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Heather Farm Park: Walnut Creek's Community Oasis

Discover Walnut Creek's vibrant heart: Heather Farm Park, where history, nature, and recreation unite for an unforgettable experience.

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Heather Farm Park is a sprawling 102-acre community park in Walnut Creek, CA, offering a diverse range of recreational activities and natural beauty. From its all-abilities playground and gardens to its sports fields and equestrian center, the park provides a welcoming space for residents and visitors of all ages to connect with nature and engage in healthy pursuits.

A brief summary to Heather Farm Park

  • Monday 7 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-9 pm
  • Friday 7 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-9 pm

Local tips

  • Bring a fishing license if you plan to fish in the cement pond.
  • Be mindful of geese and their droppings, especially near the pond.
  • Visit the Gardens at Heather Farm to explore themed gardens and enjoy seasonal blooms.
  • Check the park's event calendar for concerts, festivals, and community gatherings.
  • Dogs are allowed off-leash only in the designated dog park at the north end of the park.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Heather Farm Park is accessible via several County Connection bus routes. Routes 1, 7, 11, 14, 15 and 311 have stops within walking distance of the park. Check the County Connection website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single ride fare is typically around $2.25. Alternatively, you can take BART to Walnut Creek or Pleasant Hill station and then transfer to a bus or take a taxi/rideshare to the park.

  • Walking

    If you are in downtown Walnut Creek, Heather Farm Park is approximately a 1.5-mile walk. Head east on Ygnacio Valley Road, then turn left onto N San Carlos Drive. The park entrance will be on your left. The walk should take around 30 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From downtown Walnut Creek, a taxi or rideshare to Heather Farm Park will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is estimated to be between $13-$20. Taxi services like Yellow Cab Co. operate in Walnut Creek. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

Unlock the Best of Heather Farm Park

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Discover more about Heather Farm Park

Heather Farm Park, a 102-acre jewel in Walnut Creek, California, stands as a testament to the city's commitment to providing diverse recreational and natural spaces for its community. More than just a park, it's a dynamic hub where history, nature, and recreation converge, offering something for everyone who seeks respite from the urban bustle. Originally, the land was known as Sulphur Springs Ranch, a health spa established in 1874, catering to those seeking therapeutic waters. Its transformation began in 1921 when John Marchbanks, a prominent figure in the gambling scene, purchased the property. Marchbanks, with a keen eye for equestrian excellence, renamed it Heather Farm after his prized stallion, King Heather. He invested heavily, constructing a Spanish-style mansion, a half-mile racetrack, and extensive stables, turning Heather Farm into a premier horse-breeding facility, renowned as the most important horse-breeding farm west of the Mississippi. An arena on the farm was even used in the filming of the 1931 movie 'Sporting Blood'. In 1965, Walnut Creek voters approved a municipal bond to create community parks. The city acquired a portion of Heather Farm, and Phil and Ruth Bancroft donated five acres, contributing to the park's foundation. Heather Farm Park officially opened in 1970, preserving a piece of Walnut Creek's heritage while offering modern recreational amenities. Today, Heather Farm Park boasts an impressive array of features. The Gardens at Heather Farm, a six-acre collection of themed gardens, showcases the horticultural artistry of local garden clubs. The park also includes a swimming pool, an all-abilities playground, sports fields, an equestrian center, a dog park, a fishing pond, a nature area, and a lake. The Contra Costa Canal Regional Trail also intersects Heather Farm Park, connecting it to other regional parks and trails. Throughout the year, Heather Farm Park hosts a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, and community gatherings.

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