Manzanita Point Hike-in Group Campground
01 review9000 E. Dunne Ave., Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Manzanita Point Hike-in Group Campground
$5.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$5.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp is $75 per night for up to 50 people. Backpacking permits are $5 per person per night, with an additional vehicle fee of $8 per night.
About this campground
Perched high above the valley floor, Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp offers an authentic wilderness experience for adventurous souls. This collection of 11 secluded group sites rewards those willing to trek beyond the trailhead with the kind of solitude that's increasingly rare in California. Each thoughtfully placed site comes equipped with essential comforts - a sturdy picnic table for gathering, a metal fire ring for evening storytelling (when fire season permits), and convenient access to vault toilets. It's primitive camping at its finest, where the journey to reach your site becomes part of the adventure.
Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Campground is a primitive group camping site designed to accommodate groups of nine or more people. It provides a backpacking-style camping experience with minimal facilities and close interaction with nature.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds stories stretching back millennia, and today's park management honors that legacy through a meaningful partnership with the Tamien Nation. Together, they're breathing new life into ancient practices, using prescribed burns to restore the ecological balance that once flourished here. It's a living example of how traditional knowledge and modern conservation can work hand-in-hand to heal the land.
Weather and SeasonsThe seasons paint dramatically different portraits at Manzanita Point. Summer arrives with intensity, pushing temperatures above 90°F and turning the landscape golden-brown under endless blue skies. Winter brings welcome relief with crisp, cool days hovering between 30-50°F - perfect for ambitious hikers. But it's the magical window from February through May when nature puts on its most spectacular show, carpeting the hillsides in a riot of wildflowers. Spring and fall offer the sweet spot for camping, with temperate conditions that make both hiking and stargazing equally enjoyable.
ElevationAt 2,600 feet, Manzanita Point commands its ridge like a natural watchtower, offering sweeping vistas that make every uphill step worthwhile. The journey to reach these heights isn't for the faint of heart - the trail demands respect with its rugged climbs and rocky switchbacks. But those who answer the mountain's challenge are rewarded with panoramic views that stretch to the horizon, where golden hills meet azure sky in a distinctly Californian embrace.
Natural Features and SceneryThis untamed landscape bursts with life in ways that surprise even seasoned hikers. Waves of blue lupine cascade down hillsides while California poppies paint patches of pure gold across meadows. As spring progresses, the floral parade continues with delicate gold fields giving way to elegant larkspur and showy mariposa lilies. The rugged terrain supports an impressive cast of wildlife - from elusive mountain lions and clever bobcats to graceful deer and swift foxes. Every visit offers the possibility of witnessing nature's daily dramas unfold across this diverse ecosystem.
Geological RegionDeep in the heart of the Diablo Mountain Range, this campground serves as your gateway to one of California's last great wildernesses. The park's staggering 87,000 acres encompass a landscape largely unchanged by human hands, where rugged ridges and rolling hills create an endless tapestry of peaks and valleys. These ancient mountains, sculpted by millions of years of geological forces, offer a raw, authentic California experience that feels worlds away from the bustling Bay Area, despite being surprisingly close.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecial arrangements can be made with park staff for access to the site under unique needs. Please contact the park at (408) 779-2728 for assistance.
Sites SizeSites are large enough to accommodate group camping setups for at least nine people.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are relatively secluded, offering privacy for group campers.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring sufficient water; Sites close to vault toilets may be preferred for convenience.
Best CampsitesRanking not available—group campsites cater to preferences based on group size and location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
During business hours at park (latest 1 hour before sunset for vehicle access).
Check-out
- During business hours
- exact time unclear.
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Manzanita Point accommodates up to 50 people per group camp.
Groups
Each site accommodates groups of at least nine people, with space for tents and equipment. Up to two equipment vehicles may be allowed under favorable conditions.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout11 group sites, hike-in access (2-3 miles from Coe Ranch Entrance).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; specific seasonal closures only applicable for Dowdy Entrance.
Reservation PlatformsReserveCalifornia website or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated for hike-in group site; backpacking permits available first-come-first-serve.
Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly mentioned.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Campground reflect the rugged and natural environment of Henry W. Coe State Park. Popular options include hiking and wildlife viewing, though campers will need to trek to specific activity locations. Seasonal wildflower blooms and expansive views make hiking particularly appealing during spring. The campground’s location within a larger wilderness ensures opportunities for solitude and outdoor immersion.
Hiking
Manzanita Point offers access to trails within Henry W. Coe State Park, ranging from easy loops to strenuous treks with significant elevation changes. Seasonal wildflowers enhance the hiking experience, particularly in spring.Biking
The campground can be accessed via mountain bike, and trails near Manzanita Point provide opportunities for moderately difficult rides.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the park includes mountain lions, bobcats, black-tailed deer, tule elk, gray foxes, and various bird species. Viewing opportunities are best along trails and open areas.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited as the rugged terrain and potentially wet conditions may pose accessibility challenges. Seasonal creek flows and cold temperatures could impact usability.Water Sports
Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Campground does not offer direct access to water sports activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed in metal rings only when authorized; No wood gathering; Gas stoves permitted.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsRugged terrain; Summer dehydration risks; Dangerous winter creek overflow; Wildlife presence.
Active alertsPrescribed burn events (December 9-11); Temporary closures due to burns.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency - 9-1-1 (variable cellphone reception); Pay phone available at Coe Ranch Entrance Visitor Center. Emergency services not explicitly detailed for hospitals or police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring, especially February through May given blooming wildflowers, and temperate fall months.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned at Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Campground. Campers should be prepared to pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresNo potable water onsite; Nearby creeks require purification, may dry up in summer.
Common complaintsNarrow, winding roads; Seasonal water shortages; Limited potable water onsite.
HostPark staff available for questions; volunteer availability during events.
Campground Map
9000 E. Dunne Ave., Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Driving directionsFrom Highway 101 in Morgan Hill (1/2 hour south of San Jose), take East Dunne Avenue exit and drive east past Anderson Lake to the end of the county road to the park headquarters. The road beyond Anderson Lake is narrow, winding, stretches for 10 miles, and takes approximately 30 minutes.
The road is narrow, winding, and may present challenges for large vehicles or trailers. Seasonal closures can impact Dowdy Ranch Entrance but do not affect Coe Ranch Entrance.Nearby places
Morgan Hill, CA (13 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
San Jose, CA (about 0.5 hours south of Morgan Hill)
Nearby supplies
Visitor Center may supply firewood
nearby stores unavailable. Morgan Hill has an Aquatics Center and other amenities but details are unclear.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Manzanita Point Hike-in Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty and solitude of the site, particularly praising the hike from the park office to Manzanita Point. The lack of potable water and the primitive nature of the campground are noted as challenges but are also seen as part of the authentic outdoor experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive comments from users include the scenic hike to the campground, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and the secluded setting suited for group camping.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints focus on the lack of potable water and the primitive facilities. Some users also note challenges with hiking in equipment due to the rugged terrain.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water and supplies due to the lack of potable water. Planning for varying trail conditions, especially during wetter seasons, is advised.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring is highlighted as the best time to visit due to mild temperatures and wildflower blooms, while summer challenges include high temperatures and dry conditions. Winter may pose accessibility...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Hike from park office to Manzanita Point Group campsite is beautiful, some of that is kind of fire road." - Review by Prakash Joshi (2020-02-15)
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite reviews or numbers are mentioned for Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Campground.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are not explicitly noted but special arrangements for unique needs can be made with park staff.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are not allowed at Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Campground, which is noted in both official sources and user reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025