Joseph D Grant County Park offers equestrian-specific camping within one hour of San Jose and Santa Cruz. Located near Mount Hamilton at approximately 2,200 feet elevation, the park features oak-studded hillsides and access to over 51 miles of trails. The park enforces an 8:15 PM gate closure time that all visitors must observe.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn or dusk: Henry W. Coe State Park provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Saw plenty of wildlife (lizards, snakes, birds, fish). It was fairly hot in mid-spring, and there is not much shade on the trails, especially the dirt roads," reports Austin C. after backpacking in the park.
Horseback riding on dedicated trails: Grant County Park offers riders designated areas for equestrian use. "Great place to stargaze, hike, & camp. Has showers & bathroom & don't forget to check out the mansion!!" notes Lisa D., highlighting amenities available to all campers including those with horses.
Lake activities at nearby waters: Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park provides water recreation options within 20 minutes of Gilroy. "My first camping trip and we had a great time! No internet and no electricity. Restroom was clean," shares Hae Sook Y., who enjoyed the lake views from her tent.
What campers like
Free hot showers: Joseph D. Grant County Park earns praise for its shower facilities. "Showers are free only one shower per restroom though so be prepared to wait," notes Ashley E., adding that the sites are "large and clean" despite limited activities within the park.
Historical attractions: Grant County Park features historic buildings worth exploring. "Great park with hiking, great views of Mt. Hamilton and a lake up the road a way, there's also a mansion & rose garden on the property," explains Lisa D., highlighting lesser-known attractions at the park.
Stargazing opportunities: Del Valle Campground offers excellent night sky viewing due to its distance from urban light pollution. "This is nice little campground that is only about 15 minutes from downtown Livermore. The lack of cell reception really helps the feeling of being away from the city life," writes Uriel S., who appreciated the escape from Bay Area bustle.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park has significant wild pig activity. "Bathrooms are extremely clean and well kept. The lake is nice (and you may spot geese or ducks)... Be sure to lock all food up! They will roam through the camp ground all through the night if anyone has left any food out," warns Quyen W.
Gate closure timing: Several parks enforce strict entry/exit times. "Gate closes 8:15pm," notes Jason R. about Joseph D Grant County Park, emphasizing the need to plan arrivals accordingly.
Terrain challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult terrain for certain camping styles. "We were surprised when we made it to this campground- that it was built on the side of a hill. The walk-in sites may be different, but all of the pull in sites were extremely off-level," explains Karen about Henry W. Coe State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with recreation facilities: San Benito RV and Camping Resort offers organized activities for children. "They had a tv, games and arts for the kids in the clubhouse. The pool was closed for the winter but I can't wait to visit again," shares Bonnie O. about her family's experience.
Choose sites with wildlife viewing potential: Santa Clara County parks often have abundant wildlife for children to observe. "Deer wandered through camp at all times of the day. You can see wild boar passing along the hillsides. We also saw a couple of foxes one evening on the perimeter," reports Butch C. about San Benito RV and Camping Resort.
Consider shade availability: Henry W. Coe State Park campsites vary significantly in sun exposure. "This small and quite campground is our favorite in Bay Area. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit, with enough of trees and privacy," shares Marta T., though other reviewers note some sites lack adequate shade.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations at equestrian sites: Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park accommodates both RVs and horse trailers but requires planning. "For SUV tents, check out campsite pics on other sites before booking. SUV tents are usually limited to one entrance/exit point on the tent," advises Toni R., noting that site layouts vary significantly.
Hookup availability varies: Smaller county parks near Santa Cruz often have limited electrical options. "No hookups where we camped for the travel trailer," notes Ed E. about Del Valle Campground, indicating self-sufficiency is important for RVers at many area parks.
Narrow access roads: Some horse camps have challenging approach roads. "Part of the KOA franchise, this is a very clean, well positioned RV and Cabin park for exploring the Monterey, Salinas, Watsonville, Santa Cruz area," writes Richard S., emphasizing the importance of checking access details before arrival with larger rigs.
