Campground options near San Jose, California range from densely wooded redwood sites to open hillside areas with lake access. Elevations vary from near sea level at coastal campgrounds to over 2,000 feet at inland mountain parks. Winter temperatures can drop 40 degrees below valley temperatures at higher elevation campgrounds, creating unexpected camping conditions that require proper preparation.
What to do
Hike archery trails: Mount Madonna County Park offers a 28-target archery course through the woods. A camper noted, "There is an archery trail with 28 targets on a trail through the woods. We were there 3 days in a row and did 20 of the 28. It's really pretty and a cool challenge."
Explore historic sites: Mount Madonna County Park contains remnants of the Hiram Miller Estate. "You can drive up to where the old homestead was and see some ruins," one visitor mentioned. The park also features white fallow deer in pens near the ranger station, descendants from William Randolph Hearst's mansion.
Visit nearby swimming holes: When camping during hot weather, local swimming spots provide relief. At Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground, a camper recommended, "We drove 9 miles to Boulder Creek and found an epic swimming hole by Cafe to help cool us in the 95 degree heat."
Lake activities: For water recreation, Del Valle Campground offers multiple options. "Great lake for paddling as the speed limit for boats is low. Good fishing too. 'Private' covers along the lake to hang out in," shared one visitor. The park includes swimming beaches with lifeguards during summer.
What campers like
Free, clean showers: Unlike many state parks requiring quarters, some county parks offer free showers. A visitor to Uvas Canyon County Park reported, "Super clean and maintained. Especially the bathrooms and showers. The sites are spaced out nicely and there is a water faucet and trash bins plus recycle every couple of sites."
Proximity to Bay Area: Many campsites allow quick getaways without long drives. About Henry Cowell Redwoods, a camper wrote, "Great spot to camp, close to grocery stores and gas stations." Another mentioned Del Valle as a "great escape from the craziness of the Bay Area without having to drive too far. The lack of cell reception really helps the feeling of being away from the city life."
Wildlife viewing: Local campgrounds offer opportunities to spot native animals. "I saw deer and turkeys roaming the campground," noted a Del Valle visitor. At Uvas Canyon, campers mention seeing many birds, though one warned, "A little buggy in the afternoon and found some mosquitoes so take bug spray."
What you should know
Gate closure times: Many parks restrict entry after certain hours. A camper at Joseph D Grant County Park noted, "Gate closes 8:15pm." Plan arrivals accordingly or contact rangers for access codes when arriving late.
Temperature variations: Coastal mountain campgrounds can be significantly colder than nearby cities. At Mount Madonna, a camper warned, "It is a lot colder here than on the valley floor. Prepare for it to be 40deg colder than Gilroy or San Jose. We weren't prepared & had to drive into town & buy more clothes!"
Site selection importance: At many campgrounds, site quality varies dramatically. A visitor to Del Valle noted, "While proximity to the Bay Area makes these campgrounds convenient for weekend trips, the same accessibility can lead to crowding." For Mount Madonna, a camper advised, "'Tan Oak' campground seems to have bigger sites than the others."
Limited cell service: Most mountain campgrounds have minimal connectivity. At Uvas Canyon, a visitor noted, "Good to be disconnected, but if needed, Verizon cell service worked at the campground." Another mentioned Mount Madonna has signal only "if you walk to the dump station!"
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Kids can enjoy riding at some parks. A camper at Mount Madonna mentioned, "Great campground for the kids to bike at but there are a few big hills so make sure they know how to use their brakes." Flatter campgrounds like Henry Cowell offer easier riding.
Cart assistance: Sanborn County Park provides helpful equipment for families. "This is a nice camping away from the car experience. It's a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites. The park provides carts to help with hauling gear, and storage boxes are provided at the site, near the picnic table," reported a visitor.
Creek exploration: Children enjoy water features at several parks. At Uvas Canyon, "Small waterfalls are the highlights of the trail, but kids will enjoy playing in the water on hot days." Watch for poison oak along trails, especially when bringing dogs.
Winter camping options: Off-season camping means fewer crowds. A Uvas Canyon camper noted, "During less crowded times (winter) this campground is one of the best. Extremely beautiful & peaceful surroundings. Lots of trees. Rock walls heavy with moss. Facilities well constructed and maintained."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven parking areas. At Henry W. Coe State Park, a camper warned, "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)."
Size limitations: Large rigs struggle at most area campgrounds. About Sanborn County Park, a reviewer noted, "The RV camp spots are just parking spaces on asphalt. The lower spots can flood due to uneven pavement." Another mentioned, "We stayed here with our 25ft camping trailer. There was plenty of room for it on site 105, however if it was any higher it would be hitting tree limbs."
Narrow access roads: Mountain routes to campgrounds often challenge RV drivers. An RV camper advised, "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. It is a bit of hassle getting here but worth it!"
