Hellyer County Park photo
ParkCalifornia, US

Hellyer County Park

Hellyer County Park is a vibrant 354-acre urban oasis nestled in San Jose, California, offering a refreshing escape from city life.

About

Hellyer County Park is a vibrant 354-acre urban oasis nestled in San Jose, California, offering a refreshing escape from city life. This expansive park is renowned for the scenic Coyote Creek meandering through its heart, providing a lush riparian habitat that supports a surprising array of wildlife and offers endless recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. It serves as a vital green lung for the community, blending natural beauty with active pursuits, making it a truly special destination in the bustling Silicon Valley.

At the core of the park's appeal is the Coyote Creek Parkway, a 15-mile paved multi-use trail perfect for cycling, walking, or running, which extends south from the park. Cottonwood Lake invites anglers with year-round fishing for catfish and bluegill, while its tranquil waters attract a variety of waterfowl such as Mallards, American Coots, Canada Geese, and Double-crested Cormorants. Families will delight in the state-of-the-art playgrounds, including a towering 30-foot structure with an enclosed slide, and a popular splash pad operational seasonally. The park's diverse plant life includes native species like coast live oak, Frémont Cottonwood, and towering coast redwoods, providing shade and habitat for creatures like the California Ground Squirrel, Western Fence Lizard, and various bird species such as the Killdeer, Black Phoebe, and Western Bluebird.

Hellyer County Park is more than just a park; it's a memorable destination where nature, recreation, and community converge. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll along the creek, an energetic bike ride, a fun day out with the family, or an opportunity to observe local wildlife in a natural setting, the park delivers. Its blend of accessible amenities, natural beauty, and vibrant community events ensures a rewarding and memorable visit for everyone, from avid birdwatchers to families looking for outdoor adventure. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

Hellyer County Park boasts a rich history, serving as a gathering place for thousands of years for the Ohlone Indians, specifically the Tamien and Matalan tribes, who were drawn to the area's temperate climate, abundant wildlife, and plant food sources along Coyote Creek. The creek itself was named "Arroyo Del Coyote" in 1776 by Juan Bautista De Anza's expedition, likely for the coyotes they encountered. The park was eventually named after George Washington Hellyer, an Anglo-Saxon settler who arrived in California in the 1850s. The land transformed from agricultural use to a site for a machine shop, rock quarry, and landfill before its current incarnation. Hellyer County Park officially opened to the public in 1966, the same year Cottonwood Lake was developed from the old rock quarry. Notably, an Olympic-size velodrome was constructed in 1962, originally intended as a training site for cyclists competing in the Pan American Games.

What to do here

Enjoy hiking, biking, or skating along the paved trails. Fish in Cottonwood Lake. Utilize the off-leash dog park. Have a picnic or BBQ in the designated areas. Kids can play on the large playground or cool off at the splash pad (April 1 - October 1). Observe diverse bird species and other wildlife around the creek and lake. Attend events at the velodrome or seasonal park festivals.

Seasonal info

The splash pad operates annually from April 1 to October 1. Summer days can be hot, making early morning visits or utilizing shaded areas and the splash pad more pleasant. Weekends can be busy, especially during events.

Accessibility

Hellyer County Park offers excellent accessibility, featuring paved trails like the Coyote Creek Parkway which is approximately 10 feet wide with a gentle grade, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The park also provides accessible restroom facilities, ADA-compliant picnic areas, and designated accessible parking spaces.

Don't miss

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The 15-mile paved Coyote Creek Parkway, Cottonwood Lake for fishing and birdwatching, the Hellyer Park Velodrome (one of Northern California's only concrete velodromes), and the modern playground with a 30-foot slide and splash pad.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Visit early on weekday mornings

This is the best time to experience fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and increased opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Bring swimsuits and towels

If visiting between April and October, the splash pad is a fantastic way for kids to cool down on warm days.

Check for library parking passes

Save on the daily vehicle entrance fee by acquiring a free parking pass from a local library.

Carry a California fishing license

If you plan on fishing in Cottonwood Lake or Coyote Creek, ensure you have a valid California fishing license.

Explore the Coyote Creek Parkway

This 15-mile paved trail is excellent for biking or a long walk, offering scenic views and chances to spot birds and other wildlife.

Look for wildlife around Cottonwood Lake: Keep an eye out for Mallards, American Coots, Canada Geese, and other aquatic birds around the lake's edges.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, there is a daily parking fee at Hellyer County Park. However, visitors can often obtain a free parking pass from a local library to avoid this charge.
Hellyer County Park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, and skating along the Coyote Creek Parkway, fishing in Cottonwood Lake, picnicking, utilizing playgrounds and a seasonal splash pad, an off-leash dog park, horseshoe pits, and a velodrome for cycling events.
Yes, Hellyer County Park is largely accessible. It features paved trails like the Coyote Creek Parkway, which has a gentle grade and is wide enough for wheelchairs and strollers, as well as accessible restrooms, ADA-compliant picnic areas, and designated accessible parking.

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