A comprehensive guide to parks, trails, and natural spaces for the discerning outdoor enthusiast.
If you're new to Central California and crave authentic outdoor experiences without the crowds, you’ll want to explore San Benito County—one of the Golden State's best-kept secrets. Nestled between the bustling Bay Area and the tourist magnets of Monterey and Santa Cruz, this remarkable county offers some of the most pristine and diverse natural landscapes you'll find anywhere in California. San Benito County strikes that perfect balance of adventure and tranquility. Here, you can hike through ancient oak woodlands in the morning, explore otherworldly rock formations by afternoon, and still make it home for dinner at places like Twin Oaks Hollister, where modern living meets natural surroundings.
The county's 1,389 square miles encompass everything from rolling golden hills to dramatic peaks, rare ecosystems to working ranchlands—yet it’s surprisingly close to the Bay Area and Silicon Valley. Whether you’re a longtime local or planning your move to a community like Twin Oaks Hollister, you’ll find an outdoor experience that matches your mood and skill level.
The Crown Jewel: Pinnacles National Park.
Pinnacles National Park isn't just San Benito County's most famous natural attraction—it's one of America's most unique national parks. This geological wonderland was born from ancient volcanic activity, creating a landscape of towering spires, hidden caves, and colorful rock formations that seem almost otherworldly. Visitors from all over—and new residents of Twin Oaks Hollister—find that Pinnacles is a place worth returning to again and again, thanks to its unique terrain, wildlife viewing, and accessible trails.
The park offers hiking experiences for every level. If you're seeking a moderate adventure, the Bear Gulch Cave Trail provides an unforgettable journey through talus caves formed by massive boulders—bring a flashlight and prepare to do some scrambling. For a more leisurely pace, the Moses Spring Trail offers stunning wildflower displays in spring while remaining accessible to most fitness levels.
Serious hikers will want to tackle the High Peaks Trail, a challenging route that rewards your effort with panoramic views stretching from the Salinas Valley to the distant Sierra Nevada on clear days. The rock formations here are a climber's paradise too, drawing enthusiasts from around the world to test their skills on the park's unique volcanic rock.
What makes Pinnacles particularly special is its role as a California condor recovery site. Visitors often spot the magnificent birds, with wingspans reaching nearly 10 feet, as they soar above the peaks. The park's diverse habitats also support mountain lions, bobcats, and an incredible array of bird species.
State Parks: Hidden Gems Worth Discovering
Fremont Peak State Park
Perched at 3,169 feet, Fremont Peak State Park offers some of the most spectacular views in Central California. Named for explorer John C. Frémont, who planted the American flag here in 1846, this park combines rich history with outstanding natural beauty.
The summit trail is relatively short but steep, making it perfect for those who want a substantial reward without committing to an all-day adventure. On clear days, the 360-degree views encompass Monterey Bay, the Santa Lucia Mountains, and much of the Central Valley. The park is also renowned among astronomy enthusiasts—the Fremont Peak Observatory Association holds regular star parties that take advantage of the site's exceptional dark skies. It’s the kind of local treasure that makes communities like Twin Oaks Hollister especially appealing to nature lovers and stargazers alike.
The park's oak woodlands and chaparral communities provide habitat for deer, wild turkeys, and many bird species. Spring brings vibrant wildflower displays, while autumn offers crisp hiking weather and stunning golden hour photography opportunities.
San Juan Bautista State Historic Park
While primarily focused on California's Spanish colonial and Mexican periods, this state park offers more than its fascinating historical buildings and the Mission, which dates to 1792. This historic setting is just a short drive from Twin Oaks Hollister, making it an ideal weekend outing for families, history buffs, or anyone seeking a peaceful stroll through early California heritage. The surrounding landscapes provide gentle walking trails through native grasslands and oak groves, perfect for contemplative morning strolls or evening reflection.
The well-preserved town of San Juan Bautista provides another opportunity for walking tours along streets lined with restaurants, tasting rooms, and antique stores.
The park's interpretive trails help visitors understand the natural systems that supported the indigenous Mutsun people for thousands of years before European arrival. These paths wind through restored native plant gardens and offer insights into sustainable land management practices that preceded modern conservation efforts.
San Juan Bautista De Anza Trail
Enjoy bucolic views of cattle grazing on this scenic trail through rolling hills and oaks. Its proximity to Twin Oaks Hollister makes it a convenient and rewarding option for daily walks or weekend workouts. This designated recreational section of the San Juan Bautista De Anza Historic Trail makes for a great workout at about 5 miles, out and back. You’ll probably encounter runners, hikers, and birders, and in the springtime, you can enjoy abundant wildflowers. The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail is part of an ambitious project by the National Park Service to create a non-motorized trail covering over 1200 miles and crossing the homelands of 70+ Tribal communities. It follows the historic route of the 1775-76 Spanish colonizing expedition from Sonora, Mexico, to San Francisco, California.
Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Mudstone Ranch
Don’t let the name fool you. While Mudstone Ranch is officially part of the popular Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area, it’s an 850-acre reserve where no motorized vehicles are allowed. Instead, you’ll find cattle grazing as well as horseback riders and mountain bikers enjoying 13 miles of trails through rolling oak savannah. Living in Twin Oaks Hollister means having these serene trails right in your backyard—perfect for evening rides or weekend family hikes
Bird Creek Trail
This 2.1-mile out-and-back trail wends its way along a seasonal creek in an oak-forested canyon next to the Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area. The shaded paths and diverse ecosystem are just a quick trip from Twin Oaks Hollister, offering a quiet retreat close to home. The riparian environment is great for wildlife viewing, attracting birds, amphibians, and mammals. Dogs are welcome on leash.
County Parks and Regional Treasures
Bolado Park
From Twin Oaks Hollister, it’s a quick drive to this beloved regional landmark—a reminder of San Benito County’s vibrant blend of agriculture and nature. This expansive county facility serves as more than just a recreational area—Bolado Park is a gateway to understanding San Benito County's agricultural heritage and natural diversity. Best known as the site of the San Benito County Fair, the park's open spaces provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, particularly during migration seasons when the area serves as a crucial stopover for a wide variety of species.
The park's location in the Tres Pinos Creek watershed makes it an excellent base for exploring the county's riparian ecosystems. These creek-side environments support wildlife that relies on year-round water sources, creating some of the region's best birding and wildlife viewing opportunities.
San Benito County Historical Park
The Historical Village is a San Benito treasure and a fascinating place for a walk among a collection of buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries, which have been preserved in the park. Operated by the San Benito Historical Society, the Historical Village is an ideal spot for a picnic. Its trails and picnic spots are a favorite for residents of Twin Oaks Hollister, offering a peaceful place to unwind and reflect on the area’s unique history.
Beyond its historical significance, this park offers access to beautiful oak woodland trails and seasonal creek systems. The grounds provide a perfect introduction to the county's natural communities, with interpretive opportunities that connect the region's natural and cultural heritage.
St. Francis Retreat Center
Just a short distance from Twin Oaks Hollister, this retreat is ideal for day trips that rejuvenate both body and mind. St. Francis Retreat is one of the area’s hidden gems, welcoming day visitors to its peaceful 73 acres of varied wooded mountainside terrain. Views include the patchwork quilt of the San Juan Bautista Valley’s farmlands and the Diablo Mountain Range in the distance.
Hikers and walkers will find two miles of dirt roads and maintained paths through the oak and buckeye forest native to this part of the Gabilan mountain range. Some areas support ferns and spring flowers, among oaks draped in air moss (also known as Spanish Moss). There’s also a large meadow where deer and turkeys are frequently spotted. Some trails can be challenging, and maps are available near the Gift Shop.
Native flora are the star at the retreat’s California Native Plant Courtyard, designed by John Greenlee, one of today’s premier native California landscape designers. It features multiple bunch grasses, flowering plants including yarrow and salvia, and even the native grape stock that saved French vineyards from a devastating blight in the mid-1800s.
The Diablo Range: Wilderness at Your Doorstep
The Diablo Range dominates the eastern portion of San Benito County, offering some of California's most pristine and challenging wilderness experiences. These mountains, part of the larger Coast Range system, provide habitat for an incredible diversity of wildlife and plant communities.
Henry W. Coe State Park (San Benito Wilderness)
Adventure seekers from Twin Oaks Hollister often find this rugged terrain perfect for weekend backpacking trips or immersive hikes. While headquartered in Santa Clara County, a significant portion of Henry Coe State Park extends into San Benito County, offering access to some of the most remote and beautiful wilderness in Central California. This is backpacking country—rugged, demanding, and spectacular for those willing to venture beyond the trailhead.
The park's San Benito portion includes pristine watersheds, ancient oak groves, and grasslands that stretch to the horizon. Wildlife viewing opportunities here are exceptional, with regular sightings of deer, wild pigs, golden eagles, and occasionally mountain lions and bobcats.
For day hikers, the park offers excellent opportunities, but be prepared for challenging terrain and potentially extreme weather conditions. This is wilderness hiking in the truest sense—bring plenty of water, inform others of your plans, and respect the environment's demands.
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
Though not pristine wilderness, the sprawling San Luis Reservoir Recreational Area, adjacent to San Benito County and located near historic Pacheco Pass, offers a diverse range of outdoor activities centered around its three scenic lakes. San Luis Reservoir itself has a capacity of two million acre-feet. It stores water for use in the San Joaquin Valley and southern California. Outdoor enthusiasts will find boating, board sailing, fishing, camping, and picnicking. Don’t be surprised if you run across one of the resident herds of magnificent tule elk. In the springtime, the surrounding hills are blanketed with bright orange California poppies. Families from Twin Oaks Hollister often make the short drive out for boating, picnics, or to catch a glimpse of the tule elk herds that call the area home.
Open Space and Land Conservancy Properties
San Benito County benefits from the work of several land conservation organizations that have preserved critical habitats and scenic landscapes for public enjoyment. These protected landscapes are part of what makes life at Twin Oaks Hollister so uniquely rewarding—easy access to stunning, preserved lands without having to travel far.
Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority Lands
While primarily focused on Santa Clara County, the Open Space Authority manages several properties that extend into San Benito County or provide access to cross-county trail systems. These preserves often offer excellent hiking opportunities with less crowding than more famous destinations.
Hikes for all Seasons
From spring wildflowers to autumn golden hour hikes, San Benito County’s outdoor calendar is always full, and living at Twin Oaks Hollister puts you right in the heart of it all. San Benito County's Mediterranean climate creates distinct seasons that impact outdoor experiences. Spring (March through May) is arguably the finest time for hiking, with moderate temperatures, stunning wildflower displays, and flowing creeks. The golden poppies, lupines, and other native flowers create carpets of color.
Summer brings hot, dry conditions perfect for early morning or evening activities. Many experienced local hikers start their adventures at dawn, completing longer hikes before the day's heat becomes uncomfortable. This is also excellent weather for camping and stargazing.
Autumn offers some of the year's most comfortable hiking weather, with warm days and cool evenings. The golden grasses that give California its nickname create stunning photographic opportunities, and wildlife activity increases as animals prepare for winter.
Winter hiking can be delightful on clear days, though higher elevations may receive snow. Rain brings renewed life to the landscape, and winter storms create dramatic skies that enhance the region's natural beauty.
Wildlife and Natural Communities
San Benito County's location at the intersection of several major ecological regions creates remarkable biodiversity. The county encompasses valley grasslands, oak woodlands, chaparral communities, riparian forests, and high-elevation mixed evergreen forests.
This diversity supports an impressive array of wildlife. Beyond the famous California condors at Pinnacles, the county hosts golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and numerous other raptors. Mammal species range from tiny shrews to mountain lions, with healthy populations of deer, wild turkeys, and smaller species throughout most areas.
The county's streams and seasonal wetlands support amphibians and reptiles, including several species of special conservation concern.
Practical Considerations for New Residents
Living in San Benito County means embracing a more rural lifestyle while maintaining access to world-class outdoor recreation. The county's towns—Hollister, San Juan Bautista, and smaller communities—provide necessary services while preserving small-town character.
Most outdoor adventures require some driving, as these destinations are spread across the county's substantial area. However, this distribution means you'll rarely encounter the crowds that plague more famous California hot spots. On many weekdays, you may even have entire trail systems to yourself.
The county's location provides excellent access to other renowned outdoor areas. Monterey Bay's coastline lies less than an hour west, while the Sierra Nevada and its world-class hiking and climbing opportunities are accessible for weekend adventures.
The San Benito Bonus: Easy Access to the Monterey Bay Area
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the myriad recreational opportunities of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, which are just 30 minutes’ drive from central San Benito County.
As close as Moss Landing Harbor, you’ll find kayaking, whalewatching and world-renowned birdwatching at Elkhorn Slough. There’s also long sandy strands for extended beach walks.
A bit further south in Carmel, locals can enjoy spectacular hikes at parks like Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which has been called “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world”, as well as magnificent Carmel River Beach State Park.
The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is a scenic 18-mile paved pathway that winds along California's stunning central coast, connecting the cities of Castroville, Marina, Seaside, Monterey, and Pacific Grove. Originally built on former railroad corridors, this multi-use trail offers breathtaking ocean views, access to pristine beaches, and glimpses of diverse marine wildlife including sea otters, harbor seals, and migrating whales.
Popular with cyclists, joggers, walkers, and families, the trail passes through iconic locations such as Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Asilomar State Beach, while providing convenient access to restaurants, shops, and coastal parks. The flat, well-maintained surface makes it accessible to users of all fitness levels, and its strategic placement along the shoreline ensures that visitors can enjoy the dramatic beauty of Monterey Bay's rugged coastline, sandy dunes, and cypress-dotted bluffs throughout their journey.
Conservation and Stewardship Opportunities
Moving to San Benito County offers numerous opportunities to become involved in conservation and outdoor education efforts. Organizations like the Pinnacles Partnership, local land trusts, and volunteer groups working with various parks always welcome knowledgeable, committed individuals.
These organizations offer everything from trail maintenance and habitat restoration to educational program leadership and wildlife monitoring.
Making the Most of Your Outdoor Life Here
Whether you're drawn by world-class birding at Pinnacles National Park, the solitude of the Diablo Range wilderness, or simply the promise of morning walks through ancient oak groves, San Benito County offers outdoor experiences that rival anything in California. The difference here is that you'll often have these remarkable places largely to yourself, creating the kind of personal connection with nature that's increasingly rare in our crowded world.
For the outdoor enthusiast considering a move to Central California, San Benito County represents something precious: authentic natural experiences in landscapes that still feel wild and uncompromised. It's California as it was meant to be—beautiful, diverse, and endlessly inspiring.