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Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area, San Joaquin Valley Travel Guide

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Escape to Shadow Cliffs: A former quarry reborn as a recreational oasis for swimming, fishing, and family fun in Pleasanton, California.

Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area is a 266-acre park in Pleasanton, CA, transformed from a gravel quarry into a popular destination for swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking. With an 80-acre lake at its heart and smaller lakes connected by an arroyo, it's a refreshing escape with a unique history.

A brief summary to Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area

  • Monday 6 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-9 pm
  • Friday 6 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-9 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure parking and prime picnic spots.
  • Check the East Bay Regional Park District website for water quality advisories before swimming.
  • Bring your own shade, as shaded areas can be limited, particularly on the beach.
  • A daily District Fishing Permit and a California State Fishing License are required to fish in the lake.
  • Consider bringing a beach wheelchair for easier access to the swimming area; they are available first-come, first-served.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-580 in Pleasanton, take the Airway Boulevard exit and head south. Turn right onto Kitty Hawk Road, which becomes Isabel Avenue. Turn left onto Stanley Boulevard and proceed up the on-ramp. At the intersection, turn left onto Stanley Boulevard and continue for about 2.2 miles; the park entrance will be on the left. Parking is $6 per vehicle.

  • Public Transport

    The Livermore-Amador Valley Transit Authority WHEELS #10 bus, which runs from the Dublin/Pleasanton BART station and downtown Livermore, stops at Shadow Cliffs daily. Check the bus schedule for current times and fares via the Transit.511.org website or by calling (925) 455-7500.

Discover more about Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area

Once a gravel quarry, Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area is now a beloved park offering a variety of outdoor activities. Kaiser Industries donated the land to the East Bay Regional Park District, opening it to the public in 1971. The park's transformation included creating an 80-acre lake, picnic areas, and ample parking.The main draw is the lake, perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, and a bathhouse and refreshment stand are conveniently located near the swimming beach. Anglers can enjoy weekly trout and catfish plants, as well as the chance to catch bluegill and black bass. For a quieter experience, explore the arroyo with its chain of smaller lakes and ponds, ideal for birdwatching and peaceful retreats.Beyond the water, Shadow Cliffs offers accessible parking, trails, picnic tables, and restrooms. An interpretive pavilion highlights the park's history and ecology. With its blend of recreation and natural beauty, Shadow Cliffs provides a refreshing escape for all.

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