Vasona Lake County Park
A sprawling park centered around a serene lake, offering family fun with a miniature train, playgrounds, and scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Vasona Lake County Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling park centered around a serene lake, offering family fun with a miniature train, playgrounds, and scenic trails.
"This park is a weekend wonderland! The lake is the center piece with beautiful views."
🎯 Ride Tickets Tip
Purchase tickets for the train and carousel in advance or at the pay machines to avoid lines.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfortable shoes for trails and park exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad
Near the main playground
A charming miniature steam train offering nostalgic rides through the park. A must-do for families and train enthusiasts!
Vasona Reservoir
Central to the park
Enjoy scenic walks, fishing, or boating on the tranquil waters. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature.
Playgrounds and Carousel
Multiple locations
Multiple playgrounds cater to different age groups, and a classic carousel adds to the fun for younger visitors.
Picnic Areas and Lawns
Throughout the park
Sprawling lawns and numerous picnic areas with grills make it an ideal spot for family gatherings and outdoor dining.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Visit
Parking and Entry Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ride Tickets Tip
Purchase tickets for the train and carousel in advance or at the pay machines to avoid lines.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfortable shoes for trails and park exploration.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
Leashed dogs are welcome! Great for dog owners looking for a scenic spot for their furry friends.
🚗 Parking Pass Tip
Be patient with the pay machines for parking passes; slowly pull out your card to avoid errors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ride Tickets Tip
Purchase tickets for the train and carousel in advance or at the pay machines to avoid lines.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfortable shoes for trails and park exploration.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
Leashed dogs are welcome! Great for dog owners looking for a scenic spot for their furry friends.
🚗 Parking Pass Tip
Be patient with the pay machines for parking passes; slowly pull out your card to avoid errors.
🛶 Accessible Boating
The park now features an ADA-accessible boat dock and kayak launch for inclusive water activities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Vasona Lake County Park is widely praised as a beautiful and versatile destination, perfect for families, picnics, and outdoor activities. Visitors appreciate the scenic lake, the charming train ride, and the ample green spaces. While generally well-loved, some find the park can get quite crowded on weekends, and parking can sometimes be a hassle with tricky pay machines.
"This park is a weekend wonderland! The lake is the center piece with beautiful views. The kids really enjoy the steam train. Waking around the lake and to the dam helps me calm and clear my mind. The park is not too far from downtown and restaurants. It is big enough to spread out from the crowd for peace and quiet. Happy experience!"
C Lau
"A sprawling park set around a beautiful lake, ideal for a relaxing picnic, fishing, boating, walking, cycling or jogging!
This park is located near the charming town of Los Gatos in California. One can easily drive down inside the park and park your car in the many car parks around the lake. Seating benches, tables and picnic areas are located at convenient places. Drinking water taps at various places adds to the convenience.
One can see a number of boats which are available on hire and also people fishing in some areas around the lake. Water birds, especially ducks abound in the lake and there is a bow shaped wooden bridge at one end of the lake and a concrete dam on one end.
An ideal place to walk or cycle around the lake on a well made pathway which winds through dense foliage in certain areas. There are hiking trails which take you up the hill amongst the beautiful trees.
Dogs on leash are allowed inside the park and porta toilets are seen near the boating area."
Subir Das
"Amazing place to unwind amidst Nature. I don't know how big is this place, but can say this is the largest park I've ever been to for a stroll. The plush lawns and its flowing terrain with the added beauty of a large waterbody fed by a gurgling stream... all amazing. The walk trails along the stream, the toy train tracks, the various venues for picnics and kids play, all make this place a great attraction and fun for people of all ages. I am sure to come here often without fail whenever I happen to be in Bay Area."
Chandrasekar Rajaram
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vasona Lake County Park is located at 333 Blossom Hill Road in Los Gatos, California. It's easily accessible by car, with major roads leading directly to the park entrance.
While direct public transport options might be limited, you can check local Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) routes that serve the Los Gatos area. From there, a short taxi or rideshare might be necessary.
From Highway 17, take the Lark Avenue exit and head east. Turn right onto Blossom Hill Road, and the park entrance will be on your left.
Yes, there are numerous parking lots throughout the park. However, they can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.
Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours and on weekends. Be prepared for potential delays, particularly on Blossom Hill Road leading to the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a vehicle entry fee, typically around $6 per car. This fee grants access to the park for the day.
While some larger picnic areas might be reservable, many are first-come, first-served. On busy spring weekends, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Ride prices for the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and the carousel are generally affordable. It's best to check the Los Gatos Recreation Department for current pricing and operating hours. +1
Park hours typically vary by season, but it's generally open from sunrise to sunset. Specific attraction hours, like the train, may differ.
Information on online ticket purchases for the train or carousel is not widely available. It's usually best to purchase them on-site.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, jogging, cycling on multi-use trails, fishing, boating (kayaking, paddle boating), picnicking, and visiting the playgrounds, carousel, and miniature train.
Absolutely! The park features playgrounds, a carousel, and the popular Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad, making it a fantastic destination for families with young children. +1
Yes, dogs are welcome in the park as long as they are kept on a leash. It's a great place for a walk with your furry friend.
The park has numerous picnic areas with tables and grills scattered throughout, especially near the lawns and lake. Arrive early on weekends to claim a prime spot.
Yes, fishing is permitted in designated areas around Vasona Lake. Remember to check local regulations and obtain any necessary licenses.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting for photos. Fall also provides stunning foliage for scenic shots.
The lake and surrounding landscape provide picturesque backdrops for sunset photos. Find a spot near the water's edge for the best views.
Expect a mix of lake views, lush green lawns, mature trees (especially vibrant in fall), water birds, and charming park features like the train.
Yes, the park is home to various water birds, including ducks and geese, which can make for interesting wildlife photography subjects. +1
Don't miss capturing the steam train in action, the reflections on the lake, and the vibrant colors of the park during autumn.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With multiple playgrounds and ample open space for running around, children can burn off energy to their heart's content. 🐶 Dog Owners
It's a fantastic place for a leisurely walk or a more energetic romp, providing a scenic and safe environment for your pets. Remember to always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. 🚶♀️ Active Individuals & Nature Lovers
You can also enjoy fishing or kayaking on the Vasona Reservoir, taking advantage of the water's tranquility. The park's diverse terrain and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a refreshing outdoor escape. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Family Fun at Vasona Park
Complementing the train is a charming carousel, adding another layer of classic amusement. The park boasts multiple playgrounds, ensuring that younger visitors have plenty of space to run, climb, and explore. Beyond the rides, the park's expansive lawns and picnic areas are perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a meal together. With grills available, it's an ideal spot for a barbecue. The Vasona Reservoir offers a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls, and the presence of water birds adds an element of nature observation for curious little ones.
The park's accessibility features, including an ADA-compliant boat dock, also make it more inclusive for families with diverse needs. Outdoor Recreation and Activities
The Vasona Reservoir itself is a hub for water activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing from various points around the lake, and boating options include rentals for kayaks and paddle boats. The recent addition of an ADA-accessible boat dock further enhances the park's inclusivity for water sports enthusiasts. The park's natural setting also makes it a popular spot for picnics and simply enjoying the outdoors. With numerous picnic tables and open grassy areas, it's easy to find a comfortable spot to relax.
For dog lovers, Vasona is a great destination as dogs on leash are welcome, allowing them to join in on the outdoor fun. The park's diverse landscape, from open lawns to shaded trails, offers a refreshing escape into nature for all visitors.Seasonal Charm: Fall and Holidays
+1 Visitors often highlight the park's appeal during this time for its pleasant weather and vibrant scenery. During the winter holidays, Vasona Park becomes a magical destination with the Fantasy of Lights event. This popular drive-through light show transforms the park into a dazzling display of festive illuminations, drawing crowds eager to experience the holiday spirit.
+1 While the light show is a significant draw, it also means increased traffic and crowds during the event period, so planning ahead is essential if you intend to visit during this time. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit