Coe Ranch Campground
00 review9000 East Dunne Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Coe Ranch Campground
$5.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Drive-in campsites are $20 per night, which includes 1 vehicle. Additional Vehicle Fee is $8 per night. Senior Rate is $2 less per night. Group campsites (e.g., Manzanita Point Hike-In) are $75 per night, covering up to 5 vehicles and allowing limited vehicle access under conditions. Backpacking is $5 per person per night, plus parking fees of $8 per vehicle per night ($6 at Hunting Hollow Entrance).
About this campground
Perched dramatically atop a ridge at 2,600 feet, Coe Ranch Campground invites adventurers to wake up to breathtaking panoramas of rolling ridges, deep canyons, and the sprawling southern Santa Clara Valley below. This intimate mountaintop retreat features 20 thoughtfully positioned drive-in campsites, each furnished with picnic tables and campfire pits where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies. Choose between primitive sites with parking adjacent to dedicated tent pads or traditional spots perfect for your camping setup. While the nearby Visitor Center provides modern flush toilets for your convenience, the absence of showers encourages a true back-to-nature experience that reconnects you with the wilderness.
Coe Ranch Campground is primarily a drive-in facility with primitive sites suitable for tents and vehicles. Group camping is available at designated hike-in sites.
Historical SignificanceThis land tells stories both ancient and evolving. Today, Coe Ranch Campground stands as a testament to collaborative stewardship, with park management working hand-in-hand with the Tamien Nation to implement traditional prescribed burns and ecological projects. This meaningful partnership honors indigenous knowledge while protecting the landscape for future generations, creating a living classroom where cultural heritage and environmental preservation unite.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit to capture nature's perfect moods: spring arrives with gentle breezes and wildflower-scented air, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues under crisp, clear skies. Summer transforms the mountaintop into a sun-drenched escape where days soar above 90°F before cooling to refreshing 50-degree evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. Winter brings its own drama as Pacific storms sweep through, dropping temperatures to the 50s by day and crisp 30s at night. During these wet months, seasonal creeks come alive with rushing water, creating a dynamic landscape that demands respect and careful navigation.
ElevationAt 2,600 feet above sea level, Coe Ranch Campground offers a natural escape to cooler mountain air and commanding views that stretch for miles. This elevated perch provides relief from valley heat while positioning campers perfectly to witness spectacular sunrises painting distant peaks and fog-filled valleys below in shades of gold and rose.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within the dramatic Diablo Mountain Range, the campground immerses visitors in a landscape where towering Ponderosa Pines mingle with sprawling Oak Woodlands across rugged, undulating terrain. From February through May, nature puts on its finest show as vibrant wildflowers carpet the hillsides in brilliant splashes of orange poppies, purple lupines, and golden mustard. This ever-changing canvas of colors, textures, and mountain vistas creates an outdoor gallery that transforms with each passing season.
Geological RegionThe Diablo Mountain Range serves as your dramatic backdrop, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of striking contrasts. These rugged mountains tell a story written in stone, featuring scenic ridges that ripple toward the horizon and deep valleys carved by time, creating a terrain that challenges hikers and rewards them with discoveries around every bend.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne ADA accessible campsite (Site 003) is available and can be reserved for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are generally described as primitive and vary in size. Limited tent space is noted due to the campground’s location on a narrow, steep ridge.
Sites PrivacySites are located on an open ridge at 2,600 feet, offering scenic views but limited privacy due to lack of surrounding vegetation.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect sites based on proximity to potable water and views. Sites 11 and 13 are highly recommended.
Best CampsitesSites 11 and 13 are noted as the best for their views and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is allowed until 12 PM the following day of reservation.
Check-out
Check-out times are not explicitly mentioned, but campers must vacate based on reservation end date.
Stay Limit
Reservations may be made for multiple nights, but arrival after 12 PM the following day requires notification to the park office.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per campsite.
Groups
Group sites such as Manzanita Point accommodate between 9 to 50 backpackers depending on the site. Poverty Flat supports 9 to 25 people. Access requires hiking, and seasonal water sources may dry up by late summer.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are distributed along a steep ridge. Tent-only and primitive sites are available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, though some entrances (e.g., Dowdy Ranch) close seasonally.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia at www.reservecalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites not reserved are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Saturdays and holiday weekends tend to fill up quickly.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled as per guidelines on ReserveCalifornia. Failing to notify late arrivals may result in forfeiture of your campsite.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to extensive hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The park features over 250 miles of hiking trails ranging from leisurely loops to strenuous backpacking routes with elevation gains in the thousands of feet.Fishing
Fishing is available in park lakes and ponds, with species including largemouth bass, green sunfish, crappie, bluegill, and rainbow trout. Access requires significant hiking over rugged terrain.Swimming
Swimming is possible in park ponds and lakes such as China Hole and Coit Lake, but requires hiking or biking trips ranging from 4 to 25 miles roundtrip.Biking
Over 200 miles of rugged roads and trails are open to mountain biking, including moderately difficult options near the Coe Ranch Entrance.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife includes mountain lions, bobcats, black-tailed deer, tule elk, and gray foxes. Visitors are advised to store food securely.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive exhibits and seasonal programs are available at the Visitor Center.Winter Activities
Backcountry trails may support winter activities such as hiking, but seasonal creeks can overflow.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood and charcoal fires are permitted in metal rings provided at the campground. Fire bans may be imposed during wildfire season.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsMountain Lions, Bobcats, and other wildlife inhabit the area, requiring secure food storage. Rugged terrain and seasonal creek flooding can pose risks.
Active alertsPrescribed burns from December 9-11, 2024, may temporarily close selected trails. Check with staff for updates.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.8 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 services can be reached by dialing 9-1-1. There is variable cellphone reception, but a pay phone is available outside the Coe Ranch Entrance Visitor Center.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring is particularly busy, as are holiday weekends.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available. Recycling options are not specified.
Proximity to water featuresSeasonal ponds and creeks are accessible by hiking or mountain biking, with destinations like Frog Lake and China Hole being popular.
Common complaintsCampground sites are located on steep ridges, limiting tent space. Parking is restricted to one vehicle per campsite, with overflow parking available near the Visitor Center.
HostPark staff and volunteers are available at the Visitor Center for assistance.
Campground Map
9000 East Dunne Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Driving directionsFrom Highway 101 in Morgan Hill (1/2 hour south of San Jose), take the East Dunne Avenue exit and go east past Anderson Lake to the end of the county road to the park headquarters. The road to the park beyond Anderson Lake is 10 miles of narrow winding road. The trip will take about 30 minutes.
The road to Coe Ranch Campground is narrow and winding, extending for 10 miles past Anderson Lake. Campers should be prepared for a 30-minute drive with challenging terrain.Nearby places
Morgan Hill (13 miles, approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies can be purchased at the Visitor Center. Additional supplies may be obtained in nearby Morgan Hill, 13 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Coe Ranch Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews praise the scenic views, challenging trails, and quiet atmosphere but note limited amenities and steep terrain.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
"Amazing views from the ridge," "Great hiking trails," "Quiet and peaceful environment."
Common Concerns
"No showers available," "Steep terrain may be difficult for beginners," "Limited privacy due to open ridge setting."
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early during busy spring weekends, carry plenty of water, and reserve popular sites like 11 and 13.
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are lauded for temperate weather and abundant wildflowers, while summer is hot and winter wet with dangerous creek crossings.
Camper Quotes
"Perfect for the adventurous camper—be prepared for rugged terrain!" "Site 11 has the best views of the valley." "No showers, but flush toilets at the Visitor Center are a nice touch."
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 11 and 13 are noted as the best for views and overall experience.
Accessibility Features
Site 003 is praised for being ADA accessible and conveniently located.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must be leashed and kept with owners at night. Dogs are restricted to specific areas and not allowed in backcountry zones.
Last updated August 10, 2025