Martial Cottle Park

A Touch of Agricultural History

Found in San Jose, California, Martial Cottle Park sprawls across nearly 288 acres of urban greenspace with a unique twist - it's actually a working farm with a story to tell. This park emerged from a partnership between California State Parks and Santa Clara County, preserving what was once the Martial Cottle Family Ranch that had been continuously farmed for over 150 years.

What makes this place special isn't just its size but its mission: celebrating Santa Clara Valley's agricultural roots from the 1800s to today. Think of it as a living museum where you can experience both traditional park amenities and active farmland all in one visit.

What You'll Find

The landscape here is refreshingly straightforward - mostly flat terrain featuring organic fields, grasslands, and cultivated areas. This makes it particularly accessible for almost any activity you might have in mind, from casual strolls to more energetic pursuits like jogging or cycling.

Over 3 miles of paved trails wind through the property, giving you front-row views of the agricultural operations. These well-maintained paths circle the park's perimeter, but you might want to bring a hat as shade can be limited along the way.

You'll discover plenty of benches scattered throughout when you need a breather. You might spot local wildlife during your visit - ground squirrels dart about, hawks soar overhead, and if you're here during the early morning or evening, you might even see a coyote or two.

Places to Play and Relax

Kids will love the Uncle Monty's Discovery Farm playground, named after a Cottle family member. Instead of your typical swings and slides, children can scramble over farm-themed climbing structures and interact with life-sized animal statues. Next to the playground, a green lawn area features a stone amphitheater great for community gatherings.

Planning a get-together? The park offers numerous picnic areas with both sun and shade options. Several large covered spots can be reserved for special occasions, complete with BBQ facilities that make this an ideal location for family reunions or birthday celebrations.

No need to cut your visit short when nature calls - clean, modern restrooms are conveniently located across the park, including near the main entrance parking lot.

Dive Deeper into Farm Life

The park's Visitor Center doubles as a museum where you can explore the rich history of the land and the Cottle family. Exhibits showcase everyday farm life through displayed clothing, letters, toys, garden tools, and agricultural equipment.

Year-round, you can participate in educational programs and seasonal events that bring the farming experience to life. The Fall Festival is particularly popular, featuring old agricultural machinery demonstrations, entertainment, and various vendor booths, while Garden Markets offer a taste of local harvests.

Garden Enthusiasts, Take Note

One of the park's highlights is the UC Master Gardener Martial Cottle Park Community Education Center with its beautiful demonstration gardens. The native plant displays are particularly impressive and might inspire your own gardening projects. The center regularly hosts gardening classes and seasonal plant sales during their Spring and Fall Garden Fairs.

Bring Your Four-Legged Friends

Your dogs are welcome to join your park adventure, provided they stay on leashes no longer than 6 feet. You'll discover several dog-friendly water fountains and waste bag stations within the grounds to keep your pup comfortable and the park clean.

Real Working Farm Experience

Jacobs Farm, a leader in organic agriculture, manages 180 acres of the park for organic production and community education. This partnership lets you witness active farming in progress - something rarely found in urban parks. Don't miss the chance to take home ultra-fresh, locally grown produce from the on-site Farm Stand.

The park also includes a 4-H area that occasionally houses animals, giving you a glimpse into animal husbandry practices that have been part of California's agricultural tradition for generations.