Best Camping Near Gonzales, CA

Explore the scenic beauty of Gonzales, CA with nearby campgrounds for an unforgettable camping adventure.

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Nearby Campgrounds

318

Nearby Camp Sites

4.7

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Gonzales, California

3 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Gonzales, California

  • Monterey Bay Aquarium - Located about 18 miles from Gonzales, this renowned aquarium offers a fascinating glimpse into marine life with its diverse exhibits and interactive displays.

  • Cannery Row - Just 18 miles away, this historic waterfront street in Monterey is famous for its charming shops, restaurants, and beautiful ocean views.

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea - Approximately 25 miles from Gonzales, Carmel is known for its picturesque scenery, art galleries, and unique boutiques. The nearby 17-Mile Drive offers stunning coastal vistas.

  • Moss Landing Beach - Only 7 miles away, this beach is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. It's also a great spot for whale watching and enjoying fresh seafood at local eateries like Phil's Fish Market.

  • Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve - About 4 miles from Gonzales, this reserve provides opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems through hiking trails and guided tours.

  • Salinas Valley Wine Country - Known as the "Salad Bowl of the World," Salinas Valley offers numerous wineries where you can enjoy tastings of locally produced wines amidst scenic vineyard landscapes.

  • Laguna Seca Raceway - Located around 20 miles from Gonzales, this world-famous racetrack hosts various motorsport events throughout the year.

Ways to camp near Gonzales, California

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Elkhorn Slough is a popular spot for wildlife viewing, offering opportunities to see sea otters, harbor seals, and various bird species.

The Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz offers visitors the chance to experience unusual gravitational phenomena.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park provides family-friendly rides and games along the coast.

Dennis the Menace Park in Monterey is a great place for kids with its playgrounds and fun activities.

The Ocean Speedway in Watsonville hosts thrilling car races that attract motorsport enthusiasts.

The Boardwalk Holiday Ice event offers seasonal ice skating at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Plan a trip to Gonzales, California

Plan a trip to Gonzales, California

Nestled in the heart of California, Gonzales offers a charming escape for camping enthusiasts eager to explore the scenic beauty and vibrant culture of the region. With several KOA campgrounds nearby, including Salinas / Monterey KOA, Moss Landing KOA Express, and Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday, your adventure begins with choosing the perfect basecamp.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Gonzales. These seasons offer mild weather perfect for outdoor activities without the summer crowds.

Weather Expectations: In spring and fall, expect pleasant days with cool evenings—ideal for hiking or enjoying a campfire. Summers can be warm but are tempered by coastal breezes from nearby beaches. Winters are mild but bring occasional rain showers.

Packing Essentials:

  • Clothing: Layered clothing is key due to fluctuating temperatures between day and night.
  • Gear: Don’t forget your hiking boots for exploring trails or binoculars for bird watching.
  • Extras: A camera is essential to capture stunning landscapes; sunscreen is a must-have year-round.

Planning Tips:

  1. Reservations: Book your campsite early at one of the nearby KOAs to secure your spot during peak seasons.
  2. Activities: Plan visits to local attractions like Pinnacles National Park or take a short drive to explore Monterey Bay’s famous aquarium.
  3. Local Flavors: Indulge in local wines from surrounding vineyards or savor fresh seafood along the coast.

Gonzales serves as an excellent hub for both relaxation and exploration, offering diverse experiences that cater to every camper's desires while ensuring comfort at any of its welcoming KOA locations.

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Gonzales, California with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Gonzales, California, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.