What's the difference between Lower Ranch and Upper Ranch?

Lower Ranch is 3,300 acres with 128 miles of trails for motorcycles and ATVs only, featuring MX tracks, TT tracks, and diverse terrain. Upper Ranch is 800 acres with 24 miles of trails designated for 4x4 and Jeep vehicles only, with rock crawling terrain. They are completely separate riding areas with different vehicle restrictions.

Can I ride my dirt bike in Upper Ranch?

No. Upper Ranch is designated for 4-wheeled vehicles only (4x4s and Jeeps). Motorcycles and ATVs must stay in Lower Ranch. There is also Hudner Ranch (1,500 acres, 4x4 only with seasonal gated access) and Area 5 (large 4-wheeled vehicles like buggies and side-by-sides).

Are campgrounds reservable?

Most campgrounds are first-come, first-served including Lodge Campground, Bee Campground, and Madrone Campground in Lower Ranch. All offer flush toilets, water, and FREE WiFi. Sycamore Campground in Upper Ranch is also first-come, first-served. The only reservable sites are 2 remote Hudner Ranch campsites (4x4 access only) which can be booked online.

What happens when trails close due to weather?

Adobe and Renz areas close during wet conditions for safety and resource protection. These clay trails become extremely slippery when wet. Granitic and sandy trails on the western sections drain faster and may remain open when adobe areas are closed. Always check the trail status before riding at https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1179 or call (831) 637-3874.

Chapter 2 - Lower Ranch Overview: Essential Area Guide 2025

The Lower Ranch occupies approximately 3,300 acres of the eastern and central portions of Hollister Hills SVRA, featuring roughly 128 miles of trails dedicated exclusively to motorcycles and ATVs. This area is distinct from other Hollister Hills park sections:

Lower Ranch Overview

Geographic Context & Boundaries

Lower Ranch

3,300 acres
128 miles of trails
Motorcycles & ATVs only
MX, TT, ATV tracks

Upper Ranch

800 acres
24 miles of trails
4x4/Jeep only
Rock crawling terrain

Hudner Ranch

1,500 acres
30 miles of trails
4x4 only, gated
Seasonal access

Area 5

Large 4-wheeled vehicles
Buggies, Pilots, Odysseys
Separate from dirt bikes

The San Andreas Fault Divides the Park

Hollister Hills straddles the famous San Andreas Fault, creating two distinct riding environments:

Northeast Side (North American Plate): Clay-rich adobe soil, rolling hills, grasslands, oak woodlands
Southwest Side (Pacific Plate): Sandy granitic soil, steeper terrain, pine, sage, chaparral

This geological split means you can ride two completely different terrains in the same day!

Fellow Riders: We participate in affiliate programs and earn commissions when you buy gear through our links. Your price stays the same, and we only share products we'd actually use on the trails.

Park Access

Staging Areas & Facilities

Main Entrance/Staging Area

Address: 7800 Cienega Road, Hollister, CA 95023
Coordinates: 36.8369° N, 121.3764° W

Kiosk Services

Hours: Variable (automatic pay machine when closed)
Park maps available
Ranger information
Fee collection

Parking & Amenities

Shaded parking areas
Restrooms & water
Trail access
Information boards

Campgrounds (First-Come, First-Served)

Lodge Campground

Central location
Flush toilets & water
FREE WiFi
Near Faultline store

Bee Campground

Water & flush toilets
FREE WiFi
Shaded sites
Wash racks available

Madrone Campground

Water & flush toilets
FREE WiFi
Family-friendly
Good trail access

Sycamore (Upper Ranch)

~60 capacity
4x4 area access
Basic facilities
More remote

Park Services

On-Site Services

Faultline Powersports

On-Site Location: 7804 Cienega Road (at Lodge Campground)
Hours: Mon-Fri 10AM-5PM, Sat-Sun 9AM-5PM
Phone: (831) 637-9780

Services Available:

Parts & accessories
Riding gear & protective equipment
Snacks & beverages
Emergency supplies
Limited repair parts (mostly sales)

Off-Site Store:
90 San Felipe Road Suite C, Hollister, CA 95023
Phone: (831) 637-8550
Full service location with more inventory

Wash Racks

Located in camping and day-use areas throughout the park. Free to use - bring your own soap if desired.

Climate Conditions

Weather & Seasons

Season	Temperature	Conditions	Riding Notes
Summer (Jun-Aug)	85-105°F	Dry, dusty	Early morning rides best, hydration critical
Fall (Sep-Nov)	65-85°F	Ideal conditions	Best riding season, mild temps, firm trails
Winter (Dec-Feb)	45-65°F	Wet periods, closures	Adobe trails close frequently, check status
Spring (Mar-May)	60-80°F	Excellent conditions	Second-best season, wildflowers, firm trails

Trail Closure Protocols

Adobe & Renz areas close during wet conditions for safety and resource protection. Always check before riding:

Website: https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1179
Phone: (831) 637-3874
Instagram: @hollisterhillssvra

Granitic/sandy trails (western sections) drain faster and may remain open when adobe areas are closed.

Communications

Cell Coverage

Cell coverage is limited to spotty throughout the park according to California State Parks. Plan accordingly for safety. Consider a satellite communication device like those recommended by the American Motorcyclist Association for remote riding.

Best Reception Areas:

Main entrance/ranger station
Lodge Campground (also has WiFi)
Higher elevation ridge trails
Open areas away from canyons

Worst Reception Areas:

Deep canyons and valleys
Dense oak woodlands
Lower elevation trails

Emergency Protocol: If no cell service and you need help, ride to the ranger station or populated areas. Consider a satellite messenger (Garmin inReach, SPOT) for solo riding.

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