Publicly owned recreation spaces in California

Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve is a vibrant 61-acre park nestled amongst the trees in the heart of San Francisco, California. Owned by UCSF, this urban oasis offers over 5 miles of public multi-use trails for hikers, trail runners, cyclists, and dog walkers. Named after former San Francisco Mayor Adolph Sutro, the Reserve has a rich history and is home to a diverse array of rare and native plants, as well as various tree species. The Reserve is committed to sustainability and preservation, with ongoing maintenance efforts and a focus on habitat restoration. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Rotary Meadow, a native plant garden, and explore the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. The Sutro Stewards, in collaboration with UCSF, work to maintain and manage the trails and conservation sites within the Reserve. With a commitment to safety and sustainability, UCSF is implementing a Vegetation Management Plan to ensure the long-term health of the forest and ecosystem. Whether you're looking to explore nature, volunteer with the Sutro Stewards, or simply enjoy a peaceful escape in the city, Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve offers a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

Mission Recreation Center, located at 2450 Harrison Street in San Francisco, California, is the perfect place to stay active and healthy, rain or shine. Our indoor gymnasium offers a variety of sports such as basketball, volleyball, and indoor soccer. The fitness center is equipped with top-of-the-line equipment including treadmills, stair masters, ellipticals, a weight room, and more. Join in on San Francisco's boxing tradition, or play racquetball, handball, or table tennis. While you work out, your children can enjoy their own jungle gym area. The facility is also home to the Mission Rec Rebels AAU basketball program and offers various sports-related programs and camps throughout the year.

Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 2500 Stanley Blvd in Pleasanton, California, United States. The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking. The park is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Visitors can swim at the designated hours when lifeguards are on duty, or at their own risk outside of those times. Parking fees apply, and there are additional fees for boating, fishing permits, and bringing dogs into the park. Shadow Cliffs was originally a gravel quarry donated to the Park District in 1971, and has since been developed into a 266-acre park with an 80-acre lake. The park features facilities for persons with disabilities, accessible parking, trails, and restrooms. Beach wheelchairs are available for free to assist wheelchair users in navigating the sandy beach area. The park also has a wheelchair accessible fishing pier and interpretive pavilion.

The 100 First Privately Owned Public Open Space (POPOS) - Urban Park is a serene oasis nestled in the heart of San Francisco, California. Located at 100 1st Street, this park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, walking paths, and seating areas, visitors can relax and unwind in this beautiful outdoor space. Whether you're looking to enjoy a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or simply soak up some sunshine, this park provides the perfect setting for outdoor recreation. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of the 100 First Privately Owned Public Open Space - Urban Park today.

Whittier Narrows Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 1600 Rosemead Boulevard in South El Monte, California. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities and amenities, including bike and boat rentals provided by Wheel Fun Rentals. Visitors can explore the expansive 1500-acre park, which features lakes for boating and fishing, bike trails, the American Military Museum, and a nature center. The park is also home to the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation, which offers a wide range of recreational programs and facilities for residents and visitors. The department owns 182 parks, including natural areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and botanical gardens, as well as the largest municipal golf system in the area.

Welcome to Riverside Gardens Park, a serene oasis nestled along San Lorenzo Boulevard in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. At Riverside Gardens Park, you'll find lush green spaces, vibrant flower beds, and majestic trees that provide a picturesque setting for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor activities. Our well-maintained walking trails invite you to explore the scenic surroundings at your own pace, while our spacious lawns are perfect for playing catch, flying kites, or simply relaxing under the California sun.

Welcome to Wave Street Studios - Monterey's Premier Venue for Weddings, Events, and Live Performances Nestled on the scenic Recreation Trail above the historic Cannery Row, Wave Street Studios is Monterey's hidden gem for unforgettable weddings, dynamic events, and captivating live performances. Located at 774 Wave Street, just a stone's throw from the beautiful McAbee Beach and the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, our venue offers a unique blend of modern elegance and natural beauty.

Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is a stunning park located at 1500 Santa Barbara Street in Santa Barbara, California. Once the site of the El Mirasol Hotel, this downtown block is now home to a beautiful botanical collection featuring 75 different tree and plant species, a peaceful pond, a sensory garden with audio posts and Braille signs, a demonstration garden showcasing low water use plants, benches, walking paths, picnic areas, and a charming gazebo. This park is often referred to as the "crown jewel" of City parks. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the garden free of charge and are encouraged to join the dedicated team of volunteers who help maintain this beloved park. Every Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., volunteers of all experience levels can participate in tasks such as pruning, mulching, deadheading, and weeding under the guidance of Parks staff. Drop-in volunteers are always welcome and should meet at the big shed on the Santa Barbara Street side of the park. If you have your own hand tools and gloves, please bring them along, although a limited supply is available for use. Come and be a part of preserving this special green space in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Welcome to Reuben Ingold Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of View Park-Windsor Hills, California. Located at 4400 West Mount Vernon Drive, this passive park offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful ambiance it provides. As a cherished local landmark and tourist attraction, Reuben Ingold Park is part of the extensive network of parks managed by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation. While the park itself does not host organized programs, it serves as an ideal setting for quiet reflection, leisurely walks, and the simple enjoyment of nature. The Los Angeles County Parks system is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike, which is evident in their partnership with 560 schools across the county, providing park access to over 450,000 students. This initiative underscores the commitment to fostering community engagement and environmental education.

Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve is a park and tourist attraction located in Oakland, California, United States. The preserve is known for its unique geological features, including the prominent Round Top peak, which stands at 1,763 feet above sea level. Visitors can explore several trails throughout the preserve, including the East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail and the Volcanic Trail, which offers a self-guided tour of the area's volcanic history. The preserve was originally called Round Top Park and is one of the East Bay Regional Park District's original parks. It was later named in honor of Robert Sibley, a founding member of the District. Cattle grazing has been a part of the ecosystem in the East Bay hills for many years, helping to reduce wildfire risks and maintain natural habitats for plants and wildlife.

The Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory is a popular park and tourist attraction located on Western Canyon Road in Los Angeles, California, United States. The institution offers free exploration of the universe in the heart of Los Angeles, with live presentations, exhibits, and public telescope observing. Visitors can enjoy live shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, Tesla Coil demonstrations, and monthly public programs such as star parties and All Space Considered. The Observatory is located in Griffith Park, the largest urban-wilderness municipal park in the U.S., and offers spectacular views of Los Angeles and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Visitors can access the Observatory by public transportation, walking, biking, driving, or taking a shared-ride service. The institution also offers virtual programs and events, including live online broadcasts of celestial events like the upcoming total solar eclipse in 2024. Griffith Observatory is owned and operated by the City of Los Angeles, Department of Recreation and Parks, and is supported by the Griffith Observatory Foundation. Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit in advance, as roads and parking can get busy.

Welcome to Studio Cafe, your ultimate destination for a vibrant blend of culture, cuisine, and community in the heart of Monterey. Nestled at 774 Wave Street, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium and McAbee Beach, our venue is a multi-faceted gem designed to cater to a variety of experiences. At Studio Cafe, we pride ourselves on being more than just a bar and cafe. We are Monterey's premier venue for weddings, events, and live music. Our space transforms effortlessly from an independent broadcast studio to a lively concert hall, hosting an array of talented musicians and performers. Enjoy unforgettable performances from renowned artists like pianist Javier Santiago, drummer Justin Brown, and bassist Luca Alemanno, among others. Our stage is graced with the quick wit of comedians and the soulful sounds of jazz ensembles, providing a fresh and fun atmosphere for all.

Welcome to Channel View Park, a serene and picturesque green space nestled in the heart of Long Beach, California. Located at 6332 East 5th Street, this charming 5.28-acre park stretches along the west bank of the Los Cerritos Channel, extending from Loynes Drive to 7th Street. Perfect for leisurely strolls and invigorating jogs, Channel View Park offers a peaceful retreat with its lush turf, mature trees, and well-maintained walking path. Originally acquired as an extension of Palo Verde Avenue in the early 1960s, the park has since been transformed into a beloved community space. In the early 1980s, a bicycle overpass was added across 7th Street, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for cyclists. More recently, in November 2020, a new playground was unveiled, thanks to the advocacy of the University Park Estates Neighborhood and the generous support of the Alamitos Energy Center.

Contra Loma Regional Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 1200 Frederickson Lane in Antioch, California, United States. The park offers a variety of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy, including an 80-acre reservoir for year-round fishing, a swim lagoon with lifeguards during the summer, hiking and biking trails, and nature study opportunities. The park is open throughout the year with varying hours of operation, and there is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. Boating, kayaking, and sailing are also allowed at the park, with fees for these activities. Contra Loma has wheelchair accessible facilities, including restrooms, drinking fountains, and parking. The park also has reservable group picnic areas and a sandy beach with restrooms and a concession stand at the swim lagoon. Swimming is only permitted in the lagoon during the summer when lifeguards are on duty, and there is a beach access fee. Visitors can also launch their own boats at the park, with fees for boat launch.

Del Aire Park, located at 12601 South Isis Avenue in Hawthorne, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction that offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park is part of the LA County Parks program, which partners with schools to provide access to over 450,000 students across Los Angeles County. The County of Los Angeles Underwater Unit also operates educational services and experience programs at Del Aire Park, offering training for SCUBA divers, freedivers, and dive leaders. The park has a rich history, with operations and facilities previously managed by the Parks Division and the Department of Recreation, Camps, and Playgrounds before merging into the Department of Parks and Recreation in 1944.

Whisman Park is a beautiful green space located in Mountain View, California, United States. This park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush trees, grassy fields, and charming walking paths, Whisman Park is the perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or enjoy a game of frisbee with friends, Whisman Park has something for everyone to enjoy. Visit this serene oasis in the heart of Silicon Valley and experience the beauty of nature right in your own backyard.

Culver City Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 9910 Jefferson Boulevard in Culver City, California, United States. This park is open from dawn to dusk and offers various outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Some areas, such as sports fields, have night lighting and may be open later. The park also features facilities such as The Boneyard Dog Park and the Skate Park, each with their own specified hours of operation. Additionally, park restrooms are available from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For any questions regarding park maintenance, visitors can contact (310) 253-6470. Come and explore all that Culver City Park has to offer!

Hart Park, located at 24151 Newhall Avenue in Santa Clarita, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park managed by the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities and educational programs for visitors of all ages. One of the highlights of Hart Park is the partnership with 560 schools in Los Angeles County, providing access to over 450,000 students. The park also boasts the County of Los Angeles Underwater Unit, offering training and educational services for SCUBA divers, freedivers, and dive leaders.

El Parque De La Raza De Paz Disc Golf Course is a beautiful and challenging disc golf course located at 855 Coyote Road in San Jose, California. The course offers a peaceful and scenic setting for players of all skill levels to enjoy the sport of disc golf. With a variety of obstacles and terrain, including trees, hills, and water hazards, players can test their skills and improve their game. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the game or a seasoned pro seeking a new challenge, El Parque De La Raza De Paz Disc Golf Course has something for everyone. Come visit us and experience the excitement of disc golf in a peaceful and inclusive environment.

May Nissen Park is a beautiful 12.2 acre community park located at 685 Rincon Avenue in Livermore, California. Named after the longtime Livermore teacher, May Nissen, this park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park was renovated in 2019 and now features the May Nissen Swim Center, group picnic reservation areas, basketball courts, restroom building, horseshoe pits, multi-use sports field, tennis courts, pickleball courts, baseball/softball field, dog park, and a preschool. The baseball/softball field was renovated in 2009 and renamed the Randy Johnson Junior Giants Field in honor of hometown hero, Randy Johnson, a Hall of Famer and five-time winner of the Cy Young award. Reservations are available for Group Picnic Site Rentals, where visitors can secure a specific location and date for their event. The park is also home to a dog park, one of seven throughout Livermore, each with its own unique design within an enclosed area.

Rimgrove Park is a beautiful tourist attraction located at 747 Rimgrove Drive in La Puente, California, United States. This park is part of the LA County Parks system, which partners with over 560 schools to provide access to over 450,000 students across Los Angeles County. The park offers a variety of educational services and experience programs, including SCUBA diving and freediving training. With a long and proud history, the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation is dedicated to meeting the recreational needs of residents and visitors from all over the world. The department owns 182 parks, including natural areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural venues such as the Hollywood Bowl. Creative and innovative recreational programming ensures there is something for every member of the family to enjoy. The Department is committed to providing social, cultural, and recreational opportunities for all to enjoy, with support from various organizations and agencies. Visit Rimgrove Park for a fun and educational experience in the heart of Los Angeles County.

Rowland Heights Park, located on Banida Avenue in Rowland Heights, California, is a popular tourist attraction and outdoor recreational facility. This park is part of the LA County Parks partnership with schools, providing access to over 450,000 students across Los Angeles County. The County of Los Angeles Underwater Unit also offers educational services for SCUBA divers and dive leaders. The history of the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation dates back to the merger of the Parks Division and the Department of Recreation, Camps, and Playgrounds in 1944. Today, the department owns 182 parks, including natural areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural venues like the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre and the Hollywood Bowl. The park offers a variety of recreational programs and events for the whole family to enjoy.

San Angelo Park, located at 245 South San Angelo Avenue in La Puente, California, is a beautiful tourist attraction that is part of the LA County Parks system. This park is not just a recreational area, but also a hub for educational programs and experiences. The County of Los Angeles Underwater Unit provides training and educational services for SCUBA divers, freedivers, and dive leaders. The history of the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation is long and proud, dating back to the merger of the Parks Division and the Department of Recreation, Camps, and Playgrounds in 1944. Since then, the department has been dedicated to meeting the recreational needs of residents and visitors through programming, facilities, land acquisition, and environmental stewardship.

Welcome to the East Rancho Dominguez Library, a cornerstone of community learning and engagement located at 4420 East Rose Street, East Compton, California. Originally opened as the East Compton Library in 1952, this vibrant institution has grown significantly over the decades, moving into its current state-of-the-art facility in 2012. Our library is a proud recipient of the LEED Platinum certification, featuring eco-friendly designs such as photovoltaic solar panels, and offers a welcoming space for all ages with a meeting room, group study room, and an expansive children’s area. As part of the Los Angeles County Library system, we provide a wide range of resources and programs to support the educational and recreational needs of our community. Our collection includes thousands of books, eBooks, audiobooks, and more, available for checkout with your LA County Library card. We also offer unique services such as Kindle Paperwhite lending, laptops for use within the library, and access to digital media platforms for streaming and downloading content.

Welcome to the Arcata Community Center, your premier venue for hosting a wide range of events in the heart of Arcata, California. Conveniently located at 321 Doctor Martin Luther King Junior Parkway, our spacious facility offers a central location easily accessible from Highway 101, and is adjacent to the Sports Complex and HealthSPORT. Our 8,800 square foot multipurpose room is designed to accommodate events of all sizes, from grand concerts to intimate wedding receptions. With a variety of rooms and flexible options, the Arcata Community Center is perfect for any occasion.

Carl Larsen Playground is a popular tourist attraction located at 850 Vicente Street in San Francisco, California, United States. This friendly neighborhood park offers a variety of amenities including a baseball diamond, tennis court, basketball court, and playground for visitors to enjoy. The indoor pool, named after local swimming instructor Charlie Sava, has been recently remodeled for added convenience. The land for the playground was generously donated by Carl Larsen in 1926, who previously owned a chicken ranch on the site. Visitors can also report any maintenance or vandalism issues at the playground by calling 311 or visiting the website. Come and explore the outdoor fun at Carl Larsen Playground in the Sunset neighborhood of San Francisco.

Brooks Park, located at 373 Ramsell Street in San Francisco, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Farallones, and Mt. Tamalpais. Once home to a variety of wildlife such as grizzly bears, elk, and foxes, the park still has native plants that were once used by Native Americans. The park has a rich history, with the land originally part of Rancho San Miguel owned by Jose de Jesus Noe. The Brooks family purchased a half-acre site on the hilltop in the 1920s, and Mrs. Brooks was known for her organic gardening practices. After falling into disrepair, the Friends of Brooks Park formed in 1987 to revitalize the park, leading to the acquisition of surrounding land and the enlargement of the park. Today, the park features a community garden, native plant restoration, and environmental education programs. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and learn about the park's history and conservation efforts. To report any maintenance issues or vandalism, visitors can call 311 or visit the park's website.

Welcome to Wiseburn Walking Path, a serene and picturesque park located on West 135th Street in Hawthorne, California. As a passive park, Wiseburn Walking Path offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing the perfect setting for leisurely walks, peaceful reflection, and connecting with nature. While this park does not offer structured programs, it is part of a broader initiative by the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation to enhance park access across the region. Through partnerships with 560 schools, over 450,000 students in Los Angeles County can enjoy the benefits of outdoor spaces like Wiseburn Walking Path.

Pepperbrook Park, located at 1701 Countrywood Avenue in Hacienda Heights, California, is a serene and picturesque passive park. While it does not offer specific programs, it provides a tranquil escape for visitors to enjoy nature and relax. The park is part of the LA County Parks system, which partners with over 560 schools to provide park access to over 450,000 students across Los Angeles County. The County of Los Angeles Underwater Unit also maintains educational services and experience programs at Pepperbrook Park, offering training for SCUBA divers, freedivers, and dive leaders. The park is part of the rich history of the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation, which has been meeting the recreational needs of residents and visitors for many years.

Alma Hofman Park is a beautiful park located at 5201 Benito Street in Montclair, California, United States. This park is one of 11 parks maintained by Public Works personnel, covering over 76 acres of owned and leased parkland. Alma Hofman Park offers something for everyone to enjoy. One unique feature of the park is the Chino Basin Conservation District's 2-acre demonstration garden located at 4594 San Bernardino Street. This garden is dedicated to educating the public about water-efficient landscaping, with five different garden styles showcased including Southwestern, Woodland, High Desert, Riparian, and Ornamental.