Home is where the Railroad is.
The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that was founded in 1968. Both the railroad and W.E. “Bill” Mason Carousel exist as a legacy of Billy Jones and as a means to preserve history and entertain the public. All proceeds and donations go to perpetuating the railroad and carousel, as well as maintaining our ability to provide historical and entertaining recreation for persons of all ages. Every penny made goes into preserving this gem in Los Gatos.
What does being a nonprofit mean? The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad is a private organization that receives no outside funding. We are not part of the town of Los Gatos or the county of Santa Clara, and lease the property that we are on from both entities. Every penny that is acquired though ticket, retail, and food sales goes back into the organization – including costly repairs on all our equipment and buildings.
The railroad hosts special events to not only raise extra funds, but provide a different experience for our loyal patrons. Special events like the Pumpkin Train and the Holiday Train are a way for the railroad to ensure some funds for rainy days- quite literally, as we move into the slower winter season.
We can’t do it alone! We have a group of volunteers who give their time and resources to ensure that weekend after weekend the train and carousel can operate to provide a fun and inexpensive experience to the bay area, and a destination to the areas beyond.
The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad is committed to providing a great experience to children and adults alike. Ride aboard a real steam engine as it goes through beautiful Oak Meadow and Vasona Parks. Go round and round on 106 year-old carousel. The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad has rides, food, and most importantly fun!
Want to get in on all the fun? The railroad is always looking for great volunteers to continue the tradition and legacy of Billy Jones. If you don’t have time but have resources, all donations are tax deductible. Any help goes a long way for this little railroad.
The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad also provides great employment, ideal for students. The railroad provides great training in customer service, time management, money management, and food handling.
The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad operates in Oak Meadow Park with the cooperation of the Town of Los Gatos, and in Vasona Park with the cooperation of the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department.