Coyote Lake Harvey Bear
Coyote Lake – Harvey Bear Ranch County Park, located east of Gilroy, California, spans 6,695 acres and features a 449-acre lake, offering a variety of recreational activities suitable for scout troops.
Activities: Boating and Fishing: Coyote Lake permits power boating, jet-skiing, waterskiing, sailing, canoeing, and kayaking from mid-April to mid-October, with operating hours from 8:00 a.m. to 30 minutes before sunset. The lake is home to species such as black bass, bluegill, black crappie, and Eurasian carp. Note that swimming is prohibited. Hiking and Biking: The park offers 35 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and equestrian use, traversing oak-studded canyons and grassy ridgelines with scenic views of southern Santa Clara Valley.
Camping Facilities: Lakeview Campground: Located 0.5 miles north of the visitor center, this campground offers 73 reservable sites for tents and RVs. Each site includes a paved slip, picnic table, BBQ/campfire pit, and food locker. Eighteen sites provide electricity and water hookups, with a nearby dump station. Amenities include three restrooms, a shower building with hot water (no charge), and multiple drinking water taps. Group Campsite: The group site accommodates up to 40 people and is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms and showers. Reservations are required.
Climate: Summer: Average temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s°F. Winter: Temperatures typically range from the mid-40s to mid-50s°F.
Fees: Camping: Fees vary based on site selection and group size. For current rates, contact the park office at (408) 842-7800. Vehicle Entrance: A vehicle entrance fee is applicable; consult the park's official website for the latest fee schedule.
Scouting Considerations: The park's diverse activities and facilities make it ideal for scout groups. The group campsite is particularly suitable for troop gatherings. Advance reservations are essential, and it's advisable to inquire about any scout-specific programs or opportunities.
Additional Information: Accessibility: The park offers accessible facilities; for details, contact the park office. Operating Hours: The park is open year-round; day-use hours are from 8:00 a.m. to sunset.
Information website: https://parks.sccgov.org/santa-clara-county-parks/coyote-lake-harvey-bear-ranch-park
Map Link (beta): https://www.google.com/maps?q=37.07814949999999,-121.5281104
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