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Roberts Regional Recreation Area: A Redwood Retreat in Oakland

Discover Oakland's Redwood Retreat: Hike scenic trails, picnic among towering trees, and enjoy family fun at Roberts Regional Recreation Area, a natural escape in the East Bay.

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Escape the urban bustle and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Roberts Regional Recreation Area, a hidden gem nestled in the Oakland Hills. This 87-acre park boasts a lush redwood forest, offering a serene natural setting for picnics, hiking, and family fun. With its accessible playground, swimming pool, and connections to Redwood Regional Park's extensive trail system, Roberts provides a diverse range of activities for all ages and abilities. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll among towering redwoods, a refreshing dip in the pool, or a fun-filled day with the kids, Roberts Regional Recreation Area offers a refreshing escape into nature without leaving the city.

A brief summary to Roberts Regional Recreation Area

  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal amidst the towering redwoods. Several reservable and first-come, first-served picnic areas are available.
  • Bring your hiking shoes and explore the connecting trails to Redwood Regional Park for a longer, more challenging adventure.
  • Visit the park's "Barrier Free" playground, which is wheelchair accessible and features engaging activities for children of all abilities.
  • Check the East Bay Regional Park District website for the Roberts Pool schedule, open seasonally for recreational swimming.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds, especially during peak season.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Highway 13, take the Redwood Road exit northbound or the Joaquin Miller Road/Lincoln Avenue exit southbound. Follow Redwood Road or Joaquin Miller Road uphill to Skyline Boulevard. Turn left onto Skyline Boulevard, and Roberts Regional Recreation Area will be one mile on the right. Parking is $5 per vehicle.

  • Public Transport

    AC Transit line #46 runs on weekdays to the intersection of Skyline Blvd. and Joaquin Miller Road. From there, it's a one-mile walk uphill along Skyline to Roberts Regional Recreation Area. Alternatively, from behind the former EBRPD headquarters (11500 Skyline Blvd.), it is 1.08 miles along the Dunn and Graham trails to Roberts. AC Transit fares vary, check their website for current pricing.

Unlock the Best of Roberts Regional Recreation Area

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Discover more about Roberts Regional Recreation Area

Roberts Regional Recreation Area, a verdant oasis in the Oakland Hills, offers a refreshing escape from city life. This 87-acre park, part of the East Bay Regional Park District, is renowned for its magnificent grove of second-growth redwood trees, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting for a variety of outdoor activities. Steeped in history, the area's redwood forests were heavily logged between 1840 and 1860 to supply building materials for the burgeoning communities of San Francisco and Oakland following the Gold Rush. Today, the resilient redwoods have returned, creating a lush canopy that filters sunlight and fills the air with a fragrant, earthy aroma. Roberts Regional Recreation Area officially opened in 1952, named in honor of Thomas J. "Tommy" Roberts, a dedicated secretary and board member of the East Bay Regional Park District. The park's redwood grove offers an accessible experience for those who may not be able to hike long distances, allowing everyone to appreciate the majesty of these towering trees. History buffs can explore the Madrone Picnic Area, home to California Historical Landmark #962, commemorating the "Blossom Rock Navigation Trees." These landmark trees, prominent redwoods, once served as vital navigational aids for sailors entering San Francisco Bay, helping them avoid the treacherous Blossom Rock, a submerged hazard near Alcatraz Island. Roberts Regional Recreation Area caters to a wide range of interests and abilities. Families with young children will delight in the park's "Barrier Free" wheelchair-accessible playground, featuring engaging structures and educational stations. A 25-yard heated swimming pool, open seasonally, provides a refreshing escape during warmer months. The pool complex includes accessible changing rooms and a pool lift, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the water. For those seeking outdoor adventure, Roberts offers numerous hiking and biking trails that connect to the extensive trail system of Redwood Regional Park. Explore the Graham and Dunn trails, or venture further into Redwood Regional Park via the West Ridge and Roberts Ridge trails. These trails wind through redwood forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, foxes, raccoons, and a variety of bird species. Roberts is a popular destination for picnics and gatherings, with eight reservable picnic sites accommodating groups of varying sizes. Each site is equipped with picnic tables, serving tables, barbecue pits, and drinking fountains. Reservations are recommended for groups of 25 or more. Several individual picnic tables and cooking areas are also available on a first-come, first-served basis. The park's serene atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal location for weddings and other special events. Beyond its recreational offerings, Roberts Regional Recreation Area plays a vital role in preserving the region's natural heritage. The park provides essential habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, contributing to the ecological health of the East Bay. The East Bay Regional Park District is committed to responsible stewardship of the park's resources, ensuring that future generations can enjoy its beauty and benefits. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the Bay Area, Roberts Regional Recreation Area offers a memorable experience. From its towering redwood trees and accessible playground to its swimming pool and hiking trails, Roberts provides a diverse range of activities for all ages and interests. Escape the city and discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Roberts Regional Recreation Area – a true gem of the East Bay.

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