History & Background

Founding Timeline & Key Milestones

According to California State Parks, the SVRA system was established to provide dedicated areas for off-highway vehicle recreation.

Management Context

Hollister Hills SVRA is managed by the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division, created to provide statewide leadership in OHV recreation, acquire and operate SVRAs, and balance recreational impacts with environmental conservation.

The OHMVR program was established through the landmark Chappie Z'berg Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Law of 1971, signed by Governor Ronald Reagan. This legislation recognized the growing demand for off-highway recreation and created a dedicated funding mechanism and management structure.

The Godfather of Hollister Hills: Howard Harris

The Godfather of Hollister Hills: Howard Harris

Howard Harris laid the groundwork for what we now know as Hollister Hills SVRA. His family's connection to the land goes back to 1846, when his great grandfather, Jesse Whitton, worked as a civilian surveyor for the John C. Fremont expedition.

Captivated by the area, Jesse later returned and purchased 600 acres for just $50 per acre. The land stayed in the family for generations, eventually passing down to Howard in 1959—making him the last private owner of the property.

Over the years, he expanded the holdings by acquiring more surrounding properties, personally building many of the roads and trails that still form the backbone of the park today.

Howard used the land for everything from mining, farming, and ranching to hunting, scientific research, and off-highway vehicle recreation. His vision and efforts created the foundation of one of California's most beloved SVRAs—earning him the title of the true "Godfather of Hollister Hills."

Why This Matters Today

Understanding Chapter 1: History & Background helps riders appreciate why this park operates the way it does. The careful balance between recreation and conservation stems directly from the park's founding principles established in 1971.

Key points that connect past to present:

• First SVRA Status: As California's pioneering off-highway park, Hollister Hills set the template for all future SVRAs in the state
• Trail Heritage: Many of today's trails were originally built by Howard Harris himself, creating a direct connection to the park's origins
• 50th Anniversary Significance: The October 11, 2025 celebration marks 50 years of public OHV recreation—no other California SVRA can claim this milestone
• Conservation Balance: The OHMVR Division's dual mandate of recreation and environmental stewardship reflects lessons learned over five decades

The legacy of Howard Harris and the vision of the 1971 legislation continue to shape your riding experience today, from the trail network to the strict environmental protocols that protect this land for future generations. The history of off-road riding in California has been documented by the American Motorcyclist Association for decades.