With beautiful lakeside retreats and peaceful reservoirs, Oakland has some of the best lakes to capture the heart of nature lovers. Discover the top lakes in Oakland and the surrounding areas where the calmness of nature meets the urban charm of Northern California.
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1. Lake Merritt
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Lake Merritt is a 155-acre tidal lagoon located in downtown Oakland. It has beautiful nature and calm walkways that surround the water. People enjoy walking and jogging on it, and there are artificial islands that attract birdwatchers. You can also enjoy kayaking, visiting Children’s Fairyland, or viewing plants at the Gardens at Lake Merritt. The lagoon has a varying depth, so every activity will provide a different experience. Lake Merritt is an urban oasis that offers both peace and activity.
2. Lake Temescal
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Lake Temescal is a small reservoir located in the Oakland Hills. At Lake Temescal, you can relax and get active. Here, you can swim in the open water, or you can relax on the beach. You can also explore the East Bay Regional Park District. When you are done, you can use the changing rooms and showers. However, keep in mind that the swimming season is closed from November to March.
3. Lake Chabot
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Lake Chabot is located in the Oakland area of Alameda county. This man made lake was constructed in 1875 and covers 315 acres. This lake is ideal for the active person. The lake allows running along the shore as well as fishing for stocked trout and catfish. Visitors can engage with the Fitness Zone located in the rain garden, or relax while renting a boat. Lake Chabot also provides picnic and horseshoe playing areas.
4. Lake Anza
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Nestled in the Berkeley Hills, Lake Anza is a fresh-water gem and oasis in Tilden Regional Park. It features spring-fed waters that are perfect for swimming, with a sandy beach for sunbathing. Lake Anza provides a summer escape with lifeguards on duty and the opportunity to enjoy swimming and sunbathing away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
5. Upper San Leandro Reservoir
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The Upper San Leandro Reservoir, located in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, uses an innovative earth filled dam. The East Bay gets its water supply from this reservoir. A beautiful 46 km trail spanning from MacDonald Trail to Rocky Ridge Trail offers many challenges for hikers. Make sure to get a permit before you hit the trail, and be ready to encounter some of the resident cows!
6. San Pablo Reservoir
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Experience the beauty of San Pablo Reservoir. It is located near Orinda and El Sobrante. It is very close to San Pablo Creek. San Pablo Reservoir has activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. There are even picnic areas. The East Bay Municipal Utility District operates this outdoor sanctuary. Other activities include the San Pablo Ridge and Sobrante Ridge, but swimming and paddle boarding are not allowed.
7. Jewel Lake
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Jewel Lake is located in Tilden Regional Park in Northern California. It was created by an earthen dam on Wildcat Creek and is a great example of human ingenuity combined with nature’s beauty. The former reservoir is surrounded by the Berkeley Hills and Sobrante Ridge Hills. Jewel Lake also offers a great view of the hills and is encompassed by wildlife as well as a historic wooden walkway that provides a great stroll.
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