Welcome to Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area. It is a thrilling 6,800-acre playground nestled in the Gabilan Mountains. It is just south of Hollister, California. This unique off-road haven—straddling the San Andreas Fault—blends rugged terrain, varied ecosystems, and family-friendly amenities to create an unforgettable adventure for riders, hikers, equestrians, and campers alike.
What Makes Hollister Hills SVRA Unique
Hollister Hills SVRA isn’t just any OHV park. It’s California’s first SVRA. The park cuts through two tectonic plates. It offers clay-rich adobe hills in the northeast and sandy granitic slopes to the southwest. With nearly 200 miles of mapped trails, expert motocross tracks, and equestrian and hiking zones, this park delivers diversity whether you’re chasing adrenaline or seeking solitude.
Top Activities & Amenities
? Off-road Vehicle Trails & OHV Training
Riders can explore distinct zones: Lower Ranch for motorcycles/ATVs, Upper and Hudner Ranches for 4×4 vehicles, and specialized motocross tracks. Dirt bike riders can enjoy expert jumps, bermed single-lanes, and one-way trails. Free OHV youth training and MSF motorcycle courses are offered seasonally. Faultline Powersports onsite provides parts, repairs, and gear rentals.
?️ Camping & Group Facilities
Camping is available first-come, first-served in Lower Ranch (Radio Ridge, Walnut, Lodge, Bee, Madrone) and Upper Ranch (Sycamore, Obstacle Course). Amenities include fire rings, BBQ grills, picnic tables, drinking water, stalls, and ADA-accessible sites. The remote Hudner Ranch offers two primitive 4×4-accessed campsites and vault toilets. Group campsites accommodate larger gatherings.
? Restrooms, Showers & Drinking Water
The park offers flushing restrooms and free hot showers in Lower Ranch and select Upper Ranch campgrounds. Potable water spigots and trash/recycling stations are scattered throughout developed areas. A dump station is available off-site in Hollister.
?️ Picnicking & Hiking/Equestrian Trails
Shaded picnic areas with grills are located near staging zones. Non‑motorized visitors can enjoy Mudstone Ranch’s scenic hiking, equestrian, and biking trails—ideal for spotting oak woodland wildlife or grabbing some solitude away from the OHV buzz.
? Fishing, Wildlife & Photography
Fishing and hunting aren’t permitted. However, birders and photographers will appreciate grassland vistas. They will also enjoy seasonal creeks and sightings of deer, wild turkeys, and raptors. The park’s dramatic terrain—marked by the fault line—makes for dramatic photo backdrops at sunrise or sunset.
? Visitor Center & Support Services
The main trailhead features a staffed ranger station, kiosk for gate codes, and OHV permit sales. An on-site camp store sells firewood, ice, and OHV supplies. First aid and emergency services are available during operating hours.
⚙️ Accessibility & Equestrian Areas
Leashed dogs are permitted in day‑use and camping areas but not on OHV trails. Equestrian riders enjoy miles of designated trails in Mudstone Ranch. Parking lots serve each recreation zone with accessible spaces near staging areas.
Visitor Tips
- Fees: Day-use is $5/vehicle; camping is $10/vehicle/night. OHV Green or Red Sticker and OHV pass required for riding.
- Parking: Lot available at each entrance—main at 7800 Cienega Rd.
- Pet Rules: Dogs on ≤6-ft leash allowed in campground, day-use, and Mudstone Ranch—but not on OHV trails.
- Camping Tips: All sites are first‑come, except remote Hudner and ADA Lower Ranch spots. Quiet hours 10 pm–sunrise.
- Gear: Bring helmets, spark arrestors, and 8-ft flags for OHVs; safety gear mandatory.
- Fire Safety: Fires only in park fire rings; no ground fires; propane stoves permitted. Purchase firewood onsite.
- Facilities: Expect flush toilets, showers, potable water; no RV hookups—dump station in Hollister.
- Weather & Access: Adobe areas close in wet weather. Park open year-round sunrise to sunset.
- Connectivity: Limited cell service; free Wi‑Fi at Lower Ranch campgrounds.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Visit in spring or fall when dust is low and temperatures are mild—perfect for riding or hiking. Weekends fill fast; arrive early for primo camping spots in Walnut or Radio Ridge. For a quieter experience, try a weekday stay or explore Mudstone trails at dawn with binoculars in hand. After a full day, cruise into Hollister for classic Mexican fare or a cold brew at local breweries to round out your adventure.