Vasona Lake County Park

Vasona Lake County Park and the connected Los Gatos Creek Parkway are among the busiest outdoor spots in Santa Clara County. The 152-acre park has 45 acres of lawn for informal games such as frisbee, softball, or soccer, several first-come, first-served picnic areas, and eight group areas that can be reserved.

From early spring through early fall, pedal boats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards can be rented on the lake through Los Gatos-Saratoga Recreation; personal watercraft are not allowed without a permit. Anglers fish for black bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. At the north end, the Youth Science Institute runs nature programs and a nature center open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the Viola Anderson Native Plant Trail behind it offers a quiet walk. Next door, the Town of Los Gatos' Oak Meadow Park has a carousel and playground, and the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad's miniature trains run from Oak Meadow through Vasona.

The Los Gatos Creek Trail passes through the park on its nearly 9.5-mile route from Lexington Reservoir through Los Gatos, Los Gatos Creek County Park, Campbell, and San José, shared by hikers, runners, cyclists, and skaters. Leashed dogs are welcome, and free waste bags are provided.

Picnic tables cannot be saved without an adult and picnic gear present, and one party may hold up to three tables. Groups of more than 20 should reserve, parking spaces cannot be held, amplified music needs a permit, and loading in the yellow zone is limited to 20 minutes. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset, with a vehicle entry fee year-round at the Blossom Hill Road entrance.