Is the water spray pad at Hellyer County Park free?

Yes — the spray pad and playground are free to use. Parking in the county park may have a per-vehicle fee. Check Santa Clara County Parks for current rates.

When does the spray pad at Hellyer Park operate?

The spray pad typically runs during warmer months (late spring through early fall). Check Santa Clara County Parks website for current seasonal operating hours.

Is Hellyer County Park good for toddlers?

Yes — the ground-level spray pad is ideal for toddlers and children ages 1-6. The playground has equipment for slightly older kids too. Bring a towel and change of clothes.

Where is Hellyer County Park?

At 985 Hellyer Ave, San Jose, CA 95111 — in Santa Clara County, California.

Hellyer County Park Playground & Water Spray Pad

Rating

4.7(336)

Family of 4

USD 0 (parking fee may apply — check current county park rates)

Duration

1.5-3 hours

Best Ages

1-10

About

Hellyer County Park's playground and water spray pad is one of San Jose, California's most popular free family destinations during the warm summer months. Nestled within the larger Hellyer County Park along Coyote Creek, this specific playground area features a dedicated water spray pad that draws families with toddlers and young children from across the South Bay.

The spray pad layout is thoughtfully designed for the under-10 crowd: ground-level jets, water arches, and splashing zones that kids can navigate safely without the drowning risk of traditional pools. Parents can watch comfortably from benches in the shade while children run themselves gloriously tired. The adjacent playground equipment provides something for kids who'd rather climb than get wet.

The park itself extends well beyond the playground — Coyote Creek Trail offers 15 miles of paved path for families who want to add a bike ride or longer walk to their day. Picnic areas are scattered throughout, making it an easy all-day destination with your own food. Parking fees may apply for the main county park; check Santa Clara County Parks for current rates.

The playground and spray pad themselves are free to use.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Nursing / Changing

true

Setting

Rainy Day

Not ideal

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Summer mornings before 11 AM when the spray pad is running and it's not too hot; weekdays are less crowded

Wait Times

No wait for playground; spray pad can get busy on hot summer afternoons

Nearby Food

No on-site food. Bernal Road and Monterey Highway in the nearby Bernal neighborhood have fast food and local restaurants.

Why Kids Love It

The water spray pad is an absolute toddler magnet on hot California days — kids dash through jets and spouts while parents relax in the shade, making this one of those effortless summer outings where everyone goes home genuinely tired and happy.

Pro Tips from Parents

Note: This is Hellyer County Park in San Jose, California (95111) — located in the USA, not Costa Rica despite the city slug
The spray pad typically operates during warmer months — check Santa Clara County Parks for seasonal hours
The 15-mile Coyote Creek Trail runs through the park for families who want a longer bike or walking adventure