Parks & Recreation

The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail goes through San Juan Bautista. The trail route follows an unpaved 8 mile section of trail through the northern Gabilan Range starting near downtown San Juan along the Alameda south of Highway 156 at the intersection with San Juan Canyon Road, Salinas Road, and Mission Vineyard Road. Park near the trailhead, and walk this scenic mountain trail to explore local geology, wildlife, and wildflowers in the spring.

This park features expansive views of Monterey Bay, from its hiking trails in the grasslands of the higher peaks of the Gavilan Range. Other views include the San Benito Valley, Salinas Valley, and the Santa Lucia Mountains east of Big Sur. There are camping and picnic facilities in the park. The park also features an astronomical observatory with a 30-inch telescope, which is open for public programs on selected evenings.

The geology around San Juan Bautista is some of the most spectacular in North America. This geology website provides field trips (hiking, biking, and driving) to destinations throughout the region around San Juan Bautista, Hollister, and Gilroy. See where the San Andreas, Calaveras, and other regional faults, as well as an abundance of rocks, landscape features, and wildlife habitats, can be viewed.

Hollister Hills offers recreation for motorcyclists, 4-wheelers, picnickers, and campers in the Gabilan Mountains just a 15 minute drive from San Juan Bautista. Park elevations range from 660 feet to 2,425 feet. The Upper Ranch area is800-acres, which has about 24 miles of trails, is used for 4-wheel drive recreation and for 4-wheel drive and motorcycle special events.

From National Monument to National Park less than an hour drive away. Spend the day hiking the many trails, interacting with the rangers, observing wildlife, or rock climbing. The Pinnacles are known for their Condor preservation program, where visitors can see the giant Condor birds soaring with their 60” wing span, high above the park.

Available only in October. Take a guided walking tour of several local sites with ghost sightings and paranormal activities! Includes goodie bag and beverages. Hosted by and proceeds benefit the Rotary Club of San Juan Bautista.

San Juan Bautista State Historic Park offers guided walking tours Tuesday – Sundays for groups of up to 25 people with advance reservations. Tours are 1 to 1.5 hours and can be customized to meet the interests and needs of your group.

While you’re walking around town, learn some San Juan History and you’ll see the town from a whole new fascinating perspective! This is a self guided tour that can begin from anywhere.

Click on the link below to view our special self-guided tour webpage.

6 dedicated Pickleball Courts located at San Juan School. Open to public.

Soccer field located at San Juan School, on the Alameda. Restrooms available.

Covered tables, small grills, playground, grassy area, restrooms, and shade trees.

Enclosed baseball field, large grassy area, restrooms, tables/benches, and shade trees.

Located in the Rancho Vista subdivision. Playground, adult exercise equipment, and benches.

Tables/benches, large grassy area, and walking path.

Large grassy area, tables/benches, and shade trees. Restroom available when the library is open.

Tables/benches, barbecue grill, and bocce ball court.