Uvas Canyon County Park
A hidden gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Uvas Canyon offers stunning seasonal waterfalls and lush, mossy trails for a serene nature escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are at their peak
Uvas Canyon County Park
Best Time
Waterfalls are at their peak
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Uvas Canyon offers stunning seasonal waterfalls and lush, mossy trails for a serene nature escape.
"This park is packed with lush, mossy trails, wooden bridges over rushing streams, and stunning waterfalls at every turn."
🚗 Book Parking Online
A timed entry reservation is required. Book online in advance to guarantee entry and parking.
⚠️ Watch for Poison Oak
Be aware of poison oak on trails. Wear long pants and sleeves to protect your skin.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Waterfall Loop Trail
Various points along the loop
Hike past multiple cascades, including Granuja, Upper, Basin, and Black Rock Falls. Lush greenery and wooden bridges abound.
+3Mossy, Lush Trails
Throughout the park
Wander through vibrant, moss-lined paths and over charming wooden bridges, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.
+2
Seasonal Ladybug Swarms
Winter months
During colder months, witness thousands of ladybugs congregating in the park, a unique natural spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservations are Key
+3Waterfalls are Seasonal
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Parking Online
A timed entry reservation is required. Book online in advance to guarantee entry and parking.
⚠️ Watch for Poison Oak
Be aware of poison oak on trails. Wear long pants and sleeves to protect your skin.
💧 Waterfalls are Seasonal
Best waterfall views are after winter rains. Dry season may have minimal flow.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be steep in sections. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for navigating the terrain.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Parking Online
A timed entry reservation is required. Book online in advance to guarantee entry and parking.
⚠️ Watch for Poison Oak
Be aware of poison oak on trails. Wear long pants and sleeves to protect your skin.
💧 Waterfalls are Seasonal
Best waterfall views are after winter rains. Dry season may have minimal flow.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be steep in sections. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for navigating the terrain.
💰 Bring Cash for Fee
While reservations are online, some sources mention having cash for the entrance fee if needed.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Help keep the park beautiful by packing out all trash and respecting the natural environment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Uvas Canyon County Park for its beautiful, numerous waterfalls and lush, mossy trails, making it a picturesque escape. The park is well-suited for families and offers a serene natural environment. However, some note that waterfall flow is highly seasonal and can be minimal in dry periods, and occasional noise disturbances from other campers have been reported.
"Great experience! It had one of the cleanest restrooms and showers in a public campsite. We stayed there for two nights, and the employee's were helpful and friendly. However, some campers did not respect the 10 PM - 7 AM quiet policy, and music played until 2 AM. The campsite was conveniently located near the walking path to the waterfall. We had a great time, but not much sleep."
adali llc
"We believed the reviews and came here. There are quite steep slopes to reach the waterfalls, and contrary to the pictures, there isn't much water, making swimming difficult. I searched for hours and finally found a small pool, but it was difficult to reach. You'll see reservation signs along the way before arriving here. Don't be fooled; reservations are made at the entrance; the staff is helpful. The first parking lot to the right of the entrance is for day visitors; the others are for campers. It's not worth it if you're coming from afar. It's one of those classic parks you can find anywhere. If there's water, they'll definitely charge you a fee. The entrance fee is $6 for a standard car."
Caner Orbay
"Timed entry reservation seems to be working well. There was no need for circling around looking for parking spots.
The hike was also pretty nice, first section runs along the creek with several water falls along the route, easy access for all, some families bathing in the water falls.
Later section climb up the hills, which will get a bit strenuous but as elevation gains, there will be occasional view down below."
Yuta Higuchi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Uvas Canyon County Park is located at 8515 Croy Rd, Morgan Hill, CA 95037. It's about 1.5 hours from San Francisco.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Uvas Canyon County Park due to its remote location. Driving is the most practical method.
Parking requires a timed entry reservation booked online in advance. This system helps manage crowds and ensures parking availability.
Yes, camping is available with prior reservation. You can find reservation details on the park's official website or through platforms like gooutsideandplay.org.
While the park offers camping, specific details about RV suitability and hookups should be confirmed directly with the park or through their reservation system.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a timed entry reservation is mandatory for all visitors. Book your reservation online in advance to guarantee entry.
The standard entrance fee for a vehicle is typically $6. It's advisable to confirm the current fee when making your online reservation.
Uvas Canyon County Park is generally open from 8 am until sunset. Always check the official park website for the most up-to-date hours.
While online reservations are preferred, some visitors have reported being able to purchase passes or print receipts at the entrance. It's best to secure your reservation online beforehand.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized. It's recommended to check the official park website or contact them directly for any available discount programs.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Waterfall Loop Trail (1.5-2.9 miles) is highly recommended for its numerous waterfalls. For a longer hike, consider the Contour and Waterfall Loop (3 miles). +4
Hikes range from easy to moderately difficult. The Waterfall Loop is generally accessible, but some sections involve steeper climbs. It may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Swimming is possible in some areas, especially during the rainy season when water flow is strong. However, some visitors note that water levels can be low and access difficult.
Restrooms are available, primarily located near the front of the parking lot. Plan accordingly as they may not be available at all trailheads.
Yes, Uvas Canyon County Park is dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Focus on the numerous waterfalls, moss-covered bridges, and lush forest scenery. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the magical atmosphere.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the forest and waterfalls. A tripod can be useful for long exposures to smooth out water flow.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers soft, warm light. Midday can be harsh, but the dense canopy provides shade.
General photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing wildlife or natural features.
Drone usage is typically restricted in county parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check park regulations for specifics.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 The park's natural beauty, including mossy trails and the chance to see ladybugs in winter, provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to connect with nature. While some trails have steeper sections, the main loop is generally manageable for younger hikers. 💰 Budget Travelers
+2 The park's main attractions, the waterfalls and hiking trails, are accessible with this fee, making it a cost-effective day trip. Camping is also available for those looking to stay longer without incurring hotel costs, though reservations are essential. +1 Packing your own food and drinks will further help keep costs down, as dining options within the park are limited. 📸 Nature Photographers
The Waterfall Loop Trail provides numerous vantage points for capturing cascades, lush greenery, and the unique moss-covered landscapes. +2 Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the forest and falls, and a tripod for long exposures to achieve silky water effects. The soft light during golden hours can add a magical quality to your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Waterfalls
+4 While some visitors have noted that water flow can be less impressive in drier periods, the park's lush, verdant surroundings still offer a captivating experience. For those hoping to enjoy the water more intimately, swimming is sometimes possible in the pools beneath the falls. However, this is highly dependent on water levels and accessibility, which can vary greatly.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
+4 This trail is well-marked and generally easy to navigate, though it does feature some elevation gain, particularly in the initial sections. Beyond the Waterfall Loop, other trails like the Contour Trail offer opportunities for longer treks. While many trails are manageable, some sections can become steep, making them potentially challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
The park's natural beauty is best enjoyed when visitors are prepared for the physical demands of the trails and mindful of the surrounding environment. Camping and Facilities
+1 Campers can expect amenities such as restrooms and showers, which have been noted as being quite clean by visitors. While the park offers a peaceful retreat, it's worth noting that some campers have experienced noise disturbances from other visitors who did not adhere to the quiet hours.
For those seeking a more rustic experience, the park's natural setting provides a serene backdrop for camping, though it's always wise to check the latest facility updates and policies before your stay. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit