Joseph D. Grant County Park offers equestrian-friendly camping 25 miles east of downtown Sunnyvale in the Diablo Range foothills. The park sits at elevations between 1,400-2,400 feet in oak woodland terrain. During summer months, temperatures can exceed 90°F with minimal shade at some campsites, while winter brings occasional freezing overnight temperatures.
What to do
Trail hiking and mountain biking: Access over 51 miles of multi-use trails directly from camp with routes ranging from beginner-friendly valley paths to challenging ridge climbs. "The combination of accessibility to the Bay Area and isolation from urban environments makes this location popular with local equestrians seeking quick weekend escapes without traveling far from Silicon Valley," notes a visitor to Henry W. Coe State Park. "There are multiple hiking and riding trails connect directly from the campgrounds to wider trail networks within the 10,000+ acre park system."
Wildlife viewing: Observe native California species including deer, turkeys, and woodpeckers. "Lots of wildlife. Saw deer, wild pigs, turkeys, frogs just to name a few," reports a visitor to Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park. "I was under 2 big oaks that were buzzing with bird activity."
Stargazing: Take advantage of the relative distance from urban light pollution. "There are nights to gather and stargaze," mentions a camper at Joseph D Grant County Park. "Great place to stargaze, hike, & camp," adds another park visitor.
What campers like
Proximity to Bay Area: Horse campgrounds near Sunnyvale provide easy access for weekend trips. "Close to home! Love the hiking trails," writes a camper at Del Valle Campground. "Wonderful place to go hiking & trail running. The hills are pretty intense, but they're beautiful!"
Clean facilities: Maintained restrooms and shower facilities receive positive mentions. "Clean, bathrooms near by. Very relaxing and away from San Jose," notes a visitor to Grant County Park. "The restrooms were a short walk down hill. They were clean with flushing toilets," adds another camper at Joseph D. Grant Park Campground.
Peace and quiet: Most equestrian camping areas maintain a tranquil atmosphere. "Clean, quiet and quick escape in Bay Area," says a camper at Joseph D. Grant Park Campground. "The campground was quiet and it was mostly couples or small family groups. The hiking is quite beautiful and the woodpeckers were busy storing acorns."
What you should know
Gate closure times: Plan arrivals carefully. "Gate closes 8:15pm," warns a camper at Joseph D Grant County Park. "Nice bathrooms no tokens needed, hot water, clean sink for dishes. Lotsa shaded oak spaces. Good trails."
Limited services: Most equestrian campgrounds have basic amenities only. "They do not sell ice but firewood is available for $13 a bundle. Not much to do in the park," reports a visitor to Joseph D Grant County Park. "The sites were large and clean. Showers are free only one shower per restroom though so be prepared to wait."
Wildlife concerns: Be prepared for encounters with local fauna. "Some seasons bring wild pig activity in the area," cautions a camper at Anthony Chabot Regional Park. "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.)."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites strategically: Select campsites with natural features that appeal to children. "Campsites are along the beautiful Coyote lake. The lakeside sites are mostly shaded as are the sites along the road. Sites 43, 44 and 45 would be the most secluded," recommends a visitor to Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park.
Pack for weather variations: Bring appropriate clothing for significant day-to-night temperature swings. "We came in November, just in time for a temperature drop and some nice gusts. I'm not going to hold the chill against this area because I didn't dress accordingly," notes a camper at Joseph D. Grant Park Campground.
Plan for hiking ability levels: Consider trail difficulty when traveling with children. "The trails vary in difficulty from gentle paths suitable for novice riders to more challenging routes with elevation changes," reports a visitor to Las Trampas Regional Wilderness. "The other 2-3 trails that you'll find here are all worth taking and all fairly easy-to-medium in difficulty."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring additional leveling blocks for uneven sites. "The campsites all have decent views–though best ones abut the lake on the map. They look close to the lake on the map but they are actually way up high above it," reports a camper at Anthony Chabot Regional Park.
Hook-up availability: Verify utility connections when booking. "We camp here with our travel trailer at the start of each season, to check out all our systems. If you are visiting and want to go to San Francisco, I think this is one of the closest RV parks to the city," notes a visitor to Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park.
Vehicle clearance considerations: Be aware of road conditions for larger vehicles. "The road in is fairly winding with a bit of a drop down the cliff. If you're heading in at dusk or dawn, go slow. You will see deer stepping through the road," advises a camper at Anthony Chabot Regional Park.
Legend
