Vasona Lake County Park, a California hidden gem, is a great place for summer picnics, barbecues, and boating.
💞Recommendation:
When families and friends with children visit San Francisco's South Bay, my favorite place to take them is Vasona Lake County Park in Los Gatos. This sprawling park, centered around a reservoir, is one of the most popular regional parks in the Santa Clara County Park system. It's perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, and outings. In the summer, they rent pedal boats, rowboats, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and kayaks, making it a popular destination for both adults and children.
In addition, the Los Gatos Creek Trail, a 9.5-mile trail perfect for walking, jogging, biking, and scooting, runs through the park. YSI also has a Nature Center at the north end of the park, showcasing local California nature and history. It also houses a small zoo, open on weekends, and offers a variety of educational programs and camps. Of course, we can't forget the park's south side, which connects to Oak Meadow Park and features the fun Billy Jones Wildcat train and W.E. "Bill" Mason's vintage carousel, a favorite for children under five.
While there aren't any water activities during the winter, there's the Fantasy of Lights Festival near Christmas, a popular South Bay Christmas event since 1999. Tickets must be booked in advance.
📍Address: 333 Blossom Hill Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032
🗓️Daily Schedule: 8:00 AM to Sunset daily, with trails accessible from sunrise.
💰Average Cost: Vehicles must pay a vehicle entry fee (approximately $5–6 per vehicle); walking or cycling are free.
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