Joseph D. Grant County Park offers primitive camping in a quiet setting about 25 miles east of San Jose. The park spans 10,882 acres in the eastern foothills of the Diablo Range with elevations between 1,500 and 2,900 feet. Spring brings wildflower displays across the grasslands, while summer temperatures can exceed 90°F with minimal shade at most campsites.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Thousand Trails San Benito, wildlife sightings are common throughout the property. "We had Condors above our cabin, deer around us, wild pigs crossing the roads. Its amazing!!!! My favorite part of our California trip was staying here!" reports Samantha N.
Fishing at local reservoirs: Modesto Reservoir provides ample shore fishing opportunities directly from campsites. "Great fishing from campground spots as well at boating and other water sports," notes Russell L. The reservoir's accessible shoreline makes it convenient for anglers of all experience levels.
Orienteering course: Modesto Reservoir features a designated one-mile orienteering course. "There is also a 1 Mile Orienteering Course which is used to train my boys to use a compass," writes Eddie N. This activity provides educational value while exploring the natural surroundings.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground offers peaceful sites away from crowds. "We're dry camping at the Wildcat site which the ranger said is rarely used. There is no one else in the whole campground!" writes Erik J., highlighting the privacy available.
Wildlife encounters: Animal sightings enhance the camping experience near Los Banos. "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," shares Butch C. about his stay at Thousand Trails San Benito.
Equestrian-friendly areas: While traditional horse campgrounds near Los Banos are limited, Henry W. Coe State Park offers extensive trail systems suitable for day rides. "Henry Coe is a completely underrated state park. There are ample opportunities for backpacking and bikepacking," notes Caitlin S., referencing the diverse terrain available.
What you should know
Limited water access: At Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park, water recreation options vary with seasonal conditions. "The lake is closed to any and all water-craft because the water level is too low," reported Toni R. during her visit. Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year.
Wildlife management considerations: Multiple parks require proper food storage due to local wildlife. "They will roam through the camp ground all through the night if anyone has left any food out," warns Quyen W. about the wild pigs at Coyote Lake.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies substantially between campgrounds. "Cell phone service for Xfinity/Verizon is spotty at best. There is weak wifi," notes Toni R. at Coyote Lake, while other reviewers mention complete disconnection in more remote areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Salinas-Monterey KOA provides organized activities for children. "They have nice facilities and a heated pool although a hot tub would be nice also," reports Ben V., adding "Not a lot of outdoor activities other than the pool and bags and the K9 trail, but pleasant to walk through."
Educational opportunities: Incorporating learning into outdoor experiences enhances family trips. "We saw lots of wildlife - deer, wild pigs, turkeys, frogs just to name a few," shares Kate L. about Coyote Lake, providing opportunities for nature education.
Site selection for privacy: When booking at Thousand Trails San Benito, consider the layout. "We stayed towards the back site 353 I believe and had no others around us," writes Alberto C., noting this created a better experience for their family.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Henry W. Coe State Park, RV parking requires preparation. "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) and the roads through the campground itself is so steep/narrow and windy that it would be extremely difficult to back in," warns Karen.
Hook-up availability: RV campers should note the varying electrical options. "There are a large selection of 50 and 30 amp sites for the rv crowd," mentions Butch C. about Thousand Trails San Benito, while other campgrounds may offer limited or no hookups.
Road condition alerts: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. "Although not far off of Highway 99, the road from Chowchilla was incredibly rough. 15 miles of poorly-patched pot holes. I went no faster than 35 mph but still bounced the rig badly," cautions John W. about his drive to COE Eastman Lake.
