Tucked between the intersection of Highways 24 and 13 in Oakland, you’ll find Temescal Regional Recreation Area, one of East Bay Regional Park’s first parks. Don’t let its proximity to these freeways deter you from a visit for it offers a convenient way to swim at the beach, fish from an accessible pier and enjoy a lakeside picnic. A grassy area immediately adjacent to the beach, is firm enough to roll over in a wheelchair, and gives one the sense that you’re on the beach without the hassle of going across the sand. Accessible changing rooms are nearby.
If the beach isn’t your thing, there’s a lovely .5 mile paved trail that runs along the east shore; with places to picnic along the shore and an accessible fishing pier that’s good for viewing waterfowl.
Understandably, the park can be fairly busy during summer, especially on weekends, so don’t go expecting a quiet retreat, but plan to be surprised, as I was, to find this sweet, urban oasis in Oakland.
East Shore Trail
see access criteria for definitions
- Trailhead: Access from north or south parking lots
- Length: Less than .5 mile
- Typical Width: 4 ft. & above
- Typical Grade: Level
- Terrain: Hard
Description
On this short, yet pleasant paved trail that travels the perimeter of the eastern shore, you pass a native plant area, 10 acres of turf, and mature live oak, willow and laurel trees. An elevated trail that runs parallel to it and close to Hwy 24, offers a birds-eye view of the park. The stretch on the western shore, while more secluded, has access challenges including a steep approach at it’s south end and a set of stairs near the parking at the north end. It hugs a shaded hillside as it follows close to the water making it significantly cooler than the east shore.
Accessibility Details
The facilities listed below meet all of our access criteria unless otherwise noted.
- Beach Wheelchair: Yes
Reserve 24 hours in advance: (510) 652-1155 - Accessible Parking: Yes
North Entrance off Broadway has more accessible spaces than the South Entrance off Broadway Terrace - Accessible Restroom: Yes
- Accessible Picnic Tables: Yes
Several accessible tables are scattered throughout
Additional Information
- Hours: 5am-10pm
- Map: See here.
- Fees: Parking, Beach
- Dogs: Must be on a maximum 6-foot leash and not allowed on beach or in the lake.
- Public Transportation: AC Transit
I has worked for more than 30 years advocating for, and educating about access to outdoor recreation and tourism for people with disabilities. I hold a degree in Recreation Therapy and was a travel agent specializing in accessible travel for many years. In this capacity, and now as Associate Director at Wheelchair Traveling, I consult with the travel industry about accessibility, conducts disability awareness trainings and writes about travel and outdoor recreation. I also authored a book titled, A Wheelchair Rider's Guide: San Francisco Bay and the Nearby Coast, about accessible trails and has produced several access guides to San Francisco. My most current project is a website of accessible trails along the entire California Coast (www.wheelingcalscoast.org). My extensive experience as a wheelchair rider combined with her professional experience has provided me with in-depth knowledge about inclusive tourism and outdoor recreation.
