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State Vehicular Recreation Area · CA

Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area is a popular off-highway vehicle park in California offering diverse terrain for dirt biking, off-road driving, and family-friendly recreational activities.

State Vehicular Recreation Area1,6364+ Trails

Designation

State Vehicular Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

1,636

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area is a popular off-highway vehicle park in California offering diverse terrain for dirt biking, off-road driving, and family-friendly recreational activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA), located in San Benito County, California, is a premier destination dedicated to off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation. Spanning approximately 1,636 acres of rolling hills and rugged terrain, it provides a variety of trails and riding areas tailored for motocross, dirt biking, off-road vehicles, and beginner riders. The park features over 40 miles of trails ranging from easy scenic routes to challenging rocky tracks designed to test advanced riders. Established in 1973 and operated by California State Parks, Hollister Hills SVRA is strategically situated near the city of Hollister, providing easy access for both locals and visitors from the San Francisco Bay Area. Beyond motorized recreation, the site also incorporates picnic areas, camping sites, and designated wildlife habitat, supporting species such as the California quail and various raptor birds. The terrain showcases chaparral, oak woodlands, and open grasslands with sweeping views of the Central Coast hills. Facilities include a motocross track, hill climb courses, and a youth riding area, making it a destination for riders of all skill levels. Seasonal events and competitive races draw enthusiasts annually, while educational programs promote responsible riding and environmental awareness. With its mix of natural beauty and controlled park management, Hollister Hills SVRA offers a unique opportunity for outdoor recreation focused on motorized sports in a scenic California setting.

Field Guide · State Vehicular Recreation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Kayaking Elkhorn Slough in Santa Cruz★ 7.5⌖ 18 miKayaking
Elkhorn

Kayaking Elkhorn Slough in Santa Cruz

Explore Elkhorn Slough near Santa Cruz, California. Easy kayaking for beginners with opportunities for birding and viewing sea otters. Visit during fall for optimal conditions and fewer crowds.

Water Paradise: San Luis Reservoir★ 7.8⌖ 22 miFishing
San Luis Reservoir

Water Paradise: San Luis Reservoir

Visit San Luis Reservoir in Merced County, California for fishing, boating, and hiking. This picturesque lake is serene and family-friendly, with best visits in spring and fall. Drive-in access and a quiet atmosphere make it ideal for a peaceful day outdoors.

Camping at Sunset State Beach in Santa Cruz, California★ 7.5⌖ 24 miBeach Camping
Sunset State Beach Campground

Camping at Sunset State Beach in Santa Cruz, California

Enjoy camping at Sunset State Beach, just 16 miles south of Santa Cruz. Experience ocean views, sandy beaches, and local wildlife. Ideal for family-friendly beach activities like surfing and birdwatching, with campground amenities including picnic tables and fire rings.

Beach CampingView Details→
Hiking Through Tunnel Trail, Santa Cruz Mountains★ 7.8⌖ 26 miHiking
Tunnel Trail

Hiking Through Tunnel Trail, Santa Cruz Mountains

Hike the 2-3 mile round-trip Tunnel Trail near Santa Cruz, California. This moderate hike features a historic hand-carved sandstone tunnel and shaded forest paths with ocean views. Ideal for families and casual hikers, best enjoyed in spring or fall.

Camping at Manresa State Beach in Santa Cruz★ 7.8⌖ 26 miCamping
La Selva Beach

Camping at Manresa State Beach in Santa Cruz

Camp at Manresa State Beach in La Selva Beach, CA for scenic ocean views and diverse beach activities. Enjoy camping, beginner-friendly surfing, and wildlife observation. Best experienced in late spring through early fall.

A Natural Wonder: Pinnacles National Park★ 8.5⌖ 26 miHiking
Pinnacles National Park

A Natural Wonder: Pinnacles National Park

Explore Pinnacles National Park's rugged terrain with trails that navigate rock formations and talus caves. Popular for hikers and climbers, it offers a hard challenge with dramatic views. Located near Soledad, California, ideal in spring for mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Motocross Track with Dedicated Practice Areas✦ Challenging Hill Climb Tracks for Experienced Riders✦ Youth Riding Area Designed for Beginners and Kids✦ Extensive Off-Highway Vehicle Trail System Through Diverse Terrain
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Off-Highway Vehicle Riding

Available in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Motocross

Available in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

OHV use requires a valid OHV sticker and day use fee or annual pass; non-motorized access is free.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Hollister Hills Campground

Located within the park, this campground offers sites close to riding areas with access to restrooms and potable water.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Hollister
⌖ 1.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hollister, California

A sunny Central Coast town offering rolling hills, farmland landscapes, and access to rugged natural areas, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of biking, hiking, and water-based recreation.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Tres Pinos
⌖ 5.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tres Pinos, California

A quiet rural town offering a gateway to serene outdoor experiences with rolling hills, nearby state parks, and quiet country trails.

Spring through FallExplore Town
San Juan Bautista
⌖ 7.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

San Juan Bautista, California

Historic small town offering relaxed outdoor activities with access to hiking, biking, and paddling in a peaceful California setting rich in cultural heritage.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Paicines
⌖ 9.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paicines, California

A quiet rural gateway with rugged landscapes and access to diverse outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and paddling in Central California’s scenic San Benito County.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Aromas
⌖ 14.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Aromas, California

A rural gateway offering peaceful hiking and biking spots amid rolling hills and farmland, with close access to coastal and inland natural areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Prunedale
⌖ 15.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Prunedale, California

A quiet rural town offering access to coastal landscapes and nearby wilderness, ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a less crowded experience.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.