Nestled among century-old trees in the rustic Cienega Valley 15
miles south of Hollister, the Thousand Trails San Benito Preserve
is a popular spot for campers, but may not be so well known to the
general public.
Nestled among century-old trees in the rustic Cienega Valley 15 miles south of Hollister, the Thousand Trails San Benito Preserve is a popular spot for campers, but may not be so well known to the general public.
Managers of the getaway spot are hoping that will change with the recent announcement that the formerly members-only gated retreat is now open to non-members who are interested in camping, picnicking or just getting away from the daily grind.
“We are very family-oriented,” said Linda Lenoir, recreation director for the local Thousand Trails. “We want the kids to come here and enjoy themselves and have fun in a good, wholesome environment.”
From miniature gold and ping pong, to swimming pools and recreation centers, the preserve offers amenities designed to enhance the recreational experience. The park includes basketball and shuffleboard courts, a fireplace room where movies are shown and an adult spa. There are pool tables, exercise equipment and a big-screen television as well.
Lenoir said guests are encouraged to bring their own recreational vehicle or tent or they can rent trailers ranging from 24 to 35 feet long. The trailers are stocked with all of the essentials for camping and cooking.
Thousand Trails is a gated facility located off Cienega Road south of the Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area. Lenoir said the security of the park is a selling point.
“If you go to any state park, they are not locked and anybody can go in and out there,” she said. “Here, you have to come through a gate and we have a security guard on duty 24 hours a day.”
See the full story in the Pinnacle on Friday.
