RV length limits may apply, usually up to 25 feet for trailers and 25 feet for motorhomes, so confirm with park).
• Affordable Rate: Currently $10 per night (subject to change, always verify).
• Restrooms with Flush Toilets: Available throughout the campground.
• Showers with Warm Water: Available for campers, with working lights (though some may have issues as per reviews).
• Fire Pits/Rings: Available at campsites (note: always check current fire restrictions, as wood and charcoal fires may be prohibited during high fire risk periods; gas fire pits are generally allowed).
• Picnic Tables: Generally available at campsites.
• General Store: On-site at Lodge Camp, offering motorcycle and ATV parts, riding apparel, camping supplies, ice, drinks, snacks, and packaged food.
• Day Use: Day use is allowed throughout the park, including camping areas.
• Park Staff/Rangers: On-site for enforcement of rules and general assistance (though presence might be minimal after hours, as noted by one reviewer).
• No Bear Boxes: Indicate a lack of bear activity in the immediate area.
• No Hook-ups or Dump Station: Campers should be self-contained or plan for off-site services.

• Exceptional Affordability: At just $10 a night, it's one of California's most budget-friendly camping options.
• Access to OHV Trails: Direct access to an extensive network of trails for motorcycles, ATVs, and 4-wheelers within Hollister Hills SVRA, including various tracks and beginner areas.
• Surprisingly Quiet Evenings: Despite its OHV focus, strict enforcement of quiet hours ensures peaceful nights, making it suitable for nature lovers.
• Basic Comfort Amenities: Provides essential restrooms and showers with warm water, enhancing the camping experience.
• Natural Surroundings: Campgrounds are shaded by "plenty of tall trees," offering a pleasant, natural setting.
• Unique Nocturnal Sounds: "So many frogs at night, they sound beautiful!" providing a distinctive nature soundscape.
• On-Site General Store: Convenient access to camping supplies, snacks, and specific OHV parts.
• Family-Friendly for Riders: Offers dedicated children's riding areas (for smaller engine vehicles) next to Lodge Camp.
• Safe and Secure: Campers reported feeling safe, even when arriving after hours.

Address: San Juan Bautista, CA 95045, USA (within Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area)

For general park information and contact regarding Hollister Hills SVRA, which includes Lodge Campground:

Hollister Hills SVRA Office Phone: (831) 637-3874

Hollister Hills SVRA General Store (at Lodge Camp) Phone: (831) 637-9780

As this is a state park campground, reservations may be available through the California State Parks reservation system (

Reserve California

For Californians seeking a truly unique and incredibly affordable outdoor experience, Lodge Campground within Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area offers a compelling proposition. It’s a place that caters to both the adrenaline-seeking OHV enthusiast and the budget-conscious camper simply looking for a quiet, convenient stopover. This versatility makes it particularly suitable for locals who appreciate diverse outdoor activities and value practical, accessible camping options in their home state.

One of the most appealing aspects for any Californian is the price. At a mere $10 a night, Lodge Campground stands out as an exceptional value, making camping accessible to a wider range of residents. This affordability, combined with the presence of essential amenities like warm showers and restrooms, provides a comfortable experience without breaking the bank. For those spontaneous weekend getaways or last-minute road trip stops, the ease of payment and arrival, even after hours, adds significant convenience.

While the park is known for its OHV recreation, the reviews consistently highlight the unexpected tranquility of the campground itself, especially during quiet hours. This means that even if you're not an ATV rider, you can still enjoy a peaceful night's sleep under the stars, serenaded by the sounds of nature. This respectful atmosphere, enforced by park staff, allows for a harmonious coexistence between different types of outdoor enthusiasts, reflecting a key aspect of California's diverse recreational landscape.

Furthermore, its location in San Juan Bautista places it within reach of other Central Coast attractions, offering the possibility of combining a stay at Lodge Campground with visits to historic missions, local towns, or other natural areas. For Californians, it’s an opportunity to explore a less-conventional facet of their state's park system, one that supports specialized recreational activities while still providing a welcoming environment for general camping.

Ultimately, Lodge Campground is a testament to California's varied outdoor offerings. It’s not just for the hardcore off-roader; it's for anyone who appreciates affordability, functional amenities, and a quiet night under the stars, even if surrounded by the daytime hum of adventure. For locals, it's a practical, unique, and highly recommended option that offers a different, yet equally rewarding, slice of the Californian outdoor experience.

Lodge Campground

San Juan Bautista, CA 95045, USA