Medeiros Campground - Primitive Introduce
For Californians seeking an accessible, affordable, and straightforward camping experience, Medeiros Campground - Primitive in Gustine, CA, offers a unique option. True to its name, this campground leans into a more rustic, "primitive" style of camping, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate simplicity and self-sufficiency over extensive amenities. It's a place where the focus is on the great outdoors, with ample opportunities for popular pastimes like fishing. Whether you're a seasoned boondocker looking for a no-frills overnight stop, a dedicated angler hoping to cast a line, or simply a local looking for an economical way to enjoy a night under the stars, Medeiros Campground provides a foundational setting for your outdoor adventures.
Despite its primitive designation, Medeiros Campground is celebrated by many for its convenience and value. Its "affordable" nature makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious campers, allowing more Californians to enjoy time outdoors without breaking the bank. The campground's reputation as a "great fishing spot" is a significant draw, indicating its prime location for angling enthusiasts. While it may not offer the lush, shaded environments of some mountain campgrounds, its open layout and basic provisions like fire pits and picnic areas cater to a functional and enjoyable camping experience. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more when it comes to connecting with California's diverse landscapes and enjoying simple pleasures. It's a place that welcomes a variety of campers, from those passing through to those settling in for a few days of fishing and relaxation.
Medeiros Campground - Primitive is located in Gustine, CA 95322, USA. Gustine is a small city in Merced County, situated within California's vast Central Valley. This location makes the campground quite accessible for many Californians, particularly those residing in the Central Valley, Bay Area, or even parts of Southern California looking for a stopping point or a quick getaway.
One of the key accessibility features highlighted by visitors is its convenient proximity to essential amenities. There's a "store and Freeway down the street," which is a significant advantage for a primitive campground. This means campers can easily pick up last-minute supplies, groceries, or gas without having to venture far from their campsite. The direct access to the freeway (likely Interstate 5 or a nearby state route) makes it an excellent choice for those traveling long distances who need an affordable and straightforward overnight stop. While the campground itself is described as primitive, its easy access from major transportation arteries ensures that even though it's a no-frills experience, it's not isolated. This combination of affordability and convenience makes Medeiros Campground a practical choice for a wide range of California travelers and local residents alike, whether they are passing through or specifically targeting the fishing opportunities in the area.
Services Offered:
- Campsites suitable for boondocking and basic tent camping.
- Fire pits available at campsites for campfires (subject to local fire restrictions).
- Picnic areas or tables at campsites for outdoor dining.
- Designated "great fishing spot" in the vicinity.
- Proximity to a store for essential supplies.
- Easy access to a freeway for convenient travel.
- Affordable camping rates.
Features / Highlights:
- Excellent reputation as a fishing destination, making it ideal for anglers.
- Perfect for boondocking enthusiasts seeking a no-hookup, self-sufficient experience.
- Highly affordable, offering a budget-friendly option for camping in California.
- Convenient location with a store and freeway access nearby, ensuring ease of resupply and travel.
- Features useful fire pits, allowing for campfires and outdoor cooking (check for current fire bans).
- Includes picnic areas, providing dedicated spaces for meals.
- Offers a true primitive camping experience, appealing to those who prefer less developed sites.
- Minimum shade during the day, which means campers should be prepared for sun exposure.
- Dark nights, ideal for stargazing due to minimal light pollution.
- Flexibility for campers with varying needs, including those who arrive after hours (though tag display is recommended).
Contact Information:
Address: Gustine, CA 95322, USA
As a "primitive" campground, Medeiros may not have a dedicated public phone number or staffed office on-site. Management typically falls under a broader regional or state authority, or it might be privately managed with minimal contact points. For specific inquiries regarding current conditions, fees, or regulations, it's often best to:
- Visit the campground directly during daylight hours.
- Check online resources and forums for recent visitor experiences.
- For managed public lands, search for information from the relevant county or state parks and recreation department if available. Given its description, it might be a county-managed or privately-owned basic site.
Note: Based on the "primitive" description and user reviews, direct phone contact may not be readily available, and self-service is often implied.
For Californians, Medeiros Campground - Primitive stands out as an incredibly suitable and practical option for a variety of reasons. Firstly, its affordability makes it an accessible choice for a wide demographic of residents. In a state where outdoor recreation can sometimes come with a hefty price tag, Medeiros offers a refreshing alternative that allows more people to enjoy a camping experience without significant financial burden. This is particularly appealing for casual campers, those new to the activity, or budget-conscious families looking for a quick getaway.
Secondly, its reputation as a "great fishing spot" is a major draw for the countless anglers across California. Whether you're an avid fisherman or simply enjoy the tranquility of casting a line, the opportunities for fishing in the vicinity are a significant highlight. This specific appeal caters directly to a large segment of our local outdoor community, making it a recurring destination for many. The "boondocking" friendly nature also resonates with the growing community of RV and van lifers who seek minimalist, self-sufficient camping experiences away from crowded, amenity-heavy parks. This provides a genuine sense of freedom and independence that many Californians value.
Furthermore, the practical benefits of having a "store and Freeway down the street" cannot be overstated. This convenience means less preparation stress and more spontaneity. Campers can easily resupply or make last-minute purchases, making it an ideal stopover for longer road trips across the state, or a convenient short-notice escape for locals. While the "minimum shade" and "dark at night" characteristics might require some preparation (like bringing extra shade or lights), these features also contribute to a unique experience: clear, dark skies perfect for stargazing, a rare treat for many living in California's more populated areas. The presence of basic amenities like fire pits and picnic areas, despite the primitive classification, ensures that essential comforts are covered. Medeiros Campground, therefore, is not just a place to stay; it's a practical, affordable, and authentic slice of California's outdoor life, perfectly suited for locals seeking simplicity, good fishing, and an easy escape.
Medeiros Campground - Primitive Photos










Medeiros Campground - Primitive Location
Medeiros Campground - Primitive Reviews
Great place to visit or camp. Great fishing spot. Affordable. Store and Freeway down the street. Minimum shade during the day and dark at night. Fire pits are useful. Picnic areas as well.
Apr 22, 2025 · Laurence FernandezReally nice place to boondock. No presence of a Ranger in the 3 days we were there. Campsite next to had 11 cars more then half came after hours never had tags in the window. Music both nights till 3 AM.
Jun 29, 2025 · Lorraine O'BrienEmployee at entrance was friendly and helpful. And I was glad to see armed law enforcement rangers patrolling the park. Those are the only reasons I gave it 2 stars. I'm ok with primitive camping but place was covered in trash. Filled up a bag of trash from just our site and didn't get all of it. Infested with flies, probably because of trash. From the voluminous amount of discarded beer bottles and bottle caps, I'm guessing the number one activity here is getting drunk. Our table and camp site covered in fish guts. Every flat surface covered in gang graffiti. Obviously they need more police here.
Apr 21, 2025 · chris mCamping right on the water. Big rig friendly. Boondocking at its very best. Perfect for passing through. Hot, but nice breeze. Very clean. The reservoir is full of clear clean water.
Jun 07, 2024 · David ManpearlNice camping along the lake. Camping costs $20 at the ranger station ($10 per additional car). Close to town (just 6 mins drive to the gas station).Pros: Full cell service. Trash cans and restroom are available. Beautiful views. Easy lake access. Not crowded on a weeknight (but far from empty). Big spots for tents. Fire pits — bring firewood. Covered picnic tables.Cons: After heavy rain, parts of the road / trail were flooded. Many trash cans were knocked over and trash was everywhere around the campground. Some road noise. Campsites are fairly spaced out, but there aren’t many trees for privacy.Overall a pretty spot with lots of campsites, but the trash everywhere was disappointing.
Mar 29, 2023 · Sam
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