TOP 30 Best Outdoor recreational spaces in California

The Arrillaga Outdoor Education and Recreation Center, located at 285 Santa Teresa Street in Stanford, California, is a welcoming and inclusive space for students, staff, faculty, and affiliates of Stanford University. Since 2006, Stanford Recreation and Wellness has provided an inspiring environment for individuals to engage in various recreational activities. The center offers a range of programs and facilities, including recreational classes, aquatics classes, group fitness passes, and more. Additionally, the center provides updates on program registration, facility closures, and important information through their mobile app. Face coverings are no longer required but are strongly recommended on-site, regardless of vaccination status. Before entering the AOERC, ACSR, and SRWC for the first time, visitors must complete a one-time COVID Facility Access Waiver. Please note that certain areas, such as the Avery Rec Pool and West Campus courts, may have temporary closures for events or maintenance. For more information and updates, visit the Arrillaga Outdoor Education and Recreation Center in Stanford.

The Bressi Ranch Recreation Center, located at 6276 Arbor Rose Drive in Carlsbad, California, is a luxurious community center designed with a resort-like atmosphere. The center, known as The Village Club, features a stunning Riviera-style pool deck complete with an Olympic-sized lap pool, rejuvenating spa, and wading pool with beach entry for children. Outdoor fireplaces and convenient barbecue areas create the perfect setting for social gatherings with friends and neighbors. The well-appointed great room and spacious kitchen make The Village Club an ideal location for hosting social events, community gatherings, and private parties.

Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District is a vibrant community space located at 147 Gregory Lane in Pleasant Hill, California. This park district offers a wide range of recreational activities and programs for all ages, including sports leagues, fitness classes, art workshops, and special events. With beautifully landscaped grounds and modern facilities, visitors can enjoy picnics, playgrounds, walking trails, and more. Whether you're looking to stay active or simply relax in nature, Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District is the perfect destination for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Crystal Springs Cross Country Course Open Space is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 2600 Hallmark Drive in Belmont, California, United States. This sprawling open space offers stunning views, lush greenery, and a serene atmosphere perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, jogging, or simply relaxing in this peaceful oasis. The well-maintained cross country course provides a challenging terrain for runners and a unique experience for spectators. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline-pumping workout, Crystal Springs Cross Country Course Open Space has something for everyone to enjoy.

Wilacre Park, Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority is a beautiful park located at 3431 Fryman Road in Los Angeles, California. This institution offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery and stunning mountain views. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and plenty of parking for convenience. This park is a popular tourist attraction, drawing nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts from near and far. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or a challenging hike, Wilacre Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Welcome to Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail Parking, your convenient and secure parking solution located in the heart of Monterey, California. Situated at an ideal location near the scenic Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail, our parking facility offers easy access to one of the most beautiful coastal paths in the United States. Whether you're here to enjoy a leisurely bike ride, a picturesque walk, or simply to soak in the stunning ocean views, our parking area provides a hassle-free experience for both locals and visitors alike. Our facility is designed with your convenience in mind, offering ample parking spaces that accommodate various vehicle sizes. We prioritize safety and accessibility, ensuring that your vehicle is secure while you explore the surrounding attractions. With our friendly staff available to assist you, you can rest assured knowing that your parking needs are well taken care of.

Welcome to the Samoa Dunes Recreation Area in Samoa, California, United States. This 300 acre park offers a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, surfing, fishing, beachcombing, picnicking, and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy off-highway vehicle (OHV) use in designated areas. It is important to respect the rights of other visitors and be aware of OHV riding areas when exploring the park. There are no seasonal restrictions or fees for recreation use at Samoa Dunes. Facilities include an unloading ramp, restroom, tables, cooking grills, and a scenic overlook. Riders have access to 140 acres of open terrain with trails, a one-way track, a 4x4 rock crawling course, and the beach strand. The Eureka Dunes area, extending about 1 mile north of the park, is also open to OHV use.

Monte Rio Recreation & Park District is a scenic park located in Monte Rio, California, United States. Situated at 20488 California 116, this institution offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. From picnicking and hiking to swimming and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful outdoor space. With its lush greenery, stunning views, and peaceful atmosphere, Monte Rio Recreation & Park District is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this wonderful park in the heart of California.

Healdsburg Recreation Park is a beautiful park located on Piper Street in Healdsburg, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From playgrounds and picnic areas to sports fields and walking paths, there is something for everyone to appreciate at Healdsburg Recreation Park. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or get active with a game of basketball or soccer, this park has it all. Come visit Healdsburg Recreation Park and experience the natural beauty and fun-filled activities that it has to offer.

Marinwood Open Space is a picturesque park located in San Rafael, California, United States. This beautiful oasis offers visitors the chance to explore nature and enjoy the great outdoors. With its lush greenery, rolling hills, and scenic views, Marinwood Open Space is a popular tourist attraction for hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, hike, or simply relax in a peaceful setting, Marinwood Open Space is the perfect destination for a day of fun and relaxation.

Starr King Open Space is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 1215 Carolina Street in San Francisco, California, United States. The park spans approximately 3.5 acres and offers stunning views of the hills to the west and the Golden Gate Bridge on clear days. The institution regularly hosts volunteer stewardship days where community members can come together to help maintain the park. The next volunteer day is scheduled for Saturday, April 13th from 9:30am to 12:30pm. Additionally, there will be an annual meeting and board election coming up soon.

La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve is a stunning natural park located in Redwood City, California, United States. This picturesque preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the beauty of the surrounding landscape, including lush forests, rolling hills, and a tranquil creek. With an array of hiking trails and picnic areas, it is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day out, La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve is sure to impress with its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife.

The Upper Noe Recreation Center, located at 295 Day Street in San Francisco, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction in the vibrant Noe Valley neighborhood. This bustling hub features a recreation center and playground, making it the perfect spot for families with young children. Visitors can also enjoy a fenced dog run, tennis courts, basketball courts, indoor gym, auditorium, baseball diamond, picnic area, patio, and multipurpose field. The facility offers a variety of programs, including tot classes, after-school programs, and dance classes for seniors. Whether you're looking to get active or simply relax in a beautiful outdoor setting, the Upper Noe Recreation Center has something for everyone. If you notice any maintenance or vandalism issues, you can report them by calling 311 or clicking the link provided.

Temescal Regional Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 6500 Broadway in Oakland, California, United States. The park is open between 5am and 10pm, with gate hours from 8am to 10pm. Park curfew is from 10pm to 5am. Swim hours and fees vary depending on the day. Parking is available for $5 per vehicle, with additional fees for buses and dogs. The park offers various amenities such as accessible drinking fountains, barbeques, and wheelchair accessible trails. The historic Beach House facility is available for events and weddings, offering a panoramic view of Lake Temescal. Fishing and picnicking are popular activities at the park, with designated areas for swimming. The park has a rich history, originally constructed as a storage lake for drinking water in 1936. Visit Temescal Regional Recreation Area for a relaxing day in nature.

(Entrance) King Estate Open Space is a beautiful park located in Oakland, California, United States. Spread across 8198-8000 McCormick Avenue, this open space offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can enjoy lush greenery, walking trails, and scenic views of the surrounding area. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax in nature, this park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with the outdoors.

Benicia State Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 1 State Park Road in Benicia, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy 2 1/2 miles of road and bike paths for cycling, running, walking, horseback riding, and roller skating. Picnicking, bird watching, and fishing are also popular activities at the park. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. The marshland area on Dillon’s Point is a favorite spot for fishing. A parking fee is required for visitors. Three "Enroute" campsites are available for overnight stays on a first-come, first-served basis, limited to motorhomes or vehicles with trailers that are fully self-contained. Tents are not allowed. It is prohibited to collect or destroy anything in the park, including mushrooms. Online reservations are not available for this park. The weather in the area can be changeable, so layered clothing is recommended. To reach the park, take the Columbus Parkway exit on I-780, 1.5 miles west of the outskirts of Benicia. Latitude/Longitude: 38.0780/ -122.1926.

Lime Ridge Open Space is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek, California. This expansive open space offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area with miles of hiking and biking trails, lush greenery, and scenic views. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park or challenge yourself with a hike up the ridge, Lime Ridge Open Space is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of California.

Five Canyons Open Space in Castro Valley, California, is a stunning 300-acre park with five miles of trails. This open space is a crucial part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail, which encircles the San Francisco Bay Region. The trail system connects to Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area to the north and Don Castro Regional Recreation Area to the west, providing access to local schools and future connections to nearby parklands and preserves. Visitors can access the Five Canyons trail system via the Chabot-to-Garin Regional Trail, with parking available near Ridge Trail Park and Five Canyons Park. The park offers loop trails through shady canyons, scenic ridgelines, and wildlife habitats, providing a peaceful escape for hikers and bikers. Please note that the park currently does not have wheelchair accessible facilities. For more information, contact the park office at Don Castro or visit the East Bay Regional Parks website.

Dublin Hills Regional Open Space Preserve is a 654-acre park located in Dublin, California. The park offers a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, including a segment of the Calaveras Ridge Regional Trail. The park is home to diverse plant communities, including California annual grassland, oak-bay woodlands, and shrublands. Wildlife such as Cooper's hawks, red-tailed hawks, and golden eagles can be spotted in the area. Wetland habitats in the park provide a source of food and water for wildlife, including amphibians and migratory shorebirds. The park is open daily from 8am to 4:30pm (hours vary seasonally) and has a curfew from 10pm to 5am. Visitors can access the park from Dublin Boulevard and Marshall Canyon Drive. Public WiFi is not available, but visitors can check for cell phone coverage from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. For more information, contact the park at (510) 544-3030 or toll-free at 1-888-EBPARKS.

South Hills Open Space is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 456 Stoneridge Drive in San Luis Obispo, California, United States. This stunning open space offers visitors a chance to explore miles of scenic hiking trails, lush greenery, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature walk, a challenging hike, or a spot to have a picnic with family and friends, South Hills Open Space has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in San Luis Obispo.

Tarragona Open Space is a beautiful park located at 635 North San Marcos Road in Goleta, California. This peaceful and scenic outdoor space offers a serene environment for visitors to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. With lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas, Tarragona Open Space is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or a quiet moment of reflection. Whether you're looking to enjoy a sunny day outdoors or simply escape the hustle and bustle of city life, this park provides a tranquil retreat for all who visit.

Aidan's Place at Westwood Recreation Center is a popular tourist attraction located at 1350 South Sepulveda Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. This institution offers a variety of recreational activities and facilities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. With operating hours from Monday to Friday until 10:00 p.m., Saturdays until 6:00 p.m., and Sundays until 5:00 p.m., Aidan's Place is a great destination for a fun day out with family and friends.

Rustic Canyon Recreation Center is a community hub located at 601 Latimer Road in Santa Monica, California. This institution offers a wide range of recreational activities and facilities for residents and visitors to enjoy. With operating hours from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm Monday through Thursday, and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, the center provides ample opportunities for individuals of all ages to engage in sports, fitness classes, and other leisure activities. Please note that the center is closed on Sundays for permits only. Come and explore all that Rustic Canyon Recreation Center has to offer!

Colinas Park Open Space is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 23361 Trabuco Road in Mission Viejo, California. This beautiful open space offers visitors a serene and relaxing environment to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. With sprawling green spaces, walking trails, and scenic views, Colinas Park Open Space is the perfect destination for picnics, leisurely strolls, and birdwatching. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life or simply want to explore the natural beauty of Southern California, Colinas Park Open Space is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Brookfield Park, part of the Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District, is a picturesque park located at 35088 Pourroy Road in Winchester, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and plenty of recreational activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, play sports, or simply relax in nature, Brookfield Park is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun.

Carlsbad Lagoon Recreation Area is a popular tourist attraction located at 4215 Harrison Street in Carlsbad, California. This stunning waterfront destination offers a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Visitors can also relax on the sandy beach or enjoy a picnic with beautiful views of the lagoon. The recreation area is perfect for families, friends, and solo travelers looking for a fun and relaxing day by the water. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to unwind, Carlsbad Lagoon Recreation Area is the perfect place to escape and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Heroes Park, located within the Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District in Murrieta, California, is a popular tourist attraction and recreational destination. The park is situated at 35242 Briggs Road and offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. Please note that during and after rain, the grass parks within Heroes Park will be locked until they have dried to protect the turf. Park inspectors will assess the conditions and determine when they can be reopened for normal use. However, the DG park and two nature parks will typically remain open for use during these times.

Dictionary Hill Open Space Preserve is a picturesque park located in Spring Valley, California, United States. This tranquil open space preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With its rolling hills, lush vegetation, and stunning views, Dictionary Hill Open Space Preserve is a perfect destination for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature and experience a sense of peace and tranquility while exploring this hidden gem in the heart of Spring Valley. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to connect with nature, Dictionary Hill Open Space Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Mission Oaks Recreation & Park District, located at 3344 Mission Avenue in Carmichael, California, is a local government office and park dedicated to providing accessible facilities and programs for the community. We rely on the support of local businesses and individuals to sponsor our events and activities. Our commitment to accessibility extends to our website, which is designed to be compatible with screen reading software and meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. We regularly scan our website for compliance and welcome feedback to address any issues promptly. Our goal is to ensure that all members of the public can fully utilize and enjoy the resources and opportunities offered by Mission Oaks Recreation & Park District.

Prairie City State Vehicle Recreation Area (SVRA) is a park located at 13300 White Rock Road in Rancho Cordova, California. This area offers off-highway vehicle enthusiasts a variety of terrain and trails for motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, and 4-wheel drive vehicles. The park is situated at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills, providing a mix of flat grasslands, rolling hills with oak trees, and historic mine tailings. Prairie City SVRA takes its name from a gold rush community that was once located nearby. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds like golden eagles and deer. The park has a rich history, with remnants of its space-age past still visible today. Prairie City SVRA is committed to sustainable land management, with ongoing projects to stabilize eroded areas and provide habitat for wildlife. The park also features an Environmental Training Center and regularly holds workshops and events. Visitors can enjoy a range of recreational activities while supporting conservation efforts in this unique outdoor space.