Welcome To Nature | Open Space Authority

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WHO WE ARE

The Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority is a public agency committed to land conservation, wildlife protection and community access to nature. Since 1993, we’ve been preserving open space and ensuring future generations have access to clean air, water and natural landscapes.

OUR EFFORTS

LAND CONSERVATION

WILDLIFE CORRIDORS

PUBLIC ACCESS AND TRAILS

AGRICULTURAL PRESERVATION

EXPLORE LOCAL LANDSCAPES

The best way to discover your open spaces is to visit them! Open Space Authority preserves are open year-round, free to visit and offer opportunities for people of all backgrounds and interests to connect with nature. Come hike or walk, bike, horseback ride or simply relax in a beautiful landscape.

Find Hidden Gems in Your Backyard

to hikers with their backs to the camera on a dirt trail with a large tree to the right and a huge expanse in front of them

Coyote Valley

Located in the rural greenbelt between San José and Morgan Hill, Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve offers breathtaking panoramic views throughout the preserve. Visit Coyote Valley

A green hill full of wildflowers with a blue sky in the background

Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge

A biodiversity hotspot, rare serpentine grasslands and soils are a unique feature of this preserve. While the hillsides stay golden most of the year, each spring brings stunning displays of wildflowers that are not to be missed. Rare species, such as the endangered Bay checkerspot butterfly, thrive here. Visit Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge

large field of lupines that are purple with white tips

Rancho Cañada del Oro

Featuring mixed woodlands, grasslands and glistening creeks, this preserve nestled in the southern foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains is a hidden gem. Visit Rancho Cañada del Oro.

dirt trail with dry grasses in the foreground and green mountains against a blue sky with few clouds

Sierra Vista

Located in the Eastern foothills of Santa Clara County, Sierra Vista boasts some of the best views in the region, amidst oak woodlands, rolling grasslands and chaparral habitats. Visit Sierra Vista.

WHY IT MATTERS

NATURE NEEDS US - NOW MORE THAN EVER

With growing development, open space protection is critical for climate resilience. When we protect nature, we protect you — by safeguarding clean drinking water, biodiversity and providing natural buffers against wildfires, flooding and drought. Your involvement helps secure a better future for people and planet.