Temescal Regional Recreation Area, Berkeley Travel Guide

4.6 (1220)

Escape to nature in Oakland's Temescal Regional Recreation Area: swimming, hiking, picnics, and a historic beach house await!

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Temescal Regional Recreation Area

Temescal Regional Recreation Area, nestled in the Oakland Hills, offers a serene escape with a 13-acre lake, wooded hillsides, and various recreational activities. Originally a reservoir built in 1868, it's now a popular spot for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and hiking. The park also features a historic Beach House available for events.

A brief summary to Temescal Regional Recreation Area

6500 Broadway, Oakland, Upper Rockridge, California, 94618, US
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Monday 8 am-10 pm
Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
Thursday 8 am-10 pm
Friday 8 am-10 pm
Saturday 8 am-10 pm
Sunday 8 am-10 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Temescal Regional Recreation Area.

Check the East Bay Regional Park District website for alerts on water quality and trail closures before you go.
Parking fees are charged from April through October when the kiosk is attended, so bring cash.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash and are not allowed in the lake or beach area.
Consider reserving a picnic area in advance, especially if you're planning a group gathering.
Take public transportation. AC Transit Transbay Lines CB and V run near the park.

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Explore Temescal Regional Recreation Area on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Temescal Regional Recreation Area, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Oakland, take AC Transit Transbay Line CB or V, which run along Broadway Terrace near the park. Check the AC Transit website or 511.org for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ride on AC Transit costs $2.50.
Walking

From the Rockridge BART station, it's approximately a 1.5-mile walk to Temescal Regional Recreation Area. Head east on College Avenue, then turn right onto Broadway. Continue on Broadway until you reach the park entrance. The walk is mostly uphill and takes about 30 minutes.
Driving

From Highway 24, take the CA-13 S/Hayward exit. Then, take the Broadway Terrace exit and merge onto Broadway Terrace. The park entrance will be on the right. Parking fees are $5 per vehicle from April through October when the kiosk is attended. Partial South Parking Lot Closure will begin July 1, 2025 due to annual weed abatement/park maintenance.

Discover more about Temescal Regional Recreation Area

Temescal Regional Recreation Area (formerly Lake Temescal Regional Park) is a verdant 48-acre park nestled in the Berkeley Hills of Oakland. Originally constructed in 1868 by Anthony Chabot as a reservoir for the city of Oakland, the area has evolved into a beloved recreational space. The park officially opened to the public in 1936, becoming one of the first three parks in the East Bay Regional Park District.Lake Temescal is the park's centerpiece, offering a range of activities. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy swimming in the designated swim area, with lifeguard services available. Fishing is also a popular pastime, with designated areas for anglers. Please note that swimming may be restricted due to occasional algae blooms.The park features both paved and natural hiking trails that wind around the lake and through the surrounding hills. The East Shore Trail and Landvale Station Trail are wheelchair accessible, providing easy access for all visitors. For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Oak Bay Trail offers steeper grades and scenic views.Temescal Regional Recreation Area also boasts reservable picnic areas equipped with drinking fountains and barbeques. The historic Beach House, built in 1940, is a popular venue for weddings, parties, and corporate events, offering panoramic views of Lake Temescal.Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape from the city, a fun day out with the family, or a scenic spot for an event, Temescal Regional Recreation Area offers something for everyone.