Joseph D. Grant County Park
Vast 10,000+ acre park with rolling hills, oak trees, a lake, and abundant wildlife, perfect for hiking and camping.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers and lush greenery
Joseph D. Grant County Park
Best Time
Wildflowers and lush greenery

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast 10,000+ acre park with rolling hills, oak trees, a lake, and abundant wildlife, perfect for hiking and camping.
"A hidden gem in the Bay Area, offering breathtaking scenery and a peaceful escape into nature."
🚗 Choose Your Route Wisely
Mt. Hamilton Rd (130) is less curvy than Quimby Rd. Check conditions before you go!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
No stores for miles! Bring all your food, water, and sun protection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rolling Golden Hills
Throughout the park
Vast meadows and hillsides painted in golden hues, especially stunning in spring with wildflowers.
Bass Lake Views
Near the park entrance
A serene lake offering picturesque views, a popular spot for picnics and wildlife spotting.

Wildlife Encounters
Various trails and meadows
Keep an eye out for deer, wild pigs, and diverse bird species in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating to Grant Park
Park Essentials & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Choose Your Route Wisely
Mt. Hamilton Rd (130) is less curvy than Quimby Rd. Check conditions before you go!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
No stores for miles! Bring all your food, water, and sun protection.
🥾 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Trails can be long and exposed; good footwear is essential for enjoying the hikes.
📸 Camera Ready!
Stunning scenery and wildlife make this a photographer's paradise.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Choose Your Route Wisely
Mt. Hamilton Rd (130) is less curvy than Quimby Rd. Check conditions before you go!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
No stores for miles! Bring all your food, water, and sun protection.
🥾 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Trails can be long and exposed; good footwear is essential for enjoying the hikes.
📸 Camera Ready!
Stunning scenery and wildlife make this a photographer's paradise.
🏕️ Campsite Reservations
Book campsites in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
🚲 Mountain Biking Paradise
The park is ideal for mountain biking with its varied terrain and trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Joseph D. Grant County Park is lauded as a beautiful, peaceful, and vast natural escape, often described as a hidden gem. Visitors appreciate the diverse landscapes, wildlife sightings, and well-maintained facilities, making it ideal for hiking, biking, and camping. However, the journey to the park can be challenging due to winding roads, and amenities are scarce, requiring visitors to come well-prepared.
"it's a huge park, very beautiful and peaceful. hard to get there, so few people.
a small parking lot on 130 near the lake. free, but full. go to the ranger station. lots of parking, $6.
take 130 to get there. don't take Qwimby: very narrow, steep, and curves.
bring water, sandwiches, suntan lotion, snacks, etc. no stores for many miles.
nice lake, but no path around it. the park is best for mountain bikes."
Andreas Ramos
"Large park with multiple campsites / picnic areas of various size. Killdeer, California kingsnakes, and other animals can be spotted. Some historical structures are located here, including the house the park's namesake used to spend time in, along with a rose garden. Relatively flat area good for hikes and biking, but limited shade. Recommend you take Quimby road to get here which is less windy than the alternatives."
Alvaro Hoyos
"There is a real diversity of landscapes including meadows, hills and a lake. Lots of oak trees, some covered in mosses. The facilities were all well maintained."
David Hoffman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The best road to Joseph D. Grant County Park is a topic of discussion among visitors. While Mt. Hamilton Road (130) is often recommended for being longer but less curvy, Quimby Road is also an option. Some travelers find Quimby to be more direct but note it can be very narrow, steep, and winding. It's advisable to check current road conditions and consider your comfort level with heights and sharp turns before choosing your route.
Yes, there are parking areas available. Some reviews mention a small parking lot near the lake on 130 that can fill up quickly. For more extensive parking, visitors are directed to the ranger station.
Joseph D. Grant County Park is located east of San Jose, making it a relatively accessible escape into nature for Bay Area residents. The drive time can vary depending on traffic and the specific route taken, but it's generally considered a convenient day trip destination.
While you can drive to various points within Joseph D. Grant County Park, including picnic areas and trailheads, the park is primarily designed for exploration on foot, bicycle, or horseback. Driving is limited to designated roads and parking areas.
Information regarding RV suitability is limited, but the park does offer campsites. It's recommended to check with the park management for specific details on RV access and any size restrictions for campsites or parking areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While some sources indicate the park is free, others mention a $6 fee, particularly if parking at the ranger station. It's best to confirm current pricing with the park authorities or check their official website before your visit.
Operating hours for Joseph D. Grant County Park are not explicitly detailed in the provided information. However, as a county park, it is generally open during daylight hours. For specific times, especially for camping facilities or ranger stations, it's advisable to check the official Santa Clara County Parks website.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book camping spots in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons, weekends, or holidays. This ensures you secure a spot and avoid disappointment.
No specific entry restrictions are mentioned beyond standard park rules. However, it's always a good idea to be aware of any seasonal closures or advisories that might be in effect.
Absolutely! Joseph D. Grant County Park is a fantastic destination for day trips, offering numerous trails for hiking and biking, picnic areas, and beautiful natural scenery to enjoy.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Joseph D. Grant County Park offers a diverse range of trails suitable for various activities. You'll find options for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Trails vary in difficulty, from easy strolls to more challenging routes, with options like the Loop Trail, Bass Lake Trail, and Hotel Loop Trail being popular choices.
The park is a haven for wildlife. Visitors have reported sightings of deer, wild pigs, Killdeer, California kingsnakes, and various other animals. It's a great spot for nature observation and photography.
Yes, there is a lake, often referred to as Bass Lake, within Joseph D. Grant County Park. While it offers scenic views, there isn't a continuous path around the lake for walking.
The park features well-maintained facilities including picnic areas, restrooms, and campsites. Some historical structures, like the namesake's former residence and a rose garden, are also present.
Definitely! With its rolling hills, oak trees, lake views, and abundant wildlife, Joseph D. Grant County Park provides numerous opportunities for stunning photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food services available within Joseph D. Grant County Park. Visitors are strongly advised to bring all their own food, snacks, and drinks, as stores are located many miles away.
Yes, the park has several picnic areas, making it an excellent spot for a picnic lunch amidst nature. Remember to pack everything you need, as amenities are limited.
It's essential to pack plenty of water, sandwiches, snacks, and any other food items you might need for your visit. Given the park's size and remote location, self-sufficiency is key.
Due to its location, dining options are not immediately adjacent to the park. It's best to plan your meals before arriving or after departing from Joseph D. Grant County Park.
Campfires are typically allowed in designated areas, especially at campsites. Always check current fire restrictions and regulations with the park management before planning a campfire.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire park offers photographic potential, from the rolling golden hills and oak-dotted meadows to the serene Bass Lake. Wildlife sightings, especially wild pigs and deer, provide unique opportunities. Sunset and sunrise also cast a beautiful light over the landscape.
You have a good chance of photographing deer, wild pigs, various bird species, and reptiles like California kingsnakes. Patience and a good zoom lens can be very rewarding.
It's crucial to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. While some animals may seem accustomed to humans, they are still wild. Never feed or provoke them.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Wildlife is also often more active during these times.
While some drone footage exists of the park, it's essential to check the specific drone regulations for Santa Clara County Parks. Many parks have restrictions on drone usage to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Picnic areas are plentiful, making it easy to enjoy a family meal surrounded by nature. While there isn't a specific playground, the natural environment itself offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and imaginative play. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as services are limited within the park.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Mountain Bikers
While some trails are shared with hikers and equestrians, the sheer size of the park means there's usually ample space for everyone. The open hillsides and scenic vistas make for a beautiful cycling journey. Remember to bring your bike maintenance kit and plenty of water, as you'll be covering a lot of ground.
📸 Nature Photographers
Wildlife photography is also a major draw. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, wild pigs, and various bird species. The chance to capture these animals in their natural habitat adds a unique element to any photography outing. Remember to use a telephoto lens and maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
When planning your hike, consider the limited shade available on many of the trails. Bringing ample water, sunscreen, and a hat is crucial, especially during warmer months. The park's varied terrain means some trails can be moderately challenging, so wear appropriate footwear. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the relatively flat areas are excellent for leisurely walks or cycling.
Wildlife sightings are common, adding an extra layer of excitement to any trail exploration. Keep an eye out for deer grazing in the meadows or wild pigs foraging in the underbrush. The park's natural tranquility, punctuated by the sounds of nature, makes it a perfect escape for those looking to reconnect with the outdoors.
Camping and Picnicking
Picnicking is another popular activity, with designated areas available for visitors to enjoy meals amidst the scenic beauty. The park's diverse landscapes, from meadows to lakeside views, create a picturesque backdrop for a family outing or a relaxed lunch. Remember to pack all your food and drinks, as there are no concessions within the park.
Campfire stories under the stars are a quintessential part of the camping experience here. While specific regulations should always be checked, designated fire pits are typically available at campsites, allowing visitors to enjoy a classic outdoor tradition.
Navigating the Roads
Travelers concerned about heights or sharp turns should carefully consider their route. The drive itself is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape. It's always wise to check current road conditions, especially after periods of rain, as these roads can be affected by weather.
Once you arrive, be aware that parking can be limited in some areas, particularly near the lake. The ranger station often provides additional parking options. Planning your arrival time, especially if visiting on a weekend, can help you secure a convenient spot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit