Temescal Regional Recreation Area is a nice public park on the north side of Oakland, near the city's border with Berkeley. It's one of over 70 parks in the East Bay Regional Park District. Of those 70+ parks, this is one of the original three, opened in 1936.
The highlight of this park is Lake Temescal, a 13-acre lake with a beach and trails all around. Outside of winter, swimming is allowed. Paddle boards, kayaks, and other watercraft aren't allowed. Neither are remote-controlled boats and drones.
Fishing is allowed. My sister and nieces fish on the docks here. My nieces also play soccer here. My brother-in-law is one of the coaches. There are two large grass lawn areas on either end of the park, north and south. Those are where the entrances and parking lots are. The bigger lawn and parking lot are on the north side.
During my visit on a Thursday evening, the park was comfortably quiet. There was plenty of free parking in the north lot. I read that parking in this lot is not always free. The park was clean and pleasant. It felt safe, though there wasn't a park official in sight. I did see Oakland Police in the parking lot (looked like a couple different officers stopped for a brief meetup).
Lake Temescal is picturesque, especially from the elevated north trail (Dam Trail). The lake is what really sets this park apart from others. The terrain in this area, Upper Rockridge, is hilly and so is the park. Not far from the high population density of Oakland to the east and south, this is a hidden retreat. It's tucked away next to where State Routes 24 and 13 interchange (and next to a PG&E substation).
There are picnic tables located throughout the park. Restrooms are located on the north and south ends, near the entrances and parking lots, as well as at the Beach House. Changing rooms are also available at the Beach House.
If you're in the North Oakland, South Berkeley, Piedmont areas, Temescal Regional Recreation Area is worth checking out. It's good for the whole family. read more