Martial Cottle Park
Interactive Park Map
About the Location
Historical Significance
Martial Cottle Park is a 287.54-acre urban park located in San Jose, California. The park was developed as a collaboration between the California Department of Parks and Recreation and Santa Clara County Parks. It is situated on land that was formerly the Martial Cottle Family Ranch, which had been continuously farmed for over 150 years.
The park celebrates the agricultural heritage of Santa Clara Valley, showcasing the area's farming history from the mid-1800s to the present. This unique park combines elements of a traditional urban park with working farmland, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's agricultural past while providing modern recreational amenities.
Park Features
Martial Cottle Park features a mix of open spaces, including organic fields, grasslands, and cultivated areas. The park's landscape is primarily flat, making it accessible for various activities.
A network of paved trails extends over 3 miles throughout the park, allowing visitors to explore the grounds and observe the agricultural operations.
Visitor Experience
The park includes a Visitor Center where guests can learn about the history of the land and the Cottle family. Exhibits display items from daily life on the farm, such as clothing, letters, toys, garden tools, and farm equipment.
Educational programs and seasonal events, like the Fall Festival and Garden Markets, are regularly held to engage the community and promote understanding of sustainable farming practices.
Agricultural Partnership
Jacobs Farm, a leader in organic farming, partners with the park to manage 180 acres for long-term organic agricultural production and community education. This partnership allows visitors to see active farming in progress and even purchase fresh, locally grown produce at the on-site Farm Stand.
