Ohlone Park

History and Origins

Ohlone Park is a linear slice of green that runs for five blocks along Hearst Avenue in Berkeley, California - stretching from Sacramento Street to Milvia Street. But this peaceful strip has a rebellious past.

Back in the late 1960s, after BART tunneled its way through Berkeley, locals took one look at the barren construction strip left behind and thought, "We can do better than this." They started guerrilla-planting sod and trees, calling their DIY project the "People's Park Annex" (a nod to Berkeley's activist spirit).

Eventually, the city made nice with BART, leasing the land for the symbolic price of one dollar per year. The park was officially christened on June 7, 1979, honoring the Ohlone people - the original inhabitants of this land long before Berkeley existed.

Features and Amenities

Spread across nearly 10 acres, Ohlone Park packs a surprising amount into its narrow footprint. Kids have multiple play areas designed for different ages, from toddlers to adventurous pre-teens.

The park's generous grassy field transforms into a soccer pitch during season, while a community garden and native plant garden let residents flex their green thumbs. If you're more into breaking a sweat, head to the western end where you can find basketball courts, a tennis court, and a baseball diamond.

And yes, there are portable restrooms available - sometimes the most important amenity of all when you're spending the day outdoors.

Dog Parks and Play Areas

Dog owners, take note: Ohlone Park houses one of America's first dog parks, established back in 1979 when off-leash areas were still a novel concept. The park actually features two separate canine zones - one for the big boys over 30 pounds, and a smaller enclosure for the little guys under 30 pounds.

These areas have become more than places to exercise pets; they're social hubs where locals connect while their four-legged friends romp around.

Playgrounds and Children's Areas

The recently revamped playgrounds here are a hit with families. Little ones can toddle around their own dedicated play structure, dig in the sandpit, or try out the toddler swings.

For older kids, there are wooden climbing structures and a particularly popular giant rope swing that provides that perfect mix of challenge and fun. It's an ideal spot if you've got children of different ages - everyone can find something entertaining at their own level.

Trails and Art

Paved paths running through the park form part of the Ohlone Greenway, making this a go-to route for cyclists, joggers, and those just out for a stroll.

Take some time to appreciate the mural painted by Native American artist Jean Lamarr in the late '90s. Covering a massive concrete vent, it tells the story of the Ohlone people and their connection to this land.

Various paintings across the park highlight the historical presence of the Ohlone tribe in what we now call Berkeley - subtle reminders of the deeper history beneath our feet.

Layout and Design

What makes Ohlone Park interesting is how its stretched-out shape creates distinct zones, each with its own vibe. You can find thoughtfully placed rocks and trees creating natural alcoves well-suited for reading or people-watching.

Benches and picnic tables dot the landscape, especially near the sports areas, giving you plenty of spots to catch your breath or enjoy a sandwich. The open design has made the park a natural venue for community events, outdoor exercise classes, and cultural celebrations honoring Native American heritage.

Community Value

In a city where green space is precious, Ohlone Park provides a linear stretch of greenery where recreation, relaxation, and community come together.

Its location just across from North Berkeley BART station makes it easily accessible, while its stretch along Hearst Avenue connects multiple neighborhoods to this shared green resource. Whether you're a longtime local or just passing through, Ohlone Park offers a break from urban life - an example of what can happen when communities reclaim space.