Joseph D Grant County Park offers dedicated equestrian camping facilities in San Jose, approximately 30 miles east of Stanford, California. The horse camp area sits at an elevation of 1,800 feet in the Diablo Range foothills, where summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F. Trails connect directly to surrounding parklands with routes suitable for both novice and experienced riders.
What to do
Trail riding access: The extensive trail system connects to nearby regional parks with routes varying from 3-15 miles in length. At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, one camper noted, "There is an extensive network of trails accessible from the campground. It's popular, especially on the weekends, and I'd recommend reservations."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot deer, turkeys, and other wildlife. A visitor at Del Valle Campground shared, "The wildlife views are incredible. The water is super clear and they have two beaches with a lifeguard which can get crowded."
Stargazing: The park's distance from urban light pollution creates good conditions for night sky viewing. "There are nights to gather and stargaze. The tent spaces are sizable & you can have a fire," reports a camper about Joseph D Grant County Park.
What campers like
Free hot showers: The equestrian campground provides complimentary shower facilities with reliable hot water. A visitor to Anthony Chabot Regional Park commented, "The showers were great. Hot and FREE!"
Secluded camping: Sites offer more privacy than many Bay Area campgrounds. One camper at Henry W. Coe State Park noted, "Henry Coe is a completely underrated state park. There are ample opportunities for backpacking and bikepacking. The lakes throughout the park are beautiful to camp by."
Historical features: The park includes interesting historical structures. "There is an interesting Ranch House and Museum that showcases the life of Joseph Grant and his offspring, with many eccentric and macabre details of their history in the area," reports a visitor.
What you should know
Gate closure times: The park entrance gate has strict closing hours. A recent visitor noted, "Gate closes 8:15pm. Nice bathrooms no tokens needed, hot water, clean sink for dishes. Lotsa shaded oak spaces. Good trails."
Summer heat considerations: The park can become extremely hot during summer months with limited shade on many trails. At Sunol Regional Wilderness, a camper warned, "Hot now. I've been coming here since in jr. High. Good hiking exploring is fun fishing too."
Water availability: Horse campers should verify current water conditions before arrival as seasonal changes affect availability. Bring extra water during dry periods as natural sources may be unreliable.
Cell service limitations: Most of the horse camping area has very limited or no cellular reception. Plan communications accordingly and download maps before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Best family sites: Choose campsites in the main campground area if camping with children under 10. One visitor to Grant County Park shared, "Clean, bathrooms near by. Very relaxing and away from San Jose."
Kid-friendly activities: The visitor center offers educational programs on weekends from April through October. "The camp is a great base for hikes and bike rides all over the park, but also great just to enjoy the campground," reported a visitor at Henry W. Coe State Park.
Safety precautions: Keep children away from horse areas unless supervised. The park has clear boundaries between family camping and horse camping sections.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for possible wildlife sightings with proper behavior guidelines. A camper mentioned, "Some seasons there are wild pigs running around everywhere."
Tips from RVers
RV length restrictions: Horse trailers with living quarters are accommodated, but the access roads have tight turns requiring caution. At Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park, a visitor advised, "The Fairview RV Park is a great Bay Area location easy to find right off hwy 680, in the Alameda county fairgrounds."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks due to uneven terrain. One camper noted, "We were surprised when we made it to this campground- that it was built on the side of a hill."
Hookup limitations: The equestrian campground offers basic water connections but no electrical hookups. Plan for self-contained operation with alternative power sources.
