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Temescal Regional Recreation Area, Oakland Travel Guide

4.6 (1219)

Escape to Oakland's Temescal Regional Recreation Area: a historic lake, scenic trails, and urban nature retreat for all ages.

Nestled in the Oakland Hills, Temescal Regional Recreation Area offers a tranquil escape with a 13-acre lake, originally built in 1868 as a reservoir. Today, it's a beloved park for swimming, fishing, hiking, and picnicking.

A brief summary to Temescal Regional Recreation Area

  • 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
Eve
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 water quality before swimming, as the lake is tested weekly for bacteria and algae.
  • Parking fees are charged from April through October when the kiosk is attended.
  • Dogs are welcome on leash but are not allowed in the lake or beach area.
  • The East Shore Trail is wheelchair accessible, offering a pleasant stroll around the lake.
  • Visit the historic Beach House, constructed in 1940, for a glimpse into the park's past.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Rockridge BART station, take AC Transit routes 51A, 51B, 660, or 79. These buses stop near the lake at Broadway Terrace & Sheridan Road or Florence Avenue & Broadway Terrace. A single fare on AC Transit is typically $2.50.

  • Driving

    From Highway 24, take the exit for Broadway or Broadway Terrace. Follow signs to Temescal Regional Recreation Area. There are two entrances: the North Entrance at 6500 Broadway and the South Entrance at 6502 Broadway Terrace. Parking fees are charged April through October, costing $5 per vehicle. Limited free street parking is sometimes available outside the Broadway entrance.

  • Walking

    From the Rockridge neighborhood, follow Broadway or Broadway Terrace south towards the Oakland Hills. Look for signs indicating the entrances to Temescal Regional Recreation Area. The North Entrance is located at 6500 Broadway, and the South Entrance is at 6502 Broadway Terrace. The walk is moderately uphill.

Discover more about Temescal Regional Recreation Area

Temescal Regional Recreation Area (TRRA), formerly Lake Temescal Regional Park, is a cherished 48-acre urban retreat in Oakland, California. Originally constructed in 1868 by Anthony Chabot as a reservoir for the town of Oakland, the area evolved into one of the East Bay Regional Park District's first three parks, opening to the public in 1936.The park's centerpiece is the 13-acre Lake Temescal, offering seasonal swimming with lifeguard services. Anglers can enjoy fishing, while a paved path around the lake provides an easy, accessible route for walkers and joggers. The historic Beach House, built in 1940, overlooks the lake and is a popular venue for events.TRRA features picnic areas with BBQ grills, playgrounds, and diverse flora, including live oak, willow, and ferns. The Hayward Fault runs through the park, creating unique geological features. Visitors can explore various trails, including the wheelchair-accessible East Shore Trail and Landvale Station Trail.Whether you're seeking outdoor recreation or a peaceful escape, Temescal Regional Recreation Area provides a refreshing experience in the heart of the East Bay.
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