Joseph D. Grant County Park is located in the Diablo Range east of San Jose, about 20 miles from Ben Lomond. Situated at elevations between 1,400 and 2,900 feet, the park experiences temperature variations typical of foothill terrain. The 10,882-acre property contains rolling grasslands, oak woodland, and designated equestrian areas where gate closure times (8:15 pm) affect camping access.
What to do
Hiking at Coe State Park: Access over 87 miles of trails at Henry W. Coe State Park where terrain varies substantially. "It's a gigantic park with plenty of hiking trails. You can buy firewood on site but you might want to bring some," notes Andre V. During spring months, wildflower displays become prominent along foothill paths.
Lake activities near Gilroy: The 635-acre reservoir at Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park offers fishing opportunities 35 miles from Ben Lomond. "Good bass fishing," reports Josh M. The lake prohibits swimming but allows non-motorized watercraft subject to inspection.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide optimal wildlife spotting at multiple parks. Deer, wild turkeys, and occasional predators appear at dawn. "Saw lots of wildlife - deer, wild pigs, turkeys, frogs just to name a few," according to Kate L. Many parks require dogs to remain leashed to minimize wildlife disturbance.
What campers like
Free hot showers: Campers appreciate the no-cost shower facilities at Joseph D. Grant County Park. "Bathrooms and showers were available. Camp host was friendly. They also sell ice which was nice to grab for the cooler," reports Melissa S. The park maintains shower facilities without requiring tokens.
Escape from urban areas: The relative isolation provides contrast to nearby urban centers. "Nice, quiet decent cell service. Lots of birds singing. The views of the lake are very nice," notes Adam B. Most parks in the region maintain sufficient distance from highways to minimize noise pollution.
Tent camping locations: Ground conditions vary across sites, with some parks offering more level options than others. "The tent spaces are sizable & you can have a fire. Some seasons there are wild pigs running around everywhere," explains Lisa D. Site selection impacts comfort substantially due to terrain variations and shade availability.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Wild pigs appear in multiple parks around Ben Lomond. "They will roam through the camp ground all through the night if anyone has left any food out. They also leave lots of droppings that are pretty sizable," warns Quyen W. from Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch. Secure food storage remains essential.
Limited phone service: Cell reception varies significantly by location and carrier. Some parks offer intermittent service while others have none. "No cell service, ride up the mountain is nauseating," notes Ashley E. GPS directions may become unreliable in certain areas, requiring advance route planning.
Terrain challenges: Campground elevation and slope affect site suitability. "Terrible terrain for car camping... all of the pull in sites were extremely off-level (even with all our blocks we couldn't get close)," reports Karen about certain locations. Request specific site information when making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require adaptable clothing layers. Summer highs can reach 90°F while evening temperatures may drop below 60°F. "It was fairly hot in mid-spring, and there is not much shade on the trails, especially the dirt roads," explains Austin C. from Henry W. Coe State Park.
Site selection: For families with young children, request sites nearest to bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms were a short walk down hill. They were clean with flushing toilets," notes Sophie S. Site proximity to facilities significantly impacts convenience for families.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer educational programs through visitor centers. "There is a small visitor center close to the entrance, with a few souvenirs and some snacks and drinks. Visitor Center only takes cash," explains Marta T. Check operating hours before planning educational activities.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many horse campgrounds near Ben Lomond, California have restricted access for larger vehicles. "From main road it takes about 35 min drive up the hill through narrow road which is paved but I don't think it is appropriate for RVs," advises Lady L. from Anthony Chabot Regional Park. Contact parks directly for current RV length restrictions.
Site leveling requirements: Bring substantial leveling equipment for most parks in the region. "The walk-in sites may be different, but all of the pull in sites were extremely off-level (even with all our blocks we couldn't get close)," notes Karen. Many campsites require significant adjustments for trailer stability.
Hookup availability: When equestrian camping near Ben Lomond, limited hookup sites fill quickly. "The 12 RV sites... all sites seemed relatively level. Sites #1-4 back up to the Towhee Trail, so expect hikers to pass by close behind you. The better sites are #5-12 with #11 and #12 being the best," suggests Lori T. Make reservations well in advance for equipped sites.
