East Bay Regional Park District

09/22/2023

Join thousands of volunteers on Saturday, September 23 from 9am-12pm for the 39th annual Coastal Cleanup Day! Each year the Park District partners with the California Coastal Commission to host a huge coastal cleanup event, where participating volunteers and staff clean up miles of Park District shoreline. Win a prize for the most unusual find, while supplies last! Registration is requested, but walk-ups are also welcome.

Help us beautify and preserve our shorelines and waterways during the 39th Annual Coastal Cleanup Day on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

09/22/2023

Join the Park District at a special community showcase of the newly renovated Roberts Pool in Oakland on Saturday 9/30 and Sunday 10/1 from 12-3:30.

Join us for an exciting preview of Roberts Pool, one of the East Bay Regional Park District’s most popular swim facilities, at Roberts Regional Recreation Area in Oakland.

09/20/2023

Join Ohlone Peoples from diverse tribal communities as they share their living history through music, song, dance, stories, and more.

📅 Date: Sunday, Oct. 1st
🕒 Time: 10am -3pm
📍 Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park

Connect and gain a deeper understanding of the local Indigenous Peoples' past, present, and future. Together, we'll learn, celebrate, and honor the first stewards of this land.

Mark your calendars and spread the word!

09/19/2023

Coastal Cleanup Day is Saturday, September 23 from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Sign up and help remove trash and plastic pollution at beaches and waterways throughout the Park District. Special prizes for the most unusual trash collected (while supplies last)! In partnership with the California Coastal Commission. More info: www.ebparks.org/get-involved/volunteer/coastal-cleanup

09/13/2023

Check out the September eNews to learn more about the latest news, happenings, programs, and activities in Regional Parks this month. ebparks.org/whats-new/newsletters

09/12/2023

Join us for an uplifting program of music, peace messages, poetry, and a lakeside walk at the UN International Day of Peace event on Saturday, September 16, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lake Chabot Regional Park in Castro Valley. This year’s theme is Actions for Peace, a call to action that recognizes our individual and collective responsibility to foster peace. https://www.ebparks.org/we-celebrate/international-day-of-peace/2023-un-international-day-peace

09/11/2023

The September-October Regional in Nature activity guide is out! Enjoy the latest guide packed with seasonal programs and activities in the parks, features on the Doolittle SF Bay Trail expansion, wildfire safety, Black Diamond's Somersville story, pelicans, pumpkins, and much more! www.ebparks.org/Sept-Oct-2023-RIN

09/07/2023

California is considered a global “biodiversity hotspot” — thousands of plants and animals rely on the habitat created by California’s diverse landscapes, seascapes, and the freshwater systems that connect them. California Biodiversity Day (Sept. 7th) celebrates our state’s biodiversity and encourages actions to protect it. The Park District is taking action to preserve our diverse habitats in our commitment to the state's 30x30 initiative, which aims to conserve 30% of California lands and coastal waters by 2030. Learn more: bit.ly/CABiodiversityDay2023

09/06/2023

Firefighter Training Burn Notice – Firefighter training burn at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline Scheduled Wednesday, September 6, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Smoke may be visible. Please do not report it to first responders, who are aware of the training burn.

Firefighter training burn at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline Scheduled Wednesday, September 6, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

09/01/2023

The developed recreation area at Radke Martinez Shoreline Park will be closed Tuesday, September 5, through November 2023, for irrigation replacement work. The new irrigation system will conserve water by significantly improving watering efficiency in the park.

Closed facilities include the parking lot, restrooms, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Alternative parking and restrooms are available at Grangers’ Wharf and Waterfront Park. Pickleweed Trail, Grangers’ Wharf Trail, and the Killdeer Trail between Grangers’ Wharf and Pickleweed will remain open during construction.

For more information about Radke Martinez Shoreline Park, visit www.ebparks.org/parks/radke-martinez.

08/29/2023

Park Happenings for September – Park District news, programs, and activities, including fire season info, Hispanic Heritage Month, Ardenwood Rail Fair, Garin Apple Festival, 39th annual Coastal Cleanup Day, and more...

Fire Season Info, Ardenwood Rail Fair, Garin Apple Festival, and more...

08/25/2023

Thurgood Marshall Youth Development Program series:
Part 3 - The Future Park

Thurgood Marshall Regional Park: Home of the Port Chicago 50 is located on the land of the old Concord Naval Weapons Station. This area that was used for moving ammunition during wars will become a place I look forward to going to relax. This land was added to the U.S. Navy’s ammunition loading port in 1944 for safety and capacity after an enormous explosion at the waterfront portion of the base took the lives of 320 men and 390 more were injured, the largest home front disaster of WWII.

For over 60 years, the U.S. military used this area to move munitions for several wars. Not accessible to the public for decades, the surrounding community is now supporting a change to make this land a public park, making it open and accessible for all people to visit. Possibilities for changes include old magazines where ammunition was held being open so people can see how it looked and see pictures that tell the story of the history here, creative reuse of old buildings for new learning spaces, conversion of rails to trails, and shade structures, benches, and tables for people to eat and relax. What would you like to see in the new Thurgood Marshall Regional Park - Home of the Port Chicago 50? (by Allison, Quintin, and Austin)

People Who Care Regional Parks Foundation

08/24/2023

The peak of 🔥🔥🔥 wildfire season – September & October – is fast approaching. Park District fighters and park rangers are on the lookout to prevent potential fires, and park visitors can help too, both by practicing basic fire safety and reporting any dangerous activity.

Here are some important park fire safety tips:
🚭 Do not smoke in the regional parks, including va**ng.
🚩 Be aware of Red Flag Warnings and fire danger levels.
• Follow all fire safety rules.
• Do not drive or park on dry grass. Hot exhaust manifolds can start a fire.
• Be alert for any potential fire hazards and report them. If you see a fire, call 911 immediately.

08/24/2023

Thurgood Marshall Youth Development Program series:
Part 2 - Thurgood Marshall’s Role

Thurgood Marshall, the first African American to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, holds important local connections to Eastern Contra Costa County and the greater East Bay. He is honored as part of the newest East Bay Regional Park’s namesake: Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50.

From a very early age Thurgood Marshall was committed to fighting for the same basic rights for all. During his time as a civil rights lawyer for the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People), he worked long days and travelled around the country fighting for social justice. During the U.S. Navy’s largest mass mutiny trial, Thurgood Marshall supported the Port Chicago 50 and their families when 50 Black men were charged with mutiny following a deadly explosion at Port Chicago Naval Magazine. He updated the public on the events of the trial, later appealed the resulting mutiny charge, and led attempts to get the men’s names cleared for wrongful convictions. This case was known about nationally and sparked the desegregation of the Navy because of Thurgood Marshall’s work.

Here in Contra Costa County, we are all connected to Thurgood Marshall’s work because the Port Chicago explosion and following mutiny trial he helped spread awareness about happened in our community. One of the men who served in the Navy loading ammunition could have been our great grandpa. We were surprised that we learn about Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr., but had never heard of Thurgood Marshall and his role in civil rights right here in our community. 79 years later, we have a park dedicated to telling the stories of Thurgood Marshall’s work, the Port Chicago 50, and other stories of social justice connected to this land. We hope to share the story to bring awareness to the men who chose to fight for a change. (by Julio, Megan, Ismael, and Christian)

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People Who Care Regional Parks Foundation

08/23/2023

Thurgood Marshall Youth Development Program series:
Part 1 - The Port Chicago Disaster

Just under 80 years ago and within 10 miles of our local community (of Pittsburg, CA), a deadly explosion and resulting events sparked nation-wide policy changes and contributed to the civil rights movement.

On July 17, 1944 shortly after 10:18pm a large explosion felt for hundreds of miles killed 320 men and injured 390 more. The majority killed were Black enlisted men ordered to load ammunition without receiving proper training and safety precautions. After the explosion, many of the Black survivors were ordered to go clean up the remains, and a few weeks later were told to go back to work with no changes in safety practices. Fifty of the men said they would not go back to work until safety policies changed. They were put on trial for mutiny (defined by U.S. code in 1956 as refusing to obey orders or otherwise do his duty or create any violence or disturbance with intent to usurp or override lawful military authority.) Ultimately, these men, known as the Port Chicago 50, were found guilty for just saying no to unsafe working conditions. This event, resulting media attention, and following appeals ultimately led to desegregation of the military.

This all happened about 7 miles from my house and I had never heard of this history before. As an important part of local and national history, we hope that you will share this information so we can continue to make progress towards a more equitable future. (by Javier and Jesus)

People Who Care Regional Parks Foundation

08/22/2023

This week we will be sharing a series of posts that are the result of the work of high school youth from the communities around the newest East Bay Regional Park in Concord: Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50. With support from EBRPD staff, 10 youth from community partner organization, People Who Care , participated in the Thurgood Marshall Youth Development Program to connect to the Regional Parks, learn about the location’s history, and create content sharing stories and future possibilities of this land.

Funded by Regional Parks Foundation

08/22/2023

"It's bath time," says Mama deer. (Black-tailed deer captured by trail camera, Tilden Nature Area.)

08/19/2023

Today, the Park District celebrated the opening of the San Francisco Bay Trail Gap and Improvements Project at Oakland’s Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline.

The new SF Bay Trail section provides safer passage for trail users, who can now walk, ride or roll on 2,300 feet of new paved trail – eliminating the need to use the shoulder of busy Doolittle Drive.

The project also upgraded the staging area and boat launch adjacent to the new trail, including a paved parking and renovated ADA-accessible boat, kayak and paddleboard launch area. The project also restored one acre of marsh habitat.

www.ebparks.org/about-us/whats-new/news/new-doolittle-bay-trail-expansion-brings-improved-safety-and-access-martin

08/18/2023

The East Bay Regional Park District is expanding and focusing its youth workforce development programs to support wildfire prevention efforts and trails maintenance work while increasing benefits for Bay Area at-risk youth and the greater community. Find out more...

The East Bay Regional Park District is expanding and focusing its youth workforce development programs to support wildfire prevention efforts and trails maintenance work while increasing benefits for Bay Area at-risk youth and the greater community.

08/18/2023

A bobcat mother and her two curious kittens enjoy a brief respite along Wildcat Creek in Tilden Nature Area.
Lynx rufus likely evolved from Eurasian Lynx that crossed the Bering land bridge over two million years ago. Bobcats now range from Canada to Mexico in many habitat types. The bobcat mostly preys on rabbits and squirrels, but also birds, reptiles, and even an occasional deer. They get their name from their short, “bobbed” tail.

08/15/2023

As the school year begins and the 2023 Swim Season winds down, Park District swim facilities transition to weekends & holidays only. Here's a look at Lake Del Valle. Fees vary by facility. Check swim facility hours/status before you go at www.ebparks.org/swimming.

08/15/2023

NWS-Bay Area: It's Heating Up Today☀️ with "Moderate HeatRisk" inland. Be mindful of the weather in Regional Parks and prepare accordingly. Stay hydrated💧, avoid extended exposure during the hottest part of the day🕒, and stay cool by wearing a hat👒 and loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing👕.

“Moderate HeatRisk persists for much of the interior today, as highs reach the 90s to the low 100s, while coastal areas stay in the upper 60s to mid 70s. Never leave children and pets unattended, avoid strenuous activities at the hottest part of the day, and stay hydrated! ”

08/15/2023

The Teen Eco Action Week program offers a specialized summer camp week where teens participate in a variety of Stewardship projects and outdoor recreation activities such as hiking 🥾, boating 🛶, fishing 🎣, and biking 🚴‍♀️ in their regional parks.

The program was created in 2007 to engage underserved youth in healthy, active outdoor activities and community service. Each year, the program serves youth ages 13 – 17 from Richmond, Bay Point, and Oakland by providing outdoor recreation experiences, teaching youth to use transportation to get outdoors, and creating awareness of careers in the outdoors. Skill-building activities, service learning, and career talks are woven throughout the week, including environmental education and recreation.

With the completion of this year's fantastic summer program, be sure to keep an eye out for applications when they open next spring 🌞!

08/03/2023

For dog owners 🐕, access to Regional Parks is one of the best features of the East Bay Regional Park District. While many other park agencies limit or ban dog access, the Park District allows them at most parks with specific rules to maintain safety, cleanliness, and protect wildlife.

One important Park District rule is that dog owners must clean up after their pets. 🗑️ Dog waste smells, contains pathogens and diseases that threaten wildlife, and is a major eyesore that takes away from enjoying nature – even when bagged.

Leaving p**p bags on trails is not acceptable and is considered litter 🚯. There are even attachable p**p bag holders to help carry dog waste on a leash, so the bags do not need to be carried by hand.

To learn more, visit: www.ebparks.org/about-us/whats-new/news/dog-lovers-clean-after-your-pet

08/01/2023

The Bay Area is home to 16 varieties of incredible bats🦇🦇🦇! Excellent hearing and ability to echolocate help them eat up to 50 percent of their weight in insects per night🌕. Bats are also vital pollinators, seed dispersers, and cash crop protectors🪴. If you like mangoes, bananas, or cashews, you can thank a bat for pollinating or protecting the plants by eating insect pests🐛.

Bat Watch Wednesdays are scheduled every other Wednesday in August at Sunol Visitor Center. Discover the wonderful world of local bats! Be a community scientist and count the number of bats and different species you can see👀. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/calendar and search “Bat Watch Wednesdays.”

07/31/2023

Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for a fun night out at Lake Chabot. Join us tomorrow, August 1 from 4-7 p.m for our first-ever National Night Out. Meet the Park District's police, fire, lifeguard, and park staff while enjoying hands-on, family-friendly activities and refreshments. Hope to see you there! www.ebparks.org/nno

07/28/2023

Indigenous people throughout California have a time-honored tradition of basket weaving that continues to thrive today. To celebrate and preserve their rich cultural heritage, an updated exhibit showcasing the exquisite artistry of Indigenous basketry has been unveiled at Coyote Hills Regional Park.

This exhibit highlights unique weaving techniques, patterns, and traditions of Indigenous Peoples. It features baskets from the Wukchumni, Yowlumne, and Tachi people of California's Central Valley, woven by different generations of the same Indigenous family.

These baskets are renowned for their intricate designs and exceptional durability and showcase Indigenous Peoples' ingenuity, knowledge, and skills in cultivating plant resources and creating functional artifacts.

Be sure to check the unique exhibit out, and click the link to learn more: www.ebparks.org/about-us/whats-new/news/new-indigenous-peoples-basket-exhibit

07/25/2023

On Tuesday, August 1st from 4-7 pm, join EBRPD public safety officers, firefighters, and lifeguards at the District's first National Night Out event at Lake Chabot Regional Park in Castro Valley. This event is part of a community-building campaign to promote police-community partnerships. Enjoy fun, hands-on activities!

• Talk with First Responders • Meet the Police Horses • See Fire Trucks • Visit the Peace Pole • Photo Booth, Kid Activities, Live DJ • Hot Dogs & Refreshments • Free Parking

More info at www.ebparks.org/nno

07/24/2023

Whether you’re hiking in Regional Parks🚶, venturing in nearby open spaces, or simply relaxing in your own yard, it’s important to be wary of ticks🪲, which are often present in tall grass, brush, and wooded areas.

Most ticks can’t fly or jump. They wait on the tips of grasses and in shrubs along well used paths🌿. With their front legs outstretched, they easily climb aboard unsuspecting hosts when they brush by. Ticks carry germs that can cause a number of diseases, including Lyme disease.

Ticks Tips:
Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes in tick country. Tuck shirt into pants, and pants into socks.🥾🧦 Stay on trails! Avoid brush and grassy areas. Use insect repellent on shoes, socks, and pants. Check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks thoroughly and frequently.🐕

What Does a Tick Look Like?
In California, the western black-legged tick is the major carrier of Lyme disease. The adult female is reddish brown with black legs, about 1/8 inch long. Males are smaller and entirely brownish black. Both are teardrop shaped.

Click the LINK BELOW to learn more.

Whether you’re hiking in Regional Parks, venturing in nearby open spaces, or simply relaxing in your own yard, it’s important to be aware of ticks...

07/22/2023

Beat the heat 🔥 this weekend and head to one of the many cooler, shadier Regional Parks with lower predicted temperatures. 🌳😎

There are lots of cooler options for hiking and riding in the East Bay Regional Park District.

07/21/2023

Another sizzling summer weekend is forecast for the inland East Bay communities. Be mindful of the weather near you and prepare accordingly. Stay hydrated, avoid extended exposure during the hottest part of the day, and consider visiting shoreline parks that are forecast with moderate temperatures (or even fog). See more tips on our Heat Safety page.

Staying Safe in Extreme Heat

07/20/2023

Back from the brink of extinction, the Mt. Diablo Buckwheat had not been spotted since 1936. 👀
Incredibly, the annual species was rediscovered at Mt. Diablo State Park in the Spring of 2005🎉.
In 2016, a large population was also found in Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve.
🌱The plants are now on display at the UC Botanical Garden in Berkeley, grown with seeds from the Black Diamond Mines population. The small pink wildflowers will likely last until mid-August.🌸🌸🌸

07/20/2023

Use your imagination to learn more about one of the Delta's most charismatic mammals at the upcoming Otter Festival🦦! Play like otters in our hands-on stream tables👐, get creative with thematic crafts✂️, and test out your otter athletic skills🏃‍♀️ from July 20-23.
For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/calendar and search "otter".

07/18/2023

Join us for an evening of fun community activities at the Park District's first-ever National Night Out event at Lake Chabot on Tuesday, August 1, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. All are welcome at this FREE event. Bring family and friends to enjoy the following:
• Meet the Park District's public safety officers, firefighters, lifeguards, and park rangers
• Visit the nature exhibits at the Mobile Visitor Center
• Stroll the trails and enjoy the lake
• Plus much more for the whole family!

Celebrate and strengthen community ties at the Park District's first-ever National Night Out event.

07/15/2023

During this weekend's excessive heat, visitor safety is especially important. Remember:
• Stay hydrated, plan ahead, and bring plenty of water
• Avoid hot parts of the day, or visit in the cooler morning and early evening
• Stay cool by wearing a hat and loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing
• Consider visiting on days when it is less hot for those vulnerable to heat
• Follow all fire safety rules. NO fireworks or smoking in parks.

Heat Safety: www.ebparks.org/Public-Safety/Heat-Safety

07/14/2023

Celebrate Latino Conservation Week 🌿🌍 and connect with your Regional Parks. Get outdoors, share your stories, and celebrate the achievements of the Latine community!

Join us for the upcoming programs:
☕🐦 Cafecito with the Pajaritos
⏰ Sat. 7/15, 8:30 – 10 am
📍 Coyote Hills Regional Park, Fremont

🤓🐮 Conociendo los Animales de La Granjita (Espanol/English)
⏰ Sun. 7/16, 10 – 11am
📍 Tilden Little Farm, Tilden Nature Area

🍦🌺 Paletas in the Garden
⏰ Sat. 7/22, 2 – 3 pm
📍 Coyote Hills Regional Park, Fremont

🐚🔥 Conchas & Seashells Campfire Program
⏰ Sat. 7/22, 8:30 – 9:30 p.m.
📍 Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay, Fremont

Visit www.ebparks.org/calendar for more details. ¡Esperamos verlos pronto!

07/12/2023

Be sure to check out the NEW Tyler Ranch Staging Area in Sunol, now open for visitors! The exciting new addition expands Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park with access to over 18 miles of new trails. Enjoy the new parking🚗, family picnic space🍽️🍉, equestrian staging area🐴, and so much more at the Pleasanton Ridge. For more information, be sure to click the link below.

Tyler Ranch Staging Area in Sunol is officially open for visitors. New amenities include 78 parking spaces, equestrian staging, restrooms, water fountains, and a small family picnic area.

07/11/2023

An excessive heat warning has been issued by NWS Bay Area Fri-Sun. Heat Safety Tips...
🌳 Seek out shady places and avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day (10am-7pm).
💧 Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
🚫 Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat's effects on your body.
😎 Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing. Protect your face and neck with a wide-brim hat.
🚗 Never leave infants, children, elderly or infirm individuals, or animals unattended in a parked car, even if in the shade.
🐾 Don’t forget your pets! Carry water for them, as water from streams or ponds is not always available or safe to drink. Consider keeping them home on the hottest days. www.ebparks.org/Public-Safety/Heat-Safety
📷 Marc Crumpler, Contra Loma

07/10/2023

🌊🌿 Happy Lakes Appreciation Month! Let's celebrate the incredible value of lakes in supporting wildlife habitats and providing recreational and water-supply opportunities for our communities. Del Valle is an East Bay Regional Park gem with a magnificent five-mile-long lake. The lake teems with diverse birds, fish, and plants, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. It's the perfect destination for fishing, kayaking, swimming, and countless other activities!

Lakes bring joy and inspiration to people for many reasons. This month, take a moment to reflect on the profound impact lakes have on you and your community. Share your appreciation for lakes and explore how they enrich our lives. What is it about lakes that you love?

07/06/2023

2023 Swim Season is in full swing, with most Park District swim facilities & shoreline beaches open daily. Here's a look at Cull Canyon Swim Lagoon. Fees vary by facility. Check swim facility hours and status before you go at www.ebparks.org/swimming.