Roberts Regional Recreation Area

Hidden among majestic hills, Roberts Regional Recreation Area is a true natural oasis spanning approximately 33 hectares. This popular destination in Oakland is home to fragrant second-growth redwood groves. Located in California, USA, the park is a favorite space for those seeking harmony with nature without traveling far from the city.

This park stands out for its accessibility and excellent infrastructure for family vacations. It features one of the most well-designed play areas in the region, as well as the unique Old Growth Redwood Heritage Viewing Deck, which tells the story of the ancient forests. It’s not just a forest, but a modern recreation zone where the scent of pine needles mixes with an atmosphere of carefree relaxation.

The site gains special significance from its connection to maritime history and the protection of natural resources. Within the park, you can find historical markers recalling the times when the giant trees here served as beacons for ships in the San Francisco Bay. Today, it is a cozy corner featuring swimming pools, sports fields, and shaded walking trails.

To inquire about booking picnic areas or pool operations, you can contact the administration directly. Up-to-date information is also regularly updated on the official East Bay Regional Park District resource. We recommend checking for news before your visit, especially on holidays.

The main magnet for families here is the massive "Barrier Free" playground, which is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible. Children will love the many slides, tunnels, and climbing structures, while educational stations with maps and logic games turn playtime into an engaging learning experience. Nearby are spacious fields where you can play baseball or host a friendly match on the sand volleyball court.

Water enthusiasts should visit the 25-yard heated pool. It is open during the summer season (from late April through September) and is a great way to cool off after a walk in the woods. For those who prefer tranquility, there are numerous picnic areas under the canopy of giant trees, equipped with comfortable tables and benches.

Don't forget to take a walk along the Roberts Ridge and West Ridge Trails. During your hike, you can see a massive ancient redwood stump and visit the viewing deck with an exhibit dedicated to the redwood heritage. In the summer, the local amphitheater sometimes hosts cultural events, such as Shakespeare in the Park performances, which add a special charm to your visit.

The park is located at 10570 Skyline Blvd in the city's scenic hills. The easiest way to get here is by private or rental car, following CA-13 (Skyline Boulevard). The drive from the city center takes about 20–30 minutes, and there is convenient parking right at the entrance to the redwood grove.

If you prefer public transportation, you can use the AC Transit bus network, which stops on Skyline Blvd; however, a short walk is required after getting off the bus. Given the hilly terrain, a car or taxi is the most comfortable option for families with small children or heavy picnic gear.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are trails connecting this site to neighboring natural areas, such as Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park. Experienced cyclists and hikers often include this area in their routes through the East Bay hills.

The history of this land is inextricably linked to the rapid development of California during the Gold Rush era. In the mid-19th century, the giant ancient redwoods that had grown here for millennia were almost entirely logged to build the booming cities of San Francisco and Oakland. Today's forest is a majestic second generation of trees that have grown over more than a century and a half.

Interestingly, in the early 1800s, two of the tallest trees in this area served as vital navigational landmarks for sailors. They helped ships maneuver in the San Francisco Bay to avoid hitting the dangerous submerged Blossom Rock. Today, a historical plaque for California Historical Landmark #962 marks the site of these "Navigation Trees."

The park itself officially opened to the public in 1952. It was named in honor of Thomas J. "Tommy" Roberts, a prominent public figure who dedicated 24 years of his life to serving on the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors. His contribution to preserving the region's natural wealth is hard to overstate, as he continued his service until his death at the age of 95.

In 2018, another important milestone occurred: the opening of the modern Old Growth Redwood Heritage Viewing Deck. Created in partnership with the Save the Redwoods League, this project allows visitors to literally touch history through an interpretive exhibit located next to a massive preserved stump of an ancient giant.

To leisurely enjoy the forest atmosphere and have a short break, most visitors need about 1 to 2 hours. This is enough time to walk the trails, take beautiful photos at the viewing deck, and stop by the playground with children.

If you are planning a full family day out with a picnic, a visit to the seasonal pool, and a long hike along the Roberts Ridge and West Ridge trails, you should budget 3–5 hours. This place is perfect for spending half a day completely disconnected from the city noise.

The park is welcoming to visitors daily, seven days a week. Standard operating hours are 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM every day, from Monday to Sunday. This allows guests to plan both morning jogs in the shade of the trees and cozy evening picnics at sunset.

Please note that the seasonal pool operates on a separate schedule—typically from late April to mid-September. Before your trip during this time, it is advisable to check the pool complex's specific hours on the official park district website.

Oakland and its surroundings offer many interesting places to visit after a walk in the fresh air. Exploring attractions within a ten to fifteen-kilometer radius will allow you to better feel the atmosphere of the Bay Area and learn more about the region's culture and history.

You can head to scenic Lake Merritt, visit historical buildings, or check out the Berkeley campuses located nearby. Below is a list of interesting sites in the vicinity of the park: