Live Oak Park
Interactive Park Map
About Live Oak Park
A Creekside Retreat
Established in 1914, Live Oak Park is one of North Berkeley's older green spaces, and its history runs deeper than the founding date suggests. Before the land became a public park, it was divided between two private estates, and the grand specimen trees planted in those estate gardens have survived to this day, giving certain corners of the park an almost stately quality that goes beyond what you'd expect from a typical municipal green space.
The star of this 5.52-acre park is Codornices Creek, which winds lazily through stands of native oaks and fragrant California bay laurels. The creek's name comes from the Spanish word for quails - a nod to the California valley quail that were once common across this part of the Bay Area, and a name given by a member of the Peralta family, the ranching dynasty that once controlled the enormous Rancho San Antonio spanning much of what is now the East Bay.
Planning an event? Make a reservation at this park
The gentle hills and open grassy areas make perfect spots to spread out a blanket, crack open a book, or simply watch the clouds drift by.
Play & Recreation Spaces
If you've got kids in tow, there are two different play areas. The fenced tot lot keeps the little ones contained and entertained with age-appropriate equipment, while older children can tackle the more challenging structures in the main playground. Both areas have the classics - swings and slides that never seem to go out of style.
Feeling a bit more active? The lighted basketball courts and tennis courts let you extend your game well into the evening hours. And that spacious grassy knoll? Perfect for everything from frisbee to casual soccer games or even just cartwheels if you're feeling nostalgic.
Park Comforts
Come lunchtime, claim one of the picnic areas complete with stone fireplaces - these charming vintage touches date back to the park's early days. Benches scattered throughout provide perfect perches for people-watching or simply soaking in the surroundings.
Community Connections
Live Oak combines natural elements with community spaces. The community center buzzes with programs during the year, while the Berkeley Art Center brings cultural enrichment right to the park grounds.
Throughout the seasons, the park transforms into a gathering space for local festivals and celebrations. Its location in the heart of a residential area means it's an easy stroll for many neighbors.
All Features & Facilities
Active Recreation
Nature & Wildlife
Water Features & Activities
Visitor Services
Food & Gathering
Upcoming Events (14)
Community events and activities happening nearby
Photo Gallery (tap to enlarge)

Tranquil shaded walking paths in this cozy section of the park

An ivy-covered embankment surrounds the base of a massive tree
Notable Sights (6)
Points of interest, landmarks, and things to see in this park
Monuments (2)
A large stone fireplace built in 1917 in the Arts and Crafts style, one of the oldest surviving features of the park.
A historic stone bridge built in 1915, one of the park's first improvements, spanning Codornices Creek and connecting its two halves.
Memorial (1)
A memorial commemorating the Finnish American Tercentenary.
Buildings (2)
A cultural venue situated on the east side of the Walnut Street Bridge that brings exhibitions and arts programming to the park, enriching its role as a community gathering space.
A community hub built in 1951 on the site of the original Penniman Clubhouse, hosting programs and classes for North Berkeley neighborhoods.
Viewpoint (1)
A natural creek winding through the park beneath native oaks and bay laurels, named from the Spanish word for quails once common in the area.
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Top Restaurants Near Live Oak Park
Cha-Ya
1686 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94709
Vegetarian Japanese restaurant serving creative meatless sushi, salads, and traditional dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Party Sushi
1776 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94709
Casual sushi restaurant serving fresh specialty rolls, classic Japanese dishes, and affordable bento boxes.
Tsuruya
1926 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704
Family-owned ramen shop serving flavorful tonkotsu and specialty broths with tender meat and quality toppings.
The Noodle Thai Restaurant
1936 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704
Affordable Thai restaurant serving flavorful traditional dishes with quick service and late-night hours.
Tane Vegan Izakaya
1956 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704
Creative vegan izakaya serving innovative plant-based sushi rolls and Japanese dishes with impressive flavor and presentation.
Sizzling Lunch Berkeley
1987 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704
A Japanese restaurant serving hearty rice dishes and hot plates with fast, friendly service.
Top Hotels Near Live Oak Park
SenS Hotel
1538 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94709
No-frills accommodations featuring comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and complimentary WiFi access.






