The mission of the Santa Clara County Parks & Recreation Department is to provide, protect, and preserve regional parklands for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.
Santa Clara County Parks strives to provide all visitors a place where diversity and inclusivity is valued and makes every effort to provide access to outstanding recreational opportunities, a rich cultural historical legacy, and an expansive regional trail system for all to enjoy.
Featured Items
Coyote Creek Habitat Day - FREE family fun!
Join us on Saturday, June 1 from 10am to 1pm at the Coyote Creek Visitor Center (19245 Malaguerra Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037) for a day of activities highlighting wildlife connected with Coyote Creek. Learn about the people and animals who have made their homes along this watershed both long ago and today. Learn more.
Hike The Hundred Challenge!
Are you ready for the next Santa Clara County Parks Challenge? Hike your way to 100 points in 100 days to celebrate Stevens Creek's 100 year milestone. Get your hiking boots and binoculars ready, the Hike The Hundred scavenger hunt has begun.
Earth Day Youth Art Contest
Calling all young artists pre-K to 12th grade! Celebrate Earth Day and Santa Clara County Parks by sharing your creative and original artwork. Let’s celebrate Earth Day by showing how you might save the planet by reducing the use of plastics or sharing what Earth Day means to you. Submissions accepted through May 15.
Parks Administration Office Move
Effective April 8, 2024, the Santa Clara County Parks Administration Office will be relocating from its current address at Vasona Lake County Park (298 Garden Hill Drive, Los Gatos, CA) to a brand-new location at 5965 Silver Creek Valley Road, San José, CA 95138. Learn More.
SCC Parks by the Numbers
Since the first County parkland was acquired in 1924, the Santa Clara County Parks system has grown to include 28 regional parks encompassing over 52,000 acres of land. We at Santa Clara County Parks are committed to balancing the need for public use of parks and recreational lands with preserving the natural beauty of our area, including wildlife refuges and historic sites.
29,366
2022 Volunteer Hours
342
Miles of Trails
52,000+
Acres Protected
28
Regional Parks
5,482,718
Annual Visitors
Upcoming Events
Filter Events
Saturday, May 27, 2023
Enjoy a FREE feature-length movie under the stars with family and friends. Come early to learn about the park and talk to a Ranger. Meet at the Canada De Pala Group site with a chair or blanket, flashlight and snacks. No dogs please. Questions? (408) 274-6121
18405 Mt. Hamilton Rd.
San Jose, CA 95140
United States
Wednesday, May 31, 2023
Come out and learn safety and the basics of shooting your handgun from a certified Rangemaster. Meet at the Park Office with your handgun in a locked case and 50 rounds of ammunition. We do have 9mm on site to purchase. Reservations (408)463-0652
9580 Malech Rd
San Jose, CA 95138
United States
Friday, June 2, 2023
(Currently FULL) Discover the natural and cultural history of the area on a paddle tour of the reservoir. Experienced paddlers only. No instruction or equipment is provided. Meet at launch ramp with your kayak/canoe, life jacket (PFD) and 2 glow sticks per person. $6 vehicle entrance fee and $4 vessel inspection fee collected at park. Reservations online or (408) 355-2240
11401 Stevens Canyon Rd
Cupertino, CA 95014
United States
Saturday, June 3, 2023
Join the Tree Believers Collaborative and Park Ranger staff on a beautification project to enhance and beautify this main trailhead entrance to Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear County Park.
If you are looking to get outside and connect with the outdoors right in your backyard this is the opportunity for you! Make a lasting impact on your local Santa Clara County Parks by helping maintain their natural beauty and preserving their habitat for the wildlife that depend on them.
Calaveras Trail
Gilroy, CA 95020
United States
Trail Watch volunteers are a vital part of ensuring our parks remain safe, welcoming, and accessibly to everyone in our community. Trail Watch Volunteers may choose their preferred method of patrol, including hiking, bicycling, horseback, or by motorcycle (Motorcycle Park only).
If you are interested in joining the Trail Watch Patrol team, please sign up for an upcoming Trail Watch Academy training to sign up for the one that works for your schedule. Candidates will also be required to complete a criminal history background check (Live Scan) at no cost to the volunteer, COVID vaccination certification, online sexual harassment prevention training, and an outside employment/incompatible activities form as part of their onboarding process, as well as our Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED training.
For additional information about the position, please contact the Volunteer Program Office staff at [email protected] or (408) 918-4930.
Tour the refurbished Joseph D Grant Ranch House and learn about the history of this pioneer family. Learn about Joseph Grant's role in redwood preservation and California's history. Questions (408) 274-6121
Yerba Buena Trail
San Jose, CA 95127
United States
Enjoy Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, a FREE feature-length movie under the stars with family and friends. Come early to learn about the park and talk to a Ranger. Meet at the Calero Reservoir parking lot with a chair or blanket, flashlight and snacks. No dogs, please. Questions? (408) 842-2341
23205 McKean Rd
San Jose, CA 95120
United States
Join a Park Ranger on a night hike along the North Ridge Trail at Calero County Park and let the wonder of the full moon guide you along the trail! Meet at the Rancho San Vicente parking lotg. Reservations online.
23205 McKean Rd
San Jose, CA 95120
United States
Sunday, June 4, 2023
Sunday, June 4th | 9:30 am - 10:30am
Location: Sanborn County Park
*Note: This program was previously scheduled for Stevens Creek County Park but has been moved to Sanborn County Park due to current park conditions.
Shrink down to size of salamander and explore tiny habitats with a Park Interpreter on this nature stroll around Sanborn County Park. $6 parking fee. Family friendly & best for kids ages 6+.
Space is limited. Reservations required.
Questions? Email [email protected]
16055 Sanborn Rd
Saratoga, CA 95070
United States
Join a Park Ranger led hike to discover the nighttime world in our beautiful park system. Meet at the Pueblo Group area with layers, water, fully charged flashlight, and comfortable shoes. Questions? (408)225-0225
Bernal Rd.
San Jose, CA 95120
United States