Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp

For those in California seeking a genuine outdoor adventure, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life, Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled within the vast and rugged landscape of Henry W. Coe State Park, this unique campground provides a true wilderness immersion, perfect for groups looking to connect with nature on a deeper level. It's an opportunity to embrace the tranquility of the backcountry, enjoy stunning vistas, and create lasting memories with friends and family.

Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp isn't your typical drive-up campsite. As its name suggests, it requires a commitment to the journey, rewarding campers with a sense of accomplishment and a more secluded setting. This makes it an ideal destination for experienced backpackers, outdoor enthusiasts, and groups eager to take on a moderate challenge for a truly rewarding stay.

Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp is situated in the expansive Henry W. Coe State Park, located in Morgan Hill, California. The park itself is a significant natural preserve in the Diablo Range, offering vast tracts of undeveloped land. The address for the general area is Manzanita Point Rd, Morgan Hill, CA 95037, USA.

Access to Manzanita Point Group Camp is primarily by foot, with the campsite located approximately 2 to 3 miles from the Coe Ranch Entrance. This hike, while offering beautiful scenery that includes fire roads and natural trails, is an integral part of the experience. It provides a gradual ascent into the serene wilderness, allowing you to shed the stresses of everyday life with every step. For groups, there is limited vehicle access to transport equipment and supplies to the campsite via a gated, one-lane dirt road. However, these vehicles must remain parked at the group camp for the duration of the stay, and shuttling people or equipment is not permitted. This restriction ensures the peaceful, undisturbed nature of the campsite. It's highly recommended to call the park in advance regarding vehicle access, especially concerning road conditions after rainfall, as staff may prohibit access if conditions are unsuitable.

Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp focuses on a more primitive camping experience, encouraging self-reliance and a deep connection with the natural environment. While amenities are intentionally kept simple to preserve the wilderness feel, key services are available to ensure a comfortable and responsible stay:

• Group Campsites: The campground offers multiple hike-in group campsites, designed to accommodate groups of 9 or more people, making it perfect for scout troops, family reunions, or outdoor clubs. Each site is spacious, providing ample room for tents and activities.

• Picnic Tables: Each group campsite is equipped with at least one picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and gathering.

• Vault Toilets: Nearby vault toilets are available for campers' convenience, maintaining hygiene in the backcountry environment.

• Metal Campfire Rings: When fire conditions permit (it's crucial to check current fire restrictions as wood and charcoal campfires are frequently banned, especially in dry seasons), each site has a metal campfire ring. Campers must bring their own firewood as wood gathering is not allowed within the park.

• Limited Vehicle Access for Equipment: As mentioned, for groups of 9 or more, up to two vehicles may be permitted to drive in to transport equipment and supplies, provided road conditions allow. These vehicles must stay at the campsite for the duration of the stay.

• Nearby Water Sources (Purification Recommended): While there is no treated potable water directly at the campsites, water sources like Bass Pond and sometimes Rabbit Spring are available nearby. It is essential to purify all water before drinking. Carrying a reliable water filter or purification tablets is highly recommended.

Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp stands out for several compelling reasons, making it a highly desirable destination for California outdoor enthusiasts:

• True Wilderness Experience: Unlike crowded drive-in campgrounds, Manzanita Point offers a genuine backcountry feel. The hike-in requirement naturally filters out casual visitors, ensuring a more tranquil and pristine environment.

• Stunning Vistas and Natural Beauty: The campsites are nestled within rolling hills and oak woodlands, providing picturesque views of the surrounding wilderness. The area is particularly beautiful during wildflower season (February to May), when the landscape bursts with vibrant colors.

• Abundant Wildlife: Henry W. Coe State Park is home to diverse wildlife. Campers might spot deer, squirrels, rabbits, coyotes, bobcats, and various bird species including quail and turkeys. The "Granary trees" with their acorn woodpecker holes are a fascinating natural feature.

• Excellent for Group Adventures: With dedicated group campsites, it’s an ideal spot for educational outings, team-building retreats, or simply a memorable gathering for friends and family who enjoy active outdoor pursuits.

• Hiking and Mountain Biking Opportunities: The 2-3 mile hike to the camp is just the beginning. The Manzanita Point Road itself offers scenic routes, and the park boasts over 250 miles of trails, catering to various difficulty levels for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. You can explore further into the park's rugged terrain from your base camp.

• Peaceful Solitude: Reviewers often praise the quiet and secluded nature of Manzanita Point, making it a perfect escape for those seeking peace away from urban noise. It's common for groups to feel as if they have the entire area to themselves.

For reservations and further inquiries about Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp, please use the following contact details:

Address: Manzanita Point Rd, Morgan Hill, CA 95037, USA

Phone: (408) 779-2728

Mobile Phone: +1 408-779-2728

Reservations can typically be made through ReserveCalifornia or by calling 1-800-444-7275. It is always advisable to check current conditions, fire restrictions, and any specific requirements directly with the park before planning your trip.

For Californians, especially those in the Bay Area and surrounding regions, Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp offers an accessible yet profoundly immersive wilderness experience right in their backyard. While it requires a bit more effort than a typical car camping trip, this very aspect is its greatest strength. It provides a genuine escape into nature, fostering a sense of adventure and self-reliance that is increasingly rare in our fast-paced world.

Locals can easily plan a weekend group getaway here, enjoying the satisfaction of hiking into their campsite and being rewarded with stunning, undisturbed natural beauty. It's a fantastic opportunity to unplug, disconnect from digital distractions, and reconnect with friends, family, and the raw beauty of California's backcountry. The "primitive" nature of the camp, with its focus on basic amenities and self-sufficiency, encourages a deeper appreciation for the outdoors and strengthens bonds within groups. For those seeking a memorable and authentic camping experience without having to travel too far, Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp in Henry W. Coe State Park is an exceptional choice, offering a true taste of California's wild heart.

Manzanita Point Hike-In Group Camp

Manzanita Point Rd, Morgan Hill, CA 95037, USA