Beautiful neighborhood park in Oakland with a short loop walking path. The path is flat and paved for half, and has some stairs and dirt on the other part. The water is not typically safe to swim in due to toxic algea, etc., though I shocked to see swimmers there last year. They have a little boat house you can rent out for parties. And they have a nice grass area where picnics can be had. It's lovely on sunny days and not too crowded. There are freeways around it, though not super noticeable in most of the park. read more

This is such a hidden little gem of a park. I come here on a regular to walk around the lake. It's never really busy and has plenty of space to bring kids and pets.If you like to hike they have a few paths in the area to take nothing major just to get a little sweat going. One good thing about this park is they have plenty of parking. Oh, I'm also forgetting they have fishing and a little beach. But ever since I have been coming here the beach has not been open. Definitely worth checking out if you're in the area. read more

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Great for a chill dog walk on the weekend I like that there is room to set up a BBQ , there Are lots of fishing spots and places for kids to play I have yet to swim but I bet on a hot day it's a good time! read more

This regional park is a good place to have large group picnics or birthday parties since there are areas that can be reserved and there are plenty of bathrooms and parking. It's a bit of nature not far from an urban area. I would never touch that lake water let alone have my kids swim in it. It is a little man made lake with seemingly little drainage or fresh water flow. The water is green, filled with ducks and stocked fish. Noooo thank you. But people do splash around and have fun there, so there you go. As for a walk around the lake, it is not super attractive. The trail is filled with dusty ivy and litter. The path is narrow and sharing it is tricky with runners, fishers, dogs on leash, and us going slowly with little kids. Wherever you go, there's the sound of the freeway. Going here for hiking is not worth it. There were people walking with those hiking sticks wearing explorer pants, and I was like "what...?" Highlights if you are under 8: a big rock on the south side that kids can climb on, grass to throw ball and run far, the little waterfall, the bridge. The playground on the north side is for toddlers, too little for even our 3 year old. The north side and south side have different parking lots and routes. The walk from one end to the other is less than half a mile, but driving is from two totally different approaches. read more

I have been coming here for over 40 years;. Relaxing' walking' fishing,': Swimming and beach and climbIng structure with kids I still go often and read, draw, walk as an empty nester. Clean, close, accessable, Staff is friendly and maintain cleanliness and a feeling of safety. A beautiful modesr gem. read more

BEAUTIFUL. Felt like a hidden gem just tucked away. Really well taken care of and a great place to relax. Tons of grassy space for picnics, spikeball, walking dogs along the path (mostly paved), or working remotely lol. $5 parking in the lot as of May 2021 (was there on the weekend so maybe it's just a weekend thing?). Plenty of room for people to social distance and still enjoy this public space :) read more

Lake Temescal - Lake - Parks Near Me - Oakland, California

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I used to love going for walks around Lake Temescal...until I saw this (see attached photos). Fish attached to some hooks in the water, still alive but barely, and in the process of dying. I must say it was a terrible sight I cannot forget. Is such a thing allowed in public park? Is it good for children to see this? Its seems that fishing is out of hand at the Temescal. There are too many people fishing all around the lake every day. There probably not many fish left in that small lake. Why is something not done about this. I love this lake, but I don't want to see something like that again. read more

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999 Reviews by 9/9/9 The Lake Temescal Beach House is on our current short list as a possible wedding venue. It's part of this very nice and serene urban oasis. The building itself is also clean (inside and out) and well maintained. There is also a separate parking lot and entrance. Gayle and I really like the terraced rose garden and surrounding forest, the flagstone patio, and the view of the lake and surrounding green space. Also impressive is the Fireside room, which features a log cabin-like interior, hardwood floors, an open-beamed high ceiling, polished copper wall sconces, and a flagstone hearth and fireplace. read more

This is a great "hidden gem" in Oakland - a wonderful spot to take a walk around the lake, chat with others out for the same, bring your dog (on leash only and please pick up after them). When you get to the lake house take a walk up the stairs to a delightful little hidden waterfall. There are folks fishing that swear you can catch the (stocked) trout and catfish as well. I understand they have had some issues with toxic algae blooms so check before you allow your pet or children to get wet. Winter is the best time as it's generally not very crowded. read more

Lake Temescal - I do believe it's a Black-Crowned Night Heron - or if not it's well disguised. - Parks Near Me - Oakland, California

I can't believe I haven't been here before! We took a quick 20 minute hike all the way around the lake to check out what it has to offer. Two entrances, one on Broadway and one on Broadway Terrace. Awesome hidden little gem of a park and lake tucked back near the tunnel entrance. Swim, fish, hike in the redwoods, hang out in the park, and bbq all around the lake. Small beach and plenty of tables and bbqs everywhere. read more

Lake Temescal - Parks Near Me - Oakland, California

Perfect spot for kids catching their first fish! I love this little lake! honestly I enjoy every bits of it except for the ghetto crowd which comes ever so often. What do I do at this lake? I fish here its my get-away park it may not seem like it doesn't have fish in the lake but they stock 100% eatable trout during the winters and spring and 100% eatable catfish during the summer time! also this lake has a diverse species of fishies large mouth bass bluegill and carp and also a koy fish that someone released in the lake. Their is a fee to fish here which is 5 dollars a day permit and also you need a California Fishing licenses. So don't be surprised to get a Park police or a game warden to walk up on you and ask for your fishing licensee and day permit. Which I'm glad they are doing it. So if your around and you have a valid fishing license try it out its fun and quite relaxing. I'm considered a local Fisherman at teme and we friendly so dont be sacred to ask for help. haha also there is a fellow fisherman named Philip awesome guy to fish with. Oh and Parking is charged during the weekends after Easter Sunday and through out the summer winter times parking is free. Dogs need to be on a leash at all times. So eventually come down and enjoy this gem and please clean up after your self! keep in mind that the water is tested every other day for pollution so if you see stuff on top of the water its just algae and pollen from the pine trees. read more

Lake Temescal - my record fish i caught at temescal weighing in at 8.6 pounds - Parks Near Me - Oakland, California

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We were looking for a new fishing spot and decided to come here. The park itself is beautiful! I loved the trail and hope to do more walking there on our next trip back. We caught a few fish but released them all back. The experience in itself was awesome! We watched as someone was catching crawfish near the shore and loved checking out the wild blackberries on the trail. So for the nitty gritty If you want to go fishing it's $5 per person you also need to have a valid California fishing license. There is also a parking fee of $5 as well. We loved our trip here and will definitely be back! read more

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I came here last Saturday for a potluck with some of my friends. There are two parking lots: North and South, and each of lot have a lawn area for picnics. Make sure you know what side you are suppose to meet, because if you parked on the opposite side parking lot, you can't move your car (no in-out privilege as stated on the parking pass), and you have to walk .35 miles to the other side. Parking is $5 when staffed. There are alot of bees circling around our food Overall, great place to have a gathering, potluck or picnics. Just come early, because it was packed by 11 AM read more

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This is a quick and easy spot to get out of the Oakland urban jungle, it's even closer than going to Tilden Park, tho Tilden is much nicer. One fun thing here is you can catch crawdads! The place can get crowded on weekends, so go during the week. read more

Review only about the swimming area: it's small. You do have to pay to get in. The water stinks! There is a lot of algae in the water and the water doesn't flow so it's stuck so it's feels and smells very muddy like rotten algae. There are some ducks that walk around the lake so I'm sure they go in the water and do whatever they do in the water as well so that doesn't help. I wouldn't bring children under three years old. The water looks dirty and young kids might get sick... Why risk it! Parking lot is average size. Bathrooms close to parking lot are portable so there's no running water. The hand sanitizer bin is empty so come prepared. Definitely no changing table. Picnic areas are far way from swimming area. Swimming area is blocked off. Not coming back. Lake gets two stars because surrounding area looks really nice. read more

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This is probably my new favorite place for a quick run. Close to home, parking available, and just an overall nice park. Dude suggested we go for a run here and ever since, we've been coming back (I've even gone back without him!). I want to say the trail around the lake is a little over a mile. The trail starts at the grassy park/BBQ area, then goes to a mini beach area, then to a more open grass area, then down the stairs to a dirt trail along the lake and out to the parking lot where you started. If you run the other way, you can run up the stairs for a more intense workout. There's only a few stairs, so it's not THAT intense. And watch out the ducks! read more

In my opinion this place is overlooked. I hate that when I worked nearly ten blocks away I didn't take advantage of it. They say you have to pay like $5 to get in but every time I've been I never paid. Either way I've been here for staff retreats and most recently I came for a wedding. This is a great place to bring ur kids or workout partner. I see folks BBQ, I've seen a "mommy work out crew" yes u heard right strong ass mom's running with strollers and babies strapped to their backs. The lake is super chill and relaxing as well. read more

I have been coming to Lake Temescal since before I could walk. It has always been a fun Summer destination for my family and me. I love hiking and walking around lakes. Unfortunately with most East Bay lakes, the walk around is more than a couple miles, more than just a quick walk. Temescal is a smaller lake and a super nice, quick walk. Perfect if you don't feel like getting off your ass to walk Lake Merritt or hike Lake Chabot. You could even walk it twice. It's in the beautiful Oakland hills surrounded by wildlife and lots of trees. It's near the freeway yet still tucked away from the city. There's a nice picnic area and lawn too if you're interested in a BBQ. read more

It feels a little weird to label Temescal a "hidden gem", but considering the last time I had a BBQ here I was surprised at how few people had heard of it so I guess i fits. The Good: Temescal has never really been the go to place in Oakland. It never gets super crowded and has plenty of fresh clean grass you can lounge about on without having to worry about needing a towel. It's very family friendly with two play areas, fishing, a little sandy beach and plenty of BBQ grills. It is the same spot it was twenty years ago which if you're a long time Oakland native honestly is a little refreshing. The so-so: A few times a year you do have to pay $5 for parking on the weekends, but hey support your local parks. The beach has a $2 fee and is a wonderful place to enjoy the sun however it is a man made lake and the water quality is a bit iffy for swimming. Even with a state permit fishing is a $5 per day honor system and I don't think I've even seen someone catch a fish here. read more

A lake with a beach and a lifeguard, who would have thought? Everyone thinks of Lake Merritt when they think of lakes in Oakland, but Lake Temescal has a great deal to offer. First of all, it's a lot cleaner (to be fair, Lake Merritt is actually a tidal estuary), and has lots of shade and grassy areas not covered in bird poop. There's a nice easy walk around the lake, but you can go higher up the hillside for more of a challenge. It's also a really good workout to walk from lower in Rockridge up the hill. You can stop at Village Market on the way back! I've even seen an otter here. Go check it out. read more

I really do love this place. Such a beautiful scenery, the Laayoune hasn't been kept so well lately, maybe it's been due to the shelter in place. However, still such a peaceful place for a walking. read more

My husband and I Hosted 2 bbq's here and will be hosting more in the future. It's a great little spot with a nice view, you can hike up to a pretty waterfall and chill. You can have a dj and play loud music which I love because most parks do not allow it. This is a Great place to hold an event but if you don't pay to reserve you will have to get there super early on weekends to reserve a good spot. It fills up fast. read more

So the boo and I were going to be whisked off out of the country for Valentine's weekend, but unfortunately there were snow storms so our trip got canceled (got a full refund on plane tickets and the hotel though, which was sweet). This was devastating news to my boo, who loves to go all out on romantic ventures, especially during romantic holidays. And so, we researched and discovered this place. The place would definitely be better if we went on a sunny, with a light breeze, type of day. But it was pretty windy and rained a bit, though that worked in our favor in a few ways. First off, parking was $5 only if an attendant was posted. There were only a few cars parked, and so we drove right in for free. We walked along the lake and toward the tiny beach area, which also had a charge fee with one of those bracelets you had to wear for say, laser tag. But again, the place was abandoned and so we walked right in. I don't know how healthy this is for the ducks, but we had some stale hot dog buns we brought to feed them. Mah boo had tons of fun with that-having the ducks eat from his hands, watching the seagulls bully the ducks by stealing their bread by chasing them down and intimidating them (meanies...), etc. There were also the lifeguard stations to take pictures at, since when can you ever climb up onto one of those?? It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for some cute picture times. Btw it's all about the self-timer. There wasn't anywhere to place our camera, so we hung it off the branches of some trees nearby. When in need, improvise! read more

Great place for walkers of all ages and abilities, beautiful serene setting . A friend who lives in the area recently introduced us to this lovely park and we enjoyed a leisurely stroll around the lake and explored some of the other trails as well. the access to restrooms definitely a plus! Will return! read more

Lake Temescal - Parks Near Me - Oakland, California

Nice place to walk with the dogs or catch some afternoon sun. The lake has a path all the way around and although there is usually a number of people, it's never too crowded. The lake itself can get pretty green and murky in the summer around the edges, but it generally doesn't get so hot in this area for the smell to be overwhelming. The beach itself is sandy and pleasant (3$ for adults and 2$ children) and the water's nice in the summer. For those who don't want to drive hours to encounter a real beach (with cold California ocean water) this is the next best thing. Plus if you live in Berkeley it's right off the freeway exit and there's a paid parking lot as well as free street parking. The lake also has a large green area that's perfect for picnics and all those other things large green stretches are perfect for. read more

Lake Temescal - East side of the lake - Parks Near Me - Oakland, California

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Great spot to have a picnic and chill with friends! Some picnic tables are reservable, but most are first come, first serve. I came at around 10:30 am on a Sunday, and there were still several picnic tables available on the North side of the lake. They also have grills for BBQ. Seems like this is a popular park to host birthday parties since we saw a lot of them going on around us. I liked that there was lots of open grassy areas to play catch, frisbee, and even saw another group set up their own volleyball net. The lake is 1 mile around and good for a light hike. Parking is $5 for the lot when there is an attendant, but if you park on the street outside, it's free. read more

SWIMMERS TAKE NOTE: I LOVE walking around the Lake and looking at the birds. It's beautiful and peaceful. I give it 3 stars as a warning to swimming in the lake. I was thrilled last summer to go down to the lake after work and do laps in the fresh air a few times a week until I got pnuemonia from out of the blue. I am 52 and healthy so it was strange that I contracted it. I asked my doctor and she said it was possible to get it from bacteria in the lake. I did not realize that there was a water quality report updated weekly online. It measures e-coli and fecal matter in the water and swimming safety. UGH! I swam when it was red light, meaning dangerous!. I didn't see this information posted at the lake. Maybe it is. It should be!! Others were swimming too. I wonder if this happened to anyone else? Won't be jumping in this summer. : ( read more

A very small park with a sandy beach area, fishing area, and a hiking trail. I don't like the fees. You need to pay for Dog fee $2.00, beach fee $2.00, and also parking fee of $5.00. As a cheap Asian person, I avoided all those by parking on the street and not in the park. I also decided not to swim in the beach and just walk my dogs past the park ranger. I like the fact that the landscape changes each time you are walking because you get to view of the sandy area, then the picnic, and then the fishing area, and then the hiking trail. read more

What a stunning place. Within a stone's throw from my house, Lake Temescal offers a bit of everything if you're looking for a way to spend time having fun outdoors. Personally, I wanted to escape the work week and venture to someplace new and really, just to get some fresh air. One morning I decided to go for a jog to Lake Temescal and check it out. To get to the lake: From Keith St. turn onto Broadway and about 1/3 of a mile, you will see signs for Lake Temescal on your right. $5 gets you a spot in the parking lot, but there is also street parking if you don't have a lot of stuff to carry. There is a ranger station where you pay and the ranger is incredibly helpful. The one on duty was really cheerful; he explained things extremely well and advised me on trails well suited for trail running. There's a lovely little lake nestled between cool species of grass and native plants. There are also several docks for people to fish. I saw a gentleman going full on Monet as he produced brilliantly colored, sharp strokes on the canvas. A couple of lifeguard stands but no one on duty today. I saw swimmers as I jogged around the lake and the water looked calm and inviting. There's also a beach house (real sand) and a couple of vending machines for snacks. Oh man, do I love snacks. Picnic tables, a majority of which are first come first serve, are abundant and each picnic area comes with its own grill. I'd say every table is well spaced apart, offering more privacy if that's something you'd prefer. My advice? Get there before 11am if you want to snag a well positioned (offering views of the lake) picnic area. There's a well maintained grassy area on the southwest end near the entrance, and it is prime space for lounging, playing frisbee, etc. Dogs are allowed but they must be on a leash. Your pooch will love Lake Temescal too, it's definitely worth a visit. read more

My friend and I went to this lake yesterday, and while the lake and beach area are great, this review is for the incredibly rude man taking money for tickets and handing out wristbands. He was highly critical of everything. From the way I handed him my money, to it being too hot outside. He was unpleasent and upset that he was forced to watch other people having fun while he was stuck "roasting" in the sun. I have news for you sir, if you are unhappy with your job you don't take it out on your customers. It's not our fault youre an old man working for minimum wage. read more

Lake Temescal is a destination in the upper Rockridge district in Oakland. The park is a fraction of the Oakland Water Supply before the freeways were built. Live trains rolled passed the bath house, with a splendid waterfall at the corner of the swim area. There were tennis courts on multiple levels where the freeway is now located. There were two swimming docks in the middle of the lake. I would take the 59 from Thornhill to Lake Temescal every day as a teenager. Spent the summer at the little beach, keeping in shape (AAU swim teams), and helping the staff out when possible. In high school, many students attended photo glasses at the boathouse and other activities. It was a wonderful experience, and there are live fish, and hundreds of birds around the lake. There is no one season at Lake Temescal. Migrating birds drop in during the spring and fall. Perhaps autumn bird walks will return to Lake Temescal. read more

Wonderfully peaceful public space in Oakland. Most of the students I have worked with in West Oakland have never even been there! There are BBQs, docks to enjoy the still water, and a trail enables you to run the perimeter of the park. The trail curves into the forest and is mostly a wide dirt path. I would estimate the run to be 2 miles around. There are two ways to get into the park- the easiest being off Broadway. read more

The idea of this park is nice, however there are several things we experienced that highly disappointed us: 1) the park is nested right next to a main highway - so the constant sound of freeway traffic was not relaxing or peaceful in the least bit, b) the part area is small - so if there is a birthday party being hosted there, consider yourself part of it because it'll spill over into any area you set for yourself, and c) the parking lot is super small and it's difficult to find parking in the surrounding neighborhood. Lastly, we called to inquire about renting the beach house for a small event we want to host in a few months. We were shocked with how rude the lady was - whoever it was who picked up at the other end of option #2. She was curt, had a grumpy annoyed sounding tone and wasn't the least bit friendly. Not the type of interaction I expected to have with someone working there. She should be let go - customer service should be a priority. Just based on my conversation with her, I'd never consider renting it out. read more

Right by the 24/13 junction. Open for swimming late in the year [after Labor Day, which many of the nearby lakes aren't] and if you show up after six in the summer, there's no attendant to pay for parking/admission [which is a couple bucks otherwise]. The swim area has thick-grain sand beach bordered by a lush green lawn. There's also fishing, hiking, and two large picnic grounds in the park. read more

Good to walk. Parking in there but I didn't like a small beach is in there. The weather almost all the time is fresh but I recommend use a protection uv. read more

A great place for an open water swim. They have pretty long lap lanes if you are training for a triathlon. The water is a good temperature too and they have lifeguards. My only gripe is there is duck fecal matter all over the place. Good place for kids to hang out and get in the water as it is pretty shallow for the most part. read more

This is a hidden gym in Oakland. Although its not the cleanest park, its a great park tucked away in an urban neighborhood. The lake itself is a great natural walking trail and there are open fields for sports and games. I bbq'd at the "stream side" picnic area and there are two large grills there and enough seating for about 50 people. There was plenty of shade however it was quite a trek from the parking lot. If renting this picnic area be sure to bring a wheel barrel or a push cart to schlep your stuff. read more

One of my favorite EBRPs and fishing spots. They stock during trout season and catfish in the warmer months. Also the bass fishing is great I caught my first bass 7.5 lbs at this lake. The picnic areas are great and all the rangers are super friendly! read more

Lake Temescal - Stocked Mt Lassen trout. 8.5 pounder. Love this lake. - Parks Near Me - Oakland, California

Went to deadboi's (http://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=keXAEAqxwGZCQBxEMtxHPw) wedding that took place at The Beach House today. Really great place for a smaller (50-70 guests) wedding. The sunset was really lovely and the shade & natural surrounds were quite special. The beach house itself is in very nice condition (fresh paint, clean glass, etc.), especially the wood floor - PERFECT for discriminating dancers!! read more

It's a place to picnic. Yup I've done that before with my brother. Purchased some goodies from Genova Delicatessen, and brought a mat to lay down in the sun, and nibble on fresh mozzarella, sardines, olives, sun dried tomatoes, and a variety of pastas, and potato salad. My brother bought a sandwich that was SOOOOOOOO friggin good. (yeah, I have got to write a review for them too :P) The scenery is good. Nothing wow, but good enough. The lake is nice, the trees provide good oxygen, and dogs are allowed too! There's a path to walk on, and on the weekends, this place fills up SUPER SUPER fast. People BBQ, swim, walk, and play in the playground... just relaxing and chilling. I love the fact that it's very close to my home. I could walk there when I have the energy to do so. But I think I'll always drive, since I usually bring a mat and other supplies too. It's just a comfy setting, where most of the time, it's just a few people, and you can just take it easy, without anyone disturbing you. It's nice. read more