Joseph D. Grant County Park spans over 10,000 acres of oak woodland and rolling hills at elevations between 1,500-2,900 feet. The park remains open year-round with temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Gate closure at 8:15 pm affects all visitors, requiring equestrian campers to plan arrivals before this time or risk being locked out.
What to do
Explore Lake Del Valle: At Del Valle Campground, riders can combine horseback trails with water activities. "The lake is also very picturesque. There is a swimming area, & there are picnic tables & nice-sized camp sites," notes emmy. The lake area features speed limits for boats, making it safe for riders to visit with their horses.
Mountain biking trails: When not riding horses, visitors can explore the extensive trail network by bike. "Great place to go hiking & trail running. The hills are pretty intense, but they're beautiful!" according to emmy at Del Valle. Many trails connect with equestrian paths, allowing mixed-use recreation options.
Wildlife observation: The park's varied terrain provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Henry W. Coe State Park, visitors report "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," according to Austin C. Early morning rides offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Proximity to urban areas: The equestrian facilities at Joseph D. Grant County Park provide a quick escape from nearby cities. "Paradise an hour from the city. It is great for laid back camping!" writes Kyla M. about nearby Anthony Chabot Regional Park, highlighting the accessibility that makes equestrian camping near New Almaden popular.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "Bathrooms are extremely clean and well kept. The lake is nice (and you may spot geese or ducks), and there's plenty of room for kids to run around," reports Quyen W. from Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch, which offers similar amenities to Joseph D. Grant County Park.
Diverse terrain: The landscape around New Almaden provides varied riding experiences. "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," writes Caitlin S., describing terrain similar to what equestrians encounter at Joseph D. Grant Park.
What you should know
Wild pig presence: Be prepared for wildlife encounters including wild pigs. "They do not sell ice but firewood is available for $13 a bundle. Not much to do in the park. Lots of beautiful wildlife," notes Ashley E. about Joseph D. Grant County Park. Secure food in storage containers overnight to prevent unwanted visits.
Limited shade: Many campsites lack adequate coverage. "Campsites are fairly spare, with some having shade," mentions Renee W. about Joseph D. Grant County Park. Bring portable shade structures for horses during summer months when temperatures can exceed 90°F.
Water availability: While water is available at designated locations, reliability varies seasonally. "The sites are primitive and the water source questionable and unreliable. I hiked in all the water I needed," reports MarinMaverick about Sunol Regional Wilderness, which shares similar water challenges to equestrian camping at Joseph D. Grant.
Tips for camping with families
Plan arrival times: With gates closing at 8:15 pm, families must organize travel accordingly. "Gates closes 8:15pm. Nice bathrooms no tokens needed, hot water, clean sink for dishes. Lotsa shaded oak spaces. Good trails," advises Jason R. about Joseph D. Grant County Park.
Wildlife education opportunities: Use animal sightings as teaching moments. "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, shower & bathroom are clean," explains Lisa D., highlighting the educational attractions at Joseph D. Grant County Park.
Temperature preparation: Bring layers for significant temperature fluctuations. "I came here from SF Bay for 2 nights on a weekend. It was fairly hot in mid-spring, and there is not much shade on the trails, especially the dirt roads," warns Austin C. about similar conditions at nearby parks.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: While equestrian camping accommodates trailers, large RVs face challenges. "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 (even with all our blocks we couldn't get close)," cautions Karen about Henry W. Coe State Park, describing terrain issues similar to those at Joseph D. Grant.
Cell service limitations: Communication can be unreliable in the hills. "No cell service, ride up the mountain is nauseating," notes Ashley E. about Joseph D. Grant County Park. Download maps and trail information before arrival.
Level challenges: RV sites may require significant leveling equipment. "The roads through the campground itself is so steep/narrow and windy that it would be extremely difficult to back in (we watched someone get stuck while trying). There wasn't a flat tent spot at our campsite either," Karen explains about similar terrain challenges at nearby parks.
Legend
