NEWS FROM EAST BAY REGIONAL PARKS | |
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Spring in East Bay Regional Parks
A MESSAGE FROM GENERAL MANAGER SABRINA LANDRETH
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Spring is a great time to get outdoors in your East Bay Regional Parks. Hillsides and meadows are bursting with life, vibrant colors, and one of spring’s greatest gifts—wildflowers—on full display! Each year, from March to early May, a rich diversity of wildflowers bloom throughout the East Bay.
These natural wonders can be found throughout the East Bay Regional Parks, from rolling hills to serene forests. Hundreds of wildflower species can be viewed along the trails, including California poppies, California goldfields, and lupines.
Some great East Bay Regional Parks to see wildflowers include Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve, Ohlone Wilderness Regional Preserve, and Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, among others. To learn more about where to find wildflowers, visit the Wildflowers In Your Parks webpage.
Many parks also offer naturalist-led programs where visitors can experience wildflowers up close. To find out when programs are scheduled, visit the East Bay Regional Parks Activities Calendar at ebparks.org/calendar and search for “wildflowers.”
Spring and its wildflowers are a testament to the awesome power of nature. They are also a reminder to us all to appreciate nature and help keep it safe and clean. When visiting your Regional Parks, remember to leave flowers untouched for wildlife, pollinators, and other visitors to enjoy—take only pictures and leave only footprints.
Enjoy spring in your Regional Parks!
| Reducing Wildfire Risks in the East Bay Regional Park District | Fuels reduction work is currently being done across a wide range of locations in the East Bay Regional Park District. The largest project in Northern California focused on eucalyptus is taking place at Anthony Chabot Regional Park, a 667-acre fuels reduction project to thin and remove hazardous trees and vegetation. Watch Reducing Wildfire Risks in the East Bay Regional Park District. | |
Lifeguards Wanted!
Lifeguard Applications Accepted through Mar. 31
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Does working outdoors in a Park District swim facility and serving the community sound like a great summer job?
Open-water lifeguards have the unique opportunity to protect lives in a variety of environments, including pools, lagoons, lakes, and the bay. Lifeguard Services provides high-quality lifeguards for recreational swimming, aquatic special events, and aquatic programs at 15 swimming areas. Apply now to be part of the East Bay Regional Parks lifeguard team for summer 2025!
Requirements:
• Must pass swim/physical test.
• Must be age 16 or older by Apr. 26, 2025.
• All applicants are required to complete a physical agility swim test, with tests being offered beginning mid-March.
• Paid training—starting wage $21.83.
Details regarding testing locations, dates, and times: eblifeguard.org/job.
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Celebrate Women's History Month | March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the women who have shaped, protected, and championed the East Bay Regional Parks, nature, and the environment. From the pioneers who laid the foundation to the visionaries leading the way forward, their dedication and passion inspire us all. | Don't Miss the Virtual Job Fair: Saturday, Mar. 1, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | |
The East Bay Regional Park District has a wide variety of opportunities for youth, young adults, and students. The Virtual Job Fair is designed for applicants ages 15–24, although the minimum age requirement for most jobs is 16 years old. Resumé and interview tips provided. Pre-registration highly recommended.
Saturday, Mar. 1, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
More info | Zoom registration
| Borel Agricultural Park Survey | The East Bay Regional Park District is conducting a survey to gather input about the future Borel agricultural park in Danville, the first step in the public engagement process. Share your thoughts on what activities, facilities, and amenities you might like to see on the 10 acres that will be transformed into a public park. Additional outreach events will be scheduled in the coming months. Project Survey | Project Webpage | Park District Police Solve 35-Year-Old Cold Case | The East Bay Regional Park District Police Department held a press conference on Feb. 19 to announce that, using DNA evidence, they had conclusively identified the murderer in a 35-year-old case that took place in Tilden Regional Park. Press Release | Press Conference Video | |
Docent Training at Coyote Hills: Saturday, Mar. 1 & 8 | |
Are you interested in sharing the natural and cultural history of Coyote Hills with visitors of all ages? Learn about the park's history, diverse ecosystems and wildlife, and the Ohlone Peoples who have practiced their culture in this place since time immemorial and to this day.
Volunteers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to engage visitors and promote conservation efforts through time in the classroom and outdoors. Whether you're passionate about nature, history, or community engagement, this program provides a rewarding opportunity to connect with our park and visitors.
Trainees must attend both sessions (Mar. 1 and 8). Open to individuals 18 years and older. Pre-registration is required. To receive an application, email docents.coyotehills@ebparks.org.
| All Abilities Day at Big Break: Tuesday, Mar. 4 | Explore nature at your own pace and in your own way at Big Break’s All Abilities Day on Tuesday, Mar. 4, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This free drop-in program is inclusive, offering something for people of all abilities. Travel along paved trails to visit stations to touch fur, listen to birds, draw wildlife, sit on benches to scan the water, or paint the view. American Sign Language and Spanish interpreters will be on site. More info. | Day by the Water at Del Valle: Saturday, Mar. 22 | Celebrate World Water Day at Del Valle! Find out how water benefits people and wildlife and learn water conservation tips to safeguard water for the future. Stop by the Park District’s Mobile Fish Exhibit, a 1500-gallon aquarium on wheels housing a diverse collection of California freshwater fish. More info. | |
Healthy Habitat in the Plover Protection Zone at Crown Beach | During winter and early spring, visitors to Crown Beach may notice a roped-off area of beach known as the “plover protection zone,” a designated resource protection area for the federally protected western snowy plover in their overwintering habitat site. Every year since 2014, Park District staff and volunteers set up signs and temporary fencing meant to safeguard this species from people and dogs who may encounter them along the beach as they nestle down in the sand. Western snowy plovers typically arrive in mid-October and remain in the area until March or April. As many as 56 plovers have been recorded in the protection zone in recent years, up from the original six plovers recorded in 2014. Interestingly, the plover protection zone has become a popular area for many other species of shorebirds, who have been seen gathering in great numbers during high tides. Please adhere to the rules to protect this threatened species. | Black Diamond Mines: Temporary Closure of Hazel Atlas Mine and Greathouse Visitor Center | |
At Black Diamond Mines, the Greathouse Visitor Center and mines are temporarily closed and all mine tours are canceled until further notice.
While the mines are closed, free drop-in programs are being offered on Saturdays and Sundays every weekend until the mines re-open. On Saturday, Mar. 22 there will be two Somersville Strolls offered (10-11 a.m. and 1-2 p.m.) with American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters.
History Above the Mines: 10-11:30 a.m.
Learn how an ancient world shaped the local landscape and attracted both coal and sand miners to this area. Discover what life was like for immigrant miners and their thriving communities while exploring what pieces of evidence remain. This program will be 1 mile and take place entirely above ground.
Somersville Stroll: 1-2 p.m.
Once a vibrant town, this area now holds reminders of its past. Join us on a 1-mile walk as we use historic photos, maps, and clues on the landscape to piece together the past. Meet at the upper parking lot.
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SUMMER CAMPS, SWIM LESSONS, AND YOUTH PROGRAMS – REGISTRATION BEGINS APR. 1 | |
Financial Aid “Camperships” Available | |
The Regional Parks Foundation provides Camperships (financial aid) to qualifying youth for select summer programs. Families must reside in Alameda or Contra Costa counties. Complete application packets should be submitted at least 14 days prior to the start date of the program, but earlier submission is encouraged. Programs will sell out quickly and a campership does not guarantee a space. An approved Campership must be on file before registering. More info. | |
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Park’n It Day Camp is a traditional summer day camp program designed for kids ages 5-12 years old. Camp takes place Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in various Regional Parks. Park’n It Day Camp features hands-on experiences under the care of our trained recreation leaders, lifeguards, and naturalists.
Campers will learn about park ecology, play games, make art projects, go fishing, hike, swim, and enjoy field trips to other parks. Registration Begins Apr. 1. Information and Application
| Seeking Teens to Become Leaders-in-Training | What is your teen doing this summer? As a Leader-in-Training (LIT), they would spend a whole week in the Regional Parks working with other teens to help lead Park'n It Day Camp for kids! During this action packed week, LITs work with a team of friends and gain valuable job skills, all while having fun in the great outdoors. Interested teens should apply to be interviewed by no later than Apr. 12. Mandatory training on May 17 in Fremont or May 18 in Oakland. This program is for youth ages 13-17. Information and Application | Have you considered teaching your child how to swim, increasing their ability and comfort level in a pool? Are you an adult who wants to learn to swim? Now is the time to sign up for the East Bay Regional Park District's summer swim lessons. The Park District's Swim Program offers inclusive programming with an American Red Cross course format for persons of all abilities. All instruction is conducted with emphasis on personal safety and fun. Registration Begins April 1. More Information & How to Register | |
Summer Lifeguard Programs | |
Bay Adventure Camp (ages 8-12)
Bay Adventure Camp at Crown Beach is a dynamic, inclusive program that packs loads of excitement. Campers learn about water safety, practice boating skills, improve swimming skills, and play traditional camp games. Registration Begins Apr. 1.
Junior Lifeguards (ages 8-12)
The Junior Lifeguard Program provides participants of all abilities with an introduction to water safety/rescue, first aid, and CPR in a fun and challenging environment. Participants enjoy a variety of beach and water activities designed to promote fitness, self-esteem, and teamwork. Registration Begins Apr. 1
Junior Lifeguard Aide (ages 13-15)
Junior Lifeguard Aide Program participants assist the Junior Lifeguard instructors during each of the eight-week training sessions between June and August. Responsibilities range from setting up activities, leading small groups, assisting Junior Lifeguards with rescues or skills, and much more. Registration Begins Apr. 1.
Junior Lifeguard Cadets (ages 14-17)
The Junior Lifeguard Cadet program is geared toward preparing participants for the lifeguard academy and for those looking to become lifeguards. Participants age 15 and older will have the opportunity to earn certification in American Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR, and AED. Cadets must apply, interview, and be accepted into the program. Class information and applications will be available online starting Apr. 1, or email twaespi@ebparks.org to receive an application sooner.
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Regional Parks Botanic Garden Plant Sale: Saturday, Mar. 1 | Don't miss your last opportunity for a little while to pick up native plants at the Regional Parks Botanic Garden. Plant sales will be on hiatus after the Saturday, Mar. 1 sale to prepare for the annual spring sale on Saturday, Apr. 19. More info. | Trout Fishing at Lake Chabot | |
Want to elevate your trout fishing skills? Sign up for intermediate trout fishing at Lake Chabot in Castro Valley and get ready for some fun! All gear is provided. Valid CA fishing license required (age 16+). Registration required. Fee: Adult $25 (non-resident $29), child up to 15 years $21 (non-resident $25).
Trout Fishing Intermediate
Saturday, Mar. 29, 9 a.m. to noon
Perfect for those with basic trout fishing experience, this class explores gear selection, advanced rigging, fish behavior, and bait selection. Content focuses exclusively on trout fishing techniques, rigging methods, and lures.
| ¡Curiosas Cabras! Curious Goats! at Tilden Nature Area: Sundays, Mar. 2 & 16 | |
Who are the sassiest animals on the Little Farm? The goats, of course! Come and meet the Little Farm’s charming goats and take them on a leisurely stroll.
¿Quienes son los animales más traviesos de La Granjita? ¡Las cabras, por supuesto! Ven a conocer nuestras cabras encantadoras y darles un paseo en correa. Drop-in; no registration required.
This bilingual program is offered in Spanish and English.
¡Curiosas Cabras! Curious Goats! at Tilden Nature Area
Sundays, Mar. 2 & 16, 3-4 p.m.
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Marsh Meander at Coyote Hills: Saturday, Mar. 8 | |
Experience the wonders of wetlands on this slow-paced journey through the meandering marsh trails. Observe wildlife, take in the views, and learn about what makes wetlands such important ecosystems. Parking fees apply where charged.
Marsh Meander at Coyote Hills
Saturday, Mar. 8, 9-10:30 a.m.
| Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the Regional Parks | |
What luck! With nature nearby in the Regional Parks, visitors can enjoy all kinds of St. Patrick's Day themed activities.
St. Patrick's Day Treasure Hunt at Del Valle
Saturday, Mar. 15, 10 a.m.
St. Patrick's Day Hike at Dublin Hills
Sunday, Mar. 16, 10 a.m.
St. Patrick’s Snakes at Coyote Hills
Sunday, Mar. 16, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
| Wool That's to Dye For at Ardenwood: Sunday, Mar. 23 | |
Unravel the ancient mysteries of dyeing
yarn. Discover nature’s secrets for transforming wool into a palette of colors and how it can be done at home.
Wool That's to Dye For at Ardenwood
Sunday, Mar. 23, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
| Springtime in the Serpentine at Sunol: Sunday, Mar. 30 | |
California’s state rock, serpentinite, creates interesting soil that helps to highlight native wildflowers. Explore the trails to search for early wildflowers and enjoy wondrous views.
Springtime in the Serpentine at Sunol
Sunday, Mar. 30, 9-11 a.m.
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Connecting Parks to People | | | | |
