Santa Teresa County Park Historic Joice Bernal Farm Family Trail Loop

About this adventure

Located in the tranquil southern foothills of San Jose, Santa Teresa County Park spans 1,673 acres of rolling terrain rich in Ohlone Native American and Spanish-Mexican ranching history. For families with little ones, the best starting point is the Historic Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch, an impeccably restored 1853 homestead located right on Bernal Road. Here, children can walk through the original two-story farmhouse, examine historic horse-drawn carriages and antique farm implements inside the redwood barn, and admire a towering historic wooden windmill and heritage fruit trees. From the ranch yard, the gentle, flat Joice Trail meanders alongside the historic spring-fed riparian corridor, where winter rains revive the freshwater springs that supported wildlife and indigenous communities for centuries. Educational panels along the path detail the daily life of ranching families, while wide open fields offer frequent sightings of black-tailed deer, jackrabbits, and red-tailed hawks soaring against the scenic foothill backdrop. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Flat, firmly packed dirt and paved walkways surround the historic buildings, barn, and garden areas, accommodating standard strollers and wagons easily. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Shaded wooden picnic tables under grand olive and walnut trees; ADA-compliant public restrooms with baby changing amenities located directly adjacent to the historic barn. • Age Suitability: Great for toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary school children interested in pioneer history, antique machinery, and gentle outdoor walking. • Sensory Tips: Exceptionally peaceful rural foothill atmosphere; gentle sounds of rustling leaves, bird calls, and babbling spring trickles create a calming environment.